How much does it cost to replace a water pump in a 2006 Honda Ridgeline?
The typical all-in cost is about $600 to $1,000, including parts and labor, and it is usually performed as part of a timing belt service that includes the water pump.
Replacing the water pump on a 2006 Ridgeline is a maintenance task tied to the engine’s timing belt. Because the pump is driven by the belt, shops commonly bundle the pump replacement with a timing belt kit, which also includes tensioners and seals. Prices can vary by region, shop, and any additional parts or repairs discovered during the job. The Ridgeline’s 3.5-liter V6 generally has a timing belt interval around 105,000 miles, but you should confirm the exact interval in your owner’s manual.
Cost breakdown for a 2006 Ridgeline water pump replacement
Costs typically break down into parts and labor, with the timing belt kit commonly included. The figures below reflect typical U.S. prices for 2024–2025 and assume replacement as part of a timing belt service on the 3.5-liter V6 engine.
- Parts: Water pump about $50–$180; timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler) $100–$350; gaskets/seals $20–$60; coolant $8–$25; thermostat (optional) $25–$60.
- Labor: 3–5 hours at roughly $75–$125 per hour, equating to about $225–$625.
Conclusion: When you factor parts and labor, most Ridgeline owners see an all-in bill in the ballpark of $500 to $1,000, with higher prices in busy metro areas or if the shop uncovers additional issues that require repair.
What affects the final price
Several factors can push the price higher or lower. Understanding these helps you get an accurate estimate before the work begins.
- Geographic location and local labor rates, which can vary significantly between regions and cities.
- Whether the water pump is being replaced as part of a full timing belt kit (typical) versus a separate, stand-alone pump replacement (often more or less expensive depending on the shop’s policy).
- Additional components or services, such as a coolant flush, new thermostat, extra gaskets, or tensioner replacement, which add to the cost.
- Vehicle condition and potential extra labor if the engine timing marks require re-alignment or if pre-existing damage is found.
- Shop type (dealer vs. independent mechanic) and whether a warranty is included with the service.
Concluding: Plan for a price range that accommodates regional rates, the inclusion of a timing belt kit, and any optional components or warranty considerations.
What the work involves and what to expect during the service
In most cases, technicians will:
- Drain the coolant and remove components that shield the timing belt path.
- Release tension on the timing belt, remove the belt, and inspect timing marks for proper alignment.
- Replace the water pump, and typically replace the timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler, seals) and refill coolant.
- Recheck timing alignment, perform a coolant leak check, and run the engine to ensure proper operation.
Timeframe: Most water pump/timing belt service jobs take about 3 to 6 hours, depending on shop efficiency and any complications. It’s common for shops to offer a multi-year warranty on part and labor when the full kit is replaced.
Summary
For a 2006 Honda Ridgeline, replacing the water pump is typically done as part of a timing belt service and costs roughly $500 to $1,000 in typical conditions, with broader ranges in higher-cost regions or when additional repairs are required. Always obtain multiple quotes, verify that the estimate includes the timing belt kit, and ask about coolant, thermostat, and warranty details to avoid surprises.
