Should I plan on replacing my water pump while changing the timing belt? The Volvo dealer said that it isn't a common failure and didn't suggest it. Other cars i have owned it is a "while you are at it" job since the T-belt has to be removed to replace the water pump. Any thoughts? BTW it is a 2004 S60 2.5T FWD.

 

Mileage? If you have one of those magical 150K timing belt Cal. emission cars, I'd certainly do it as a water pump is an item that will eventually fail. If, on the other hand, you're planning a 60K belt replacement now and another in 60K, you're probably safe not doing it. If you're approaching 120K, do it. That way you only pay once for labor. Think about the belt tensioner, too. For the same reason.

 

thanks for your response. It has 113k on the clock and it has never been done. The coolant hasn't been flushed either. Is the thermostat somewhere that is easy to get to and should that be changed too since teh coolant will be drained?

I am putting new tires on this week and flushing the brake fluid (original). I assume it uses DOT4 or better, right? I use ATE in my VW and BMW so i was planning to do the same in the Volvo.