A water pump is responsible for moving coolant throughout your vehicle's cooling system. The coolant circulates through the engine to keep it at a consistent temperature and then travels to the radiator, where it is cooled down before being circulated back through the engine again. If the water pump fails, it can cause a number of problems with your vehicle. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate you have a failing water pump.
1. Leaking coolant
One of the most common signs that your water pump is starting to fail is leaking coolant. Coolant leaks can occur for a number of reasons, but one of the most common is a bad water pump. If you notice coolant leaking from your vehicle, especially if it is coming from the front or back of the engine, it's a good idea to have your water pump checked out by a mechanic.
2. Overheating engine
Another common symptom of a failing water pump is an overheating engine. If the water pump is not circulating coolant properly, it can cause the engine to overheat. This can lead to serious engine damage if not fixed in a timely manner, so it's important to keep an eye on your vehicle's temperature gauge and keep an eye out for any warning signs of overheating.
3. Coolant leaks into the oil
If you notice that your coolant level is dropping quickly or that there is coolant leaking from your vehicle, it could be a sign that the water pump is failing. When the water pump fails, it can cause coolant to leak into the oil, which can lead to engine problems. If you notice this happening, it's important to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible.
4. Engine noise
Another symptom of a failing water pump is engine noise. If you hear a squealing noise coming from the front of your engine, it could be an indication that the water pump is starting to fail. This noise is usually caused by a loose or damaged pulley that the water pump uses to circulate coolant. If you hear this noise, it's important to have your vehicle checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
If you need water pump repair, we invite you to bring your vehicle to South Denver Automotive today!