It's a known problem but considering the number of cars using this engine it's relatively a low number, percentage wise. The technical bulletin simply gives information on how to inspect the coolant pump for coolant leakage (and what is considered allowable leakage) from the shaft seal in the event that there has been a loss of coolant and no other sources of coolant leaks have been found.
The important thing is to check and monitor the coolant level regularly, just as with any car. It's in your Owner's Manual.
Promptly investigating any new/odd "rotating" noises from under the hood is also important, as well.
I also have a low mileage 2011 that has now been almost three years in service and it shows no signs of losing any coolant at all.

 

Just put my car in for 60k service; along with some other odds and ends - free water pump replacement (under CPO extended warranty.) That lightens the bill a touch.. and glad to see that my dealership caught it.

 

my coolant reservoir was empty so i took her in to the dealership, they said the waterpump is leaking and quoted around 950$ tax in (canadian) for 4.5hours work (around 500$) + waterpump (256$) + belt (74$) + coolant flush (140$), i think its pretty reasonable and was expecting it to happen anytime now, it's a 2007 with about 85k miles. They also gave me a 2016 IS300, she's a beast!

 

I only hear people mentioning getting their water pump on their 2007 replaced here, anyone had to replace their 2008+ models?

 

I had my water pump replaced on my ES. I took it to a friend who has his own shop. I paid for the water pump, got it wholesale and it took the guy 4 hours to replace. He only charged me $200 for labor, but I'm sure no one will pay that little. In all total, it cost me $400. It's a tight space between the tire and and engine, but not an all day job though.

 

Lets go the other way - who can beat 175K on a water pump? (Wife's 07 ES350.)

 

I change mine at 152k miles as prevention, along with all the pulleys, thermostat and the alternator since the motor has to be lifted.

total cost was 1300.00 can at my mechanic, now i have peace of mind for another 150k.

Also considering adding additives to the fuel to clean the pistons from carbon build-up since my mechanic does hear some clapping. Notice a difference right away after adding lucas upper cylinder cleaner.

The ES is a beast.

 

In what condition was the old pump?

 

My mechanic told me that it is still good, no leaking. He notice that all my pulleys have a little play, that may break or damage my serpentine belt in the long run, so everything was replaced for safe measures.

 

*Prays this is my case...*