Common Water Pump Problems For The Toyota Tacoma

If you have a Toyota Tacoma, chances are you’ll experience issues with the water pump at some point. Here’s a list of symptoms related to water pump failure on the Tacoma, as well as some diagnostic tips, repair info, recommended parts, and background information.

Toyota Tacoma Water Pump Failure Symptoms

• Low coolant tank
• Coolant leak
• Overheating engine
• Engine noise
• Serpentine belt wear

Water Pump Diagnosis and Repair Tips

Coolant leaking from the shaft seal is usually an early sign of water pump failure. The shaft seal can leak from age, overheating, or bearing failure. Water pump noise is caused by bearing wear or the impeller striking the housing after bearing failure. The following conditions can cause water pump failure, corrosion, or other cooling system damage:

• Using the wrong type of coolant
• An incorrect ratio of the coolant and water mixture
• Using tap water instead of distilled water in the coolant mixture
• Cooling system overheating
• Cooling system restrictions or cavitation
• Cooling system leaks
• Loose drive belt or tensioner

It’s best to address water pump problems (or other cooling system issues) at the first sign of leakage or noise. Proper cooling system maintenance goes a long way toward water pump longevity.

Recommended Replacement Water Pumps

Listed below are the recommended replacement water pumps available for Toyota Tacoma

Why Do Toyota Tacomas Have Water Pump Problems?

A common problem with Toyota Tacoma water pumps is coolant leaking excessively from the weep hole. Other problems are common to water pumps with either years of age or high mileage. These include coolant leaking at the shaft seal or noises caused by a worn water pump bearing. Water pump life can also be affected by other cooling system problems or issues with the drive belt. Always perform scheduled maintenance on the cooling system to ensure long water pump life. Inspect the serpentine drive belt at each oil change.

Learn more about water pumps with our comprehensive guide here. 

GMB Offers Quality Parts You Can Trust

• We have been an industry-leading OEM and Aftermarket automotive parts manufacturer since 1943.
• We have locations on both the east and west US coasts and global locations in Asia and Europe.
• If you have any questions about our products, don’t hesitate to contact us.