Inspection After Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Nissan Sentra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Visually check that there is no significant dirt or rust on the water pump body and vane.
Check that there is no play when rotating the vane shaft, and that it turns smoothly when rotated by hand.

Fig 1: Checking Water Pump
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
If necessary, replace the water pump as an assembly.