How much does it cost to replace the air injection pump on a Toyota Tundra?
Typically, replacing the air injection pump on a Toyota Tundra costs about $500 to $900, though prices can range from roughly $300 to $1,200 depending on parts and labor.
The air injection pump is part of the secondary air injection system, which helps reduce emissions by delivering extra air to the exhaust. When the pump fails, you may see a Check Engine Light, reduced engine performance, or higher emissions. Replacement requires removing other components to access the pump and may involve replacing related seals, hoses, or belts that wear out with age.
What is the air injection pump and why it matters
The air injection pump, sometimes called the secondary air pump, is driven by the engine’s belt system and pushes fresh air into the exhaust stream to help burn off pollutants during cold starts. On a Toyota Tundra, a failing pump can trigger emissions-related fault codes and fail an emissions test. Replacing the pump restores proper operation of the secondary air system and helps keep the vehicle compliant with emissions standards.
Cost breakdown
The following breakdown outlines the main cost drivers you should consider when budgeting for a replacement.
- Parts cost: The pump itself and any necessary hardware. Aftermarket pumps are usually cheaper than Toyota OEM units. Plan for roughly $120–$450 for aftermarket parts, and $350–$750 for genuine OEM parts from a dealer.
- Labor cost: Time spent diagnosing, accessing the pump, and installing the new unit. Labor rates vary by region and shop, but you can expect about 2 to 4 hours of labor, or roughly $180–$600 depending on local rates.
- Additional costs and services: Diagnostic fees if the issue isn’t clearly identified, and potential costs for related components such as hoses, clamps, a check valve, or a timing belt/serpentine belt if wear is present. Some shops include small ancillary items in the total, while others itemize them separately.
In summary, most buyers should budget for a total in the mid-hundreds to the low-thousands, with typical shop bills commonly landing around $500 to $900 for a straightforward pump replacement using aftermarket parts. Using OEM parts from a dealer and encountering additional needed components can push the total toward the higher end of the range.
Regional and model-year variation
Prices can differ based on model year, engine configuration, and where you have the work performed. Factors that influence the final cost include:
- Model year and AIP design: Newer Tundra generations may have different pump designs or mounting arrangements that affect labor time and part pricing.
- Shop type and location: Dealer service departments typically charge higher labor rates than independent shops, while some regions have higher parts costs.
- Warranty and recall coverage: If the pump is covered under a manufacturer warranty or a specific recall, costs could be reduced or eliminated.
Always get a written estimate that itemizes parts and labor, and confirm whether diagnostic fees are included or waived with the repair.
DIY considerations
For mechanically inclined owners, there may be the possibility of reducing costs by handling the replacement themselves. Access to the pump can vary by model year, and some engines require substantial disassembly to reach the unit. If you lack experience with emissions-related components or timing belt/serpentine belt work, professional installation is usually recommended to ensure proper function and compliance with emissions standards.
Summary
Replacing the air injection pump on a Toyota Tundra is a repair that most owners can anticipate in the medium hundreds of dollars, with total costs typically ranging from about $300 to $1,200 depending on parts choice, labor rates, and any additional work required. Planning for a ballpark of $500 to $900 covers many common scenarios, but always seek a detailed estimate tailored to your vehicle’s year, engine, and local labor market.
What are the symptoms of a secondary air injection pump failure in tundra?
The failed secondary air injection pump can cause fluctuation in power. For instance, in one minute your vehicle is performing well and in the other minute, you may face a drop in revs. Thus, you need to replace the pump to avoid continuous engine stalls and ensure a smooth drive.
Is it necessary to change a tundra air injection pump?
Under normal conditions and vehicle life, you should not expect to replace an Air Pump.
What is the recall on the Tundra secondary air injection pump?
There is a Toyota Tundra Limited Service Campaign (LSC) for certain 2012-2013 model years concerning the secondary air injection pump. The issue is a software problem in the Engine Control Module (ECM) that can cause the pump to fail under specific conditions, leading to "Fail-Safe" or "Limp-Home" mode which reduces speed. The remedy involves an ECM software update and, if necessary, replacement of a failed air pump assembly, all at no cost to the owner.
What you should know
- Vehicles affected: The campaign is for certain 2012-2013 model year Tundra vehicles equipped with the 5.7L gasoline or 5.7L Flex Fuel engines.
- The problem: The Engine Control Module (ECM) calibration may lead to the failure of the air injection pump under certain environmental conditions.
- The symptom: If the pump fails, the vehicle may enter "Fail-Safe" or "Limp-Home" mode, which significantly limits the vehicle's speed and power.
- The solution: An authorized Toyota dealer will perform a free software update on the ECM. If the pump has already failed, it will also be replaced for free.
- How to get service: You must take your vehicle to an authorized Toyota dealer for the free service.
- Campaign end date: This Limited Service Campaign was set to be available until May 31, 2016.
- Reimbursement: If you have already paid for a repair due to a warrantable condition related to this issue, you may be eligible for reimbursement by mailing a copy of the repair order, proof of payment, and proof of ownership to the address provided in the campaign documents, available via the NHTSA link.
What does the air injection pump do on a Toyota Tundra?
It serves to inject fresh air into the exhaust stream, aiding in the reduction of harmful emissions produced by the vehicle. This part operates by drawing in ambient air, pressurizing it, and then injecting it into the exhaust stream where it helps burn off excess hydrocarbons.
