Do I need to change the cambelt if the water pump needs changing on my Fiesta 1.4 zetec 2004 reg?

I was told by ford that my water pump may be the noise I hear when the car engine is warm and then a chugging/squealing noise starts in that area- only in slow traffic or when the car is at a stand still. I have no leaking and the temp is in normal but the noise drives me crazy and is probably a warning. Ford reckons they need to take cambelt off to change the water pump?is this correct? also how much should I expect to pay to have the water pump and cambelt done? Ford quoted 拢520!!! HELPPPPPP!!Do I need to change the cambelt if the water pump needs changing on my Fiesta 1.4 zetec 2004 reg?
Hello. to answer your question, I would certainly get the belt changed, at the same time as you change the water-pump, as you need to remove the belt anyway, as it is a good thing to have a nice reliable new belt on there, especially if you are unsure of its condition.



拢520 sounds very steep indeed, I would expect that kind of price to change a head gasket. I would look into changing it yourself. I had a Escort GTI which has the 1.8 silver-top zetec engine in it, and with some help you can easily change the timing belt on your driveway. make sure you purchase the cam locking kit, but this is in essence a 5mm bit of steel that will set u back about 拢5 from motorserv.



If your not mechanically minded, then I would at the very least get it checked at a garage, don't tell them to change anything until you are 100% sure what the problem is. Maybe you have some friends who tinker with cars, perhaps they can assist you cheaper than a garage?



But yes, if you are going to the lengths to remove the pump and replace it, you should really renew the timing belt too, as you need to take it off to gain access to the pump.





Also if its a squeeling noise, it may be the alternator belt slipping.Do I need to change the cambelt if the water pump needs changing on my Fiesta 1.4 zetec 2004 reg?
Yes they are correct and it would be false economy not to do the cambelt while it is all apart. It could be, as happened to me once, the pump has damaged the old belt anyway.



Get a quote from a local independent, none franchised dealer, and the cost could be half of what a Ford dealer wants.



You really do have to get the belt done.
I'd agree it makes sense to change the belt anyway, then you know it's been done. I'd also change the tensioner and other belt(s) while you're at it. Maybe unnecessary but you'll then have the confidence that everything at that end of the engine is new. I would, though, go to at least one other garage for an opinion and a quote.
Yes change that belt 250.00 U.S. is about average cost
the cam belt should be changed at intervals, unless they just recommend it is done while its in being worked at, and its due... there is no reason to change it....



Unless you are confusing the drive belt (auxilliary) which drives the water pump, power steering pump etc, that is most likely what is making noise and should be changed.