Land Rover Repair: Water Pump, mass air flow meter, mass air flow

Question
Hi John,

Last month (Dec 20) I asked you a question about the ACE pump on my Disco. In that email I mentioned all the parts replaced as a result of a previous catastrophic engine failure and super overheating incident that had occurred in Dec of 2003 and wanted to know if the failing ACE pump or mass air flow meter I had replaced subsequently could have been caused by that engine failure and overheating. You said "no" to the ACE pump but "possibly" on the mass air flow meter. Well I complained to the dealership about the mass air flow meter repair and they gave me a $250 credit toward future repair orders. THANKS! But one week after replacing the ACE pump, the water pump went out while out of town. I had it replaced by a mechanic in the town I was in. Now I pose the same question about the water pump. It was not replaced at the time of the catastrophic engine failure (dealership said it was working when they cranked the Disco after engine repair and they don't replace parts that work), but now that it has failed, could that have been a problem waiting to happen because of the engine failure and resulting super overheating?  

Answer
Hi Marcia,

happy New Year!

I'm glad you were able to recoup some of the cost of repair on your Disco.

Sad news about the water pump though.  It's rare that the water pump should fail but it is possible.  Normally, those pumps that are mounted on the engine (water, steering, AC) are quite hardy and can take some abuse from overheated engines.  Sensors are another matter.

Its quite possible that your water pump failed on its own.  If you want to replace the unit, consider searching online at some reputable salvage yards.  I'm sure you'll find an excellent replacement at a fraction of the dealer (OEM) price.

Use this site:  www.car-part.com  it will take you to sites that have your vehicle and the parts you need.  Purchase the part and then have a local mechanic install the pump.  I'm sure LR would even install it for you, if you insisted.  My dealer has done this for me on certain items.  

Best of luck,

JohnMc