i'm fearing it's the issue. i can get the pump brand new for dirt cheap so the cost of the pump isn't bothering me. i don't want to, nor can i afford to, pay a mechanic at the moment. is replacing the water pump difficult? for what it's worth this would be the biggest project i would have done.

 

forgot to mention it's a stock d16y8

 

The most difficult part of the job is removing the crank pulley bolt. This requires two breaker bars, the special hex tool, and a 3-foot metal pipe extension. Alternatively, a powerful impact wrench will also work, if one is available to you.

Hex tool:

http://www.amazon.com/Alltrade-64879...0085561&sr=8-1