We have a van with 115,000 miles and the dealership suggested we replace the timing belt and water pump. We will not be using the dealership but a mechanic we have.
Should or should we not replace the water pump at this time?
Is there anything else we should have him replace while he is doing this? We are going on a vacation this summer - 13 hour one way drive.
Thanks
You should also have the drive belts/serpentine belt replaced, along with all belt tensioners.
You didn’t say what kind of van you drive. If the water pump is driven by the timing belt it makes sense to replace the pump along with the belt. There may be tensioner which may need replacement, too.
In addition to the water pump, I suggest a new thermostat and radiator cap. This, along with the fresh coolant that will be installed should put your cooling system in tip-top shape.
This is also a good time to replace the accessory drive belts (power steering, alternator, AC compressor) or serpentine belt.
When was the last time the transmission fluid was replaced?
Water pump not a bad idea. However I would simply ask how much to change it a latter date (without timing belt) and then decide.
Personally I forgo the extras and “chance it”. I just have the timing belt changed.
Toyota Sienna