I bought a used 2005 Camry in the fall of 2007. I have since put 2 new waterpumps on the car and today it is making the same noise AGAIN that always leads to replacing the waterpump. The last time I had it replaced, which was just around a year ago, I tried to get the dealer to understand that IMO there was something else wrong that would be causing my waterpumps to continually fail. They didn't agree and replaced it and sent me on my way. So far all have been coverd by warranty and this next one should be as well since I am still under my mileage, but I don't want to have to put another one on next year when I know the warranty will be gone. I bought a Toyota because I wanted to drive this vehicle until the wheels fall off, looks like I might have made a bad choice. Anyone got any ideas or having the same issue?

 

V6 or 4 cylinder engine?

 

It is a 4 cylinder.

 

Might also check at the Toyotanation website.

This engine was prone to premature water pump failure but later pumps were supposed to fix things.

If noise might be bearing failure. Bearing failure can be caused by the drive belt being too tight, a failed seal due to corrosion (lack of anti-freeze changes). Both not likely with a dealer repair.

This leaves the pump which you can't do much about.

Suggest if possible have another dealer do the work just in case it is some strange installation issue.

Also ask what part of the pump failed, seal, bearing, seal then bearing, etc.

 

Just replaced the water pump on my '94 V-6 Camry. Sure glad it wasn't a head gasket. Parts alone cost me over $450 at a discount.

The belt that drives the pump is going to be very tight. It also drives Alternator. If you are hearing noise, you might try a can of water pump lubricant added to your radiator.

In some regions water can be very reactive with metal engine components. The pump impeller is a soft cast metal. Did you visually inspect the bad pumps since removed? Was the impeller heavily pitted?

If you see that, the lubricant in the coolant might help. I would go so far as to drain all water and replace with distilled water. The folks with Ferrari's take such precautions.

 

I took it to a different dealer this time, just got it back. They pressurized the system, found no leaks, topped of the coolant and guess what..............the noise is gone. We will see if it lasts and if it does, wow.......why was the water pump replaced the 2 times prior? Not that i am out any money but it still makes you wonder.