Does this sound like a failing water pump?

[paris]

Hi, decided to track a noise coming from the engine, near the camshaft belt / water pump area. It is rpm depended and sounds like a rubbing sound between metals.

Timing belt with tensioner was replaced 3 years ago / 20000km, water pump was replaced 9 years ago.

What do you think? If you carefully listen at 00:36 it is more intense.

Link:

[DanTheMannn]

pump should always be replaced with belt, i'd change it anyway bud!

[BHadley]

Sounds like my old m40 318i...... So yep I'd say water pump, cured my noise and a nine year old pump is going to be tired. Easy enough to change once the fan blades are off, don't be surprised if the old pump has to broken with a hammer if its stubborn to remove

[paris]

Thanks for the replies! Will go ahead and replace the WP, for some odd reason since 1989 all of them have been failing between July/August

[paris]

Managed to get it out, somehow

Bearings were shot, this is the 4th or 5th WP

[BHadley]

Wow, quite worn! Has the noise gone with the new pump on?

[paris]

Yes it's gone, engine's quiet again. This one had a lot of play, I'm surprised it didn't ruin the fan / belts.