1998 Honda Civic Timing belt and Water Pump.

SHADOW98

MEMBER
1998 HONDA CIVIC
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
240,000 MILES

Im going to change my timing belt for the second time in the next few weeks. I've gotten a few estimates and all of them suggest or include changing my water pump.
I changed my water pump the last time I changed my timing belt at 130,000K.
Is it really necessary to change this part when I change my timing belt? I've been told they do this as a precausionary measure, but I don't want to spend $125.00 on this part if I don't have too.
Also if I don't change it, would my current water pump last me till my next timing belt change.

Thank you in advance for your response.

1 Reply

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

Its not necessary unless the pump is showing signs of failing (leaking coolant, making noises etc.). There is no way to tell for sure how long a pump is going to last. If the pump only has 110k on it now because of replacing then I would, and can only, guess that it should last til next timing belt interval. If you have the money now and don't need it for anything else then go ahead and replace it. If you don't really have the money to spend then you should just wait.