I'm looking for some advice. My 2008 Lexus Rx350 AWD water Pump started leaking. This my second Toyota product with this engine where the water pump gave out before 60K miles, the first being on a Lexus ES350 I used to own. I know these were a common problem on these engines across Toyota/ Lexus lines.
Should I replace the thermostat while at it? Does the thermostat come off during this repair? If so, I'm thinking of replacing it. If it doesn't need to come off, I'm thinking of keeping the old one on as it shows no signs of problems and aren't known for any issues. Is my logic correct? Also, if I do replace, I would buy the Toyota OEM or the Aisin thermostat. Some sellers are selling these with the gasket seal while others aren't. Do I need the new gasket (Toyota part # 90916-03075).
In terms of the water pump, I was thinking, the Aisin pump, maybe a Beck/Arnley even though it's a hit and miss on what will arrive or the Airtex (Part # AW6047) which Rockauto is selling for $34.99. This is the least expensive pump they sell but looking at previous threads, it seems it's one of the preferred brands on here. Why is it half the cost of the Aisin or Beck/Arnley?
I will also need to purchase Coolant. How many jugs do I need? I know Zerex and Pentosin sells the equivalent. Should I consider it or stick to the Toyota OEM?
I'll probably replace the serpentine belt also if it shows signs of cracking. I don't intend to keep this car long so I don't want to throw many parts at it but at the same time don't want the cheapest route like the Duralast line from Autozone.
I know these are notorious for spitting oil out of the VVT-i oil cooler line also which I will have the mechanic check while under the car. Lexus will cover it free of charge under their campaign until April 30th according to the service advisor I've called at Lexus.
Most shops charge anywhere between $1000-$1500 to replace the water pump with dealers being at the top of that range. I found a mechanic that will do it for $200 with my supplied parts. He worked at Lexus for sometime before going on his own so he knows these vehicles. I assume $200 is a great price for labor considering most shops want to charge you 5 hours of labor for this job.
Any other things to watch out for?
Thanks guys!
Should I replace the thermostat while at it? Does the thermostat come off during this repair? If so, I'm thinking of replacing it. If it doesn't need to come off, I'm thinking of keeping the old one on as it shows no signs of problems and aren't known for any issues. Is my logic correct? Also, if I do replace, I would buy the Toyota OEM or the Aisin thermostat. Some sellers are selling these with the gasket seal while others aren't. Do I need the new gasket (Toyota part # 90916-03075).
In terms of the water pump, I was thinking, the Aisin pump, maybe a Beck/Arnley even though it's a hit and miss on what will arrive or the Airtex (Part # AW6047) which Rockauto is selling for $34.99. This is the least expensive pump they sell but looking at previous threads, it seems it's one of the preferred brands on here. Why is it half the cost of the Aisin or Beck/Arnley?
I will also need to purchase Coolant. How many jugs do I need? I know Zerex and Pentosin sells the equivalent. Should I consider it or stick to the Toyota OEM?
I'll probably replace the serpentine belt also if it shows signs of cracking. I don't intend to keep this car long so I don't want to throw many parts at it but at the same time don't want the cheapest route like the Duralast line from Autozone.
I know these are notorious for spitting oil out of the VVT-i oil cooler line also which I will have the mechanic check while under the car. Lexus will cover it free of charge under their campaign until April 30th according to the service advisor I've called at Lexus.
Most shops charge anywhere between $1000-$1500 to replace the water pump with dealers being at the top of that range. I found a mechanic that will do it for $200 with my supplied parts. He worked at Lexus for sometime before going on his own so he knows these vehicles. I assume $200 is a great price for labor considering most shops want to charge you 5 hours of labor for this job.
Any other things to watch out for?
Thanks guys!
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