Water Pump Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

When the water pump is removed, the engine coolant may flow through the cylinder block and penetrate the oil pan. To prevent the engine coolant from accumulating in the oil pan, remove the oil pan drain plug before removing the water pump.

Remove the oil pan drain plug.
To prevent engine coolant from penetrating the oil pan, line the cylinder block with plastic sheeting as shown in the figure before removing the water pump.

Fig 1: Identifying Water Pump With Plastic Sheeting
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.