Mine's a 2000 1.8T. I think it is directly effected by the TB

Well, if that's the case...
 

I would check the lower timing belt cover for signs of coolant (white crusty stuff) at each oil change.

If you every hear a bad bearing type noise from the front of the engine, stop driving it.

If you start to see coolant temps climbing past high noon, and you have verified the fans are working, start getting concerned.

If any of the three symptoms above presents itself, you may need to consider replacing the water pump and thermostat. If none of those symptoms presents itself...just keep driving.

Awesome. Much thanks, RKA

Been there, done that, went back a year later to replace water pump....
 

Took my '97 1.8t to Gossett Motors for timing belt/tensioner replacement at about 50k (too many horror stories about failed tensioners).

Asked to have water pump replaced at the same time.

Service manager called me and said water pump was fine and recomended against replacement. O.K., fine.

About a year later I start getting a squeaking noise at idle and take car to dealer. Service manager says the water pump is bad. I reminded him that I wanted the water pump replaced when TB was done. He was cool about it so paid for pump and one hour of labor, even though it took much longer.


Robert

Robert

I changed TB @ 93K and did not do my Water pump. Every WP that I have seen fail has leaked first
 

(Fords,Chevys)I've personally never seen one seized. Of course that does not mean that it does not happen, but I prefer go off of personal experience not heresay. I have always had great luck with Audi's. I took an old 100 to 210K on the original Water pump ... Every other Audi (4K, 5K, 90, 100, A4) I've owned went beyond 125K without major issue. Usually bulbs, brakes, tires, battery, and the TB @ 90K.

I'd venture this is the one of the more common WP failures-->
 

<b>Cracked impeller housing</b>
<img src="http://images4.fotki.com/v43/photos/4/48510/434181/PA280017-vi.jpg">

<img src="http://images4.fotki.com/v42/photos/4/48510/434181/PA280016-vi.jpg">

I agree though, a seized pump isn't that common. Good luck.

Andy