tawm

My late mom's 2007 ES 350 (still with less than 20k miles!) was always garaged, but SAT for two years until 2018. During this time while the car was not being driven, I turned over the engine and let it run for awhile every month of two. We've been driving the car regularly (3000 mi/yr in town) since summer 2018, and it runs well. However, the dealer noticed the water pump shows crust, indicating the seal is seeping, but not dripping. Presumably, the seal dried out while the car mostly sat in the garage. This has been the case for over a year, and has not worsened. Coolant level appears fine; no strange (apparent) noises from the pump. No drips on the ground.

Is this risk worth just watching vs. a costly pre-emptive water pump repair? I can't handle major maintenance myself, and don't have a good independent mechanic nearby (Stamford, CT). Have been going to the local dealer for oil changes, check ups and airbag recall.

My inclination is to just keep an eye on it, and to NOT fix a stable seepage on this creampuff ES. However, any comments from those more experienced with this model would be much appreciated. Thanks.

nevernu

have a look at this

tawm

Thank you very much for sharing that Service Bulletin - very helpful! The coolant crust appeared to be dry, so I'll just keep an eye on it. On the other hand, are there any typical symptoms of a slowly-failing water pump -- specific noises?

mrsteve7

If water pump bearing play is causing the leak, you may hear an occasional noise (e.g. squeak or squeal) coming from the water pump that will intensify, though I don't think this is your issue.

Keep an eye on the coolant level and if that doesn't become a problem the seepage is nothing to be concerned about and you can put this behind you.

nevernu

I had a funny sound while idling/park and it turned out to be a water pump seal


https://www.clublexus.com/forums/es-...terpump-3.html post 38

tawm

Thank you NeverNu and MrSteve7 for your helpful replies and link to other discussions. I'll continue to monitor the coolant level and hope this ES continues on smoothly..... This is a VERY helpful community!

Fillykonk

You simply cannot go wrong buying an ES whether new or a clean, low mileage used one. They are a well-built, comfortable and as reliable an automobile as you will find. I have owned 2014 and now a 2017 ES Luxury and they are the finest automobiles I have ever owned. Due to its low mileage I hope to buy the 2017 when the lease is up early next year. Just do your homework on whatever vehicle you choose to buy. 2017's should be coming off lease as we speak and investing in a CPO might be your best bet. Let us know what you end up with and post pictures!

Wilson2000

Thanks for sharing the TSB Nevernu. It confirms what I have practiced for years. I would add that one should keep an eye on the thermostat and radiator cap which can both fail, causing the the cooling system to over-pressurize, and result in excessive leakage at the water pump seal. I'll normally replace the t-stat and cap when I replace the coolant at 60K intervals.