Your car, truck, or SUV’s water pump pushes coolant through the motor to prevent your engine from overheating. Coolant is drawn from the radiator and circulated through the engine to trap heat. The coolant is then pushed back into the radiator where it is cooled by the cooling system fan and outside air. If the water pump fails, the coolant stops circulating, which is why Stringer Auto Repair, LLC, warns you should look for the following five signs of a dying water pump.
Leaking Coolant
A coolant leak coming from the front and center is probably coming from the water pump. The water pump has numerous gaskets and seals and, over time, these components can harden and crack. Once they do, the water pump will leak coolant onto your garage floor. Coolant is usually green or red, so check the color to help you identify the fluid.
Rust and Corrosion
Age doesn’t work in the water pump’s favor, either, when it comes to rust and corrosion. Coolant leaves deposits, especially if you’re using the wrong coolant in your car, truck, or SUV. These deposits buildup and rust. The rust corrodes the pump and causes leaks. It can also break the pressure cap’s seal, which will leak coolant out the top.
Whining Noises
If you hear whining sounds coming from the front part of your vehicle’s engine, it could be the water pump pulley belt. If the belt is too loose, it will whine, screech, or buzz. It isn’t the belt that’s the trouble, however. It’s usually worn water pump assembly bearings that loosen the pulley and this is what causes the noise.
Overheating Engine
As discussed in the introduction, if the water pump is not circulating coolant through the engine, your vehicle’s engine will overheat. It’s important to fix the problem right away. Otherwise, you could cause serious damage to the cylinders, head gaskets, and pistons. You don’t want to know how much it would cost to fix those problems.
Radiator Steam
Finally, your radiator should never steam. You should never see steam coming out from underneath the front of your hood. If you do, pull over to safety immediately and turn off the car, truck, or SUV. Steam means your vehicle is overheating and, as discussed above, overheating can cause expensive and unnecessary engine damage.
Visit us at Stringer Auto Repair, LLC, in Johnstown, OH, if your automobile is running too hot. Set up an appointment for quicker service by calling us today. We’d be happy to inspect your pump.
