How to Replace the Water Pump in a Toyota Highlander

The water pump is the heart of the Toyota Highlander's cooling system, circulating the coolant. Make sure to change out a faulty water pump, which can cause the engine to overheat resulting in serious damage.

Instructions

Remove the Water Pump

1

Disconnect the negative cable on the car battery before you begin.

2

Place a drain pan underneath the radiator. When the engine is cool, drain the cooling system from the radiator into the pan.

3

Take out the alternator.

4

Loosen the water pump pulley bolts and take out the water pump pulley.

5

Remove the water pump from the engine.

Install the Water Pump

6

Insert and install the new water pump, tightening the bolts to 80 inch pounds.

7

Reinsert the water pump pulley, making sure to tighten the bolts to 19 foot pounds.

8

Reinstall the vehicle's alternator.

9

Refill the cooling system with coolant to the proper levels. Start the engine and check for leaks when the engine reaches normal operating temperatures.