2005 Renault Clio Water Pump Advice - 16 valve 1.4l Clio 20

KARL_99

MEMBER
2005 RENAULT CLIO

Noises problem
2005 Renault Clio Two Wheel Drive Manual 46000 miles

Hello. Having had my car in for MOT today I was advised that my there is a squeaking noise coming from the engine area. The advice is that this is likely to be the water pump and that it should be replaced with some urgency, as a failed water pump could also cause the timing belt to fail. They go on to advise that if the water pump is to be replaced, that I might as well get the timing belt replaced at the same time since there is not much more labour involved. Can you tell me if this all seems like sound advice. Having had my car serviced just over a month ago and been advised that they believe the very slight noise is likely to be an alternator fault which can be left to develop, and that otherwise the car is absolutely fine and that my car has a chain not a rubber belt in - it's difficult to know who to believe and the suggested work is not cheap. Thanks.

2 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,268 POSTS

First, a bad water pump can cause a noise like a bad bearing, but usuall not a squeaking noise. Also, when the pump goes bad (bearing or seal) they will usually leak. Have you found any coolant on the ground where it is parked?

Based on your description of the noise, I want you to try something. Open the hood, start the engine, and pour a little water on the belts as they are spinning. Does the squealing sound change or stop? Let me know. NOTE: Water will most likely splash at you so protect your eyes and wear old clothes.

Also, if it is determined to be a bad water pump, there should be no additional labor for replacing the timing chain. It needs to be removed regardless.

Let me know about the test, and give me the best description you can of the noise.

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Tuesday, October 13th, 2009 AT 10:12 PM

DAVE H

MECHANIC
13,383 POSTS

Hope you don't mind me adding 2 pence worth !!

Firstly, your clio is definately fitted with a timing BELT, not a chain.

Secondly, some renault models have a problem with the water pump squeaking when first starting to go bad (before a leak develops) as Jacobandnickolas stated this then develops into a bearing grumble/hum and a leak .. do the test suggested on the alternator/power steering belt, if the sound does not go away or change whilst wet, I woud suspect the water pump ... most good mechanics will be able to tell you straight away what is making the noise ..also your car is soon due for a timing belt replacement (60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first) .. and as already stated by Jacobandnickolas if the water pump is being replaced the belt has to be removed anyway so no extra labour charge is due ... just the cost of the belt and tensioner !!

Hope this helps
Dave H