Dealer vs. local shop - engine water pump

Hi everyone,

I would really appreciate some advice, as I am trying to wean myself from my Toyota dealer. I brought my '04 Prius (111K miles) in for an intermediate maintenance, and they told me that my engine water pump and drive belt needed to be replaced because it was leaking coolant.

The Dealer's quote: $487.

I called another dealer, and they quoted me $500, for the water pump alone, not including the drive belt. With the belt, it would be over $600.

Then I took the car this morning to a local auto shop, and they performed a Matco cooling system pressure test; pressure was normal. Upon a visual inspection, they didn't see anything until they jacked the car and saw from underneath a little dried, pink coolant. They also recommended replacing the water pump, although they said the drive belt was fine.

Local shop's quote: $316. $152 parts, $150 labor. When they heard the dealer's quote, they offered to do the drive belt job for free.

My questions are: Is replacement of the engine water pump and drive belt a "dealer only" job, or should most independent auto shops be able to handle it? Am I being penny-wise, pound-foolish by wanting to save money by going to the local shop (thus far I've only dealt with the dealer)? Is the local shop cheaper because maybe they are NOT using Toyota genuine parts?

111K miles, still the original engine water pump. Drive belt replaced at 65K.

Thank you very much in advance, I would appreciate any and all advice!

 

Thank you very much! I'll be sure to confirm with the local auto shop that they'll use SLLC.

This is my first step away from the dealer, so I appreciate the vote of confidence.

 

Ouch! Just talked to the local shop and he's quoting me $124 for the OEM water pump. Called the dealer and was quoted $103.

The local guy also recommended--but said it was strictly optional, might be a good idea--replacing the thermostat. He said it was run $150 parts + $30 labor. Does that sound like a good idea?

Thanks again!

 

Thanks again! I just finished reading previous threads on thermostats and how they basically never fail. My apologies, I should've done a search first.

Good idea on buying the parts online and seeing if my ship will install them. I'll look in to that. Thanks!

 

Thanks for the tip. Well, if it is a pretty easy DIY, then hopefully my mechanic will be able to do it. The extent of my DIY skills only goes as far as replacing air filters!