My 1995 Nissan maxima about 150k miles overheats at idle. And I noticed there was a severe coolant leak coming down off the ac compressor. I thought it was the water pump. However my mechanics told me that the water pump would leak inside the engine. Has the problem occurred with anyone else? Any and all responses would be helpful. Thank you.

 

Your mechanic is an idiot, find a new one. There is a weep hole drilled in the block just behind the timing cover back half, located behind the AC compressor. It designed so so that you don't leak coolant into the oil (and vice versa) and ruin the engine. You need a pump quick. Do not let this Guy touch it.

 

Before replacing the pump, verify that all the coolant hoses and clamps are fine

 

 

+3.

 

If it is coming down by the AC compressor, its not a hose.

However, your advice to check and replace hoses is a good one. Also, probably time for new belts.

I just did the water pump on my 96 last week. Shops quoted me btwn 650-800 before tax.

There is a great series of videos on you tube titled something like 4th gen water pump replacement.