How to Replace the Water Pump of a 2000 Dodge Neon 2.0

Make sure the engine is cold and remove the negative battery cable. Loosen the petcock located on the bottom of the radiator and drain the coolant in a pan.

Remove the right, inner splash shield and accessory drive belts.

Support the engine with a car jack and remove the power steering pump. Remove the upper and lower torque isolator struts and right-side engine mount.

Move the pump/bracket assembly aside and remove the power steering pump bracket bolts. Remove the right engine mount bracket, timing belt and tensioner, camshaft sprocket and the inner (rear) timing belt cover.

Remove the water pump and discard the O-ring. Clean off all residue and adhesives on surfaces.

Install a new O-ring in the groove of the water pump. Hold it in place with some silicone sealant.

Install the water pump and use a pressure tester to check the shaft seal and O-ring for leaks. Pressurize the cooling system to 15 psi and torque the bolt to 105 inch-pounds.

Connect the inner (rear) timing belt cover, camshaft sprocket, timing belt tensioner and timing belt, right engine mount bracket and engine mount, power steering pump, upper and lower torque isolator struts, accessory drive belts and negative battery cable.

Refill the cooling system

Perform the camshaft and crankshaft timing relearn procedure with a DRB scan tool by connecting it to the DLC (datalink connector). It is located under the instrument panel by the steering column. Turn the ignition switch on to access the miscellaneous screen. Select Re Learn Cam/Crank and follow further instructions on screen.

When you replace certain parts of the car, it helps to do a quick diagnostic check and make sure it is all hooked up properly. DRB scan tools are specifically used for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge automobiles to provide necessary diagnostics.