Why Is It Important to Replace My Failing Water Pump?

Typically, water pumps don’t need to be replaced unless there is a clear sign of a leak or the pump completely stops working. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, your water pump might drive by the timing belt and not the accessory drive belt. If this is the case, it’s recommended that you replace the water pump when replacing the belt and vice versa.

Signs Your Water Pump Needs Replacing

Leaking Coolant at the Front Center of Your Vehicle

Your vehicle’s water pump’s construction comprises of several seals and gaskets to help keep the coolant in, and ensure that the required amount of coolant gets to the engine from your radiator. Over extensive use, these seals and gaskets will wear out, break or dry out. When this happens, coolant will begin leaking under the front center of your car, truck or SUV. Contact your local AAMCO Colorado mechanic the moment you spot green or red liquid under your vehicle’s front center.

Screeching Noise from Water Pump Pulley

When your water pump is failing, you might hear a high-pitched sound coming from your motor. This noise is a result of a loose belt producing a harmonic whining sound as it rotates. The loose belt is a result of a loose pulley or bearing that runs the water pump assembly. The moment the bearings fail inside the water pump, it won’t be able to function and will need a replacement. The moment you notice a whining noise coming from the front of your engine, that increases in pitch as you accelerate, have your local mechanic check it out immediately. Your water pump could be faulty.

Your Radiator Begins to Steam

If steam is coming from the front of your vehicle’s motor when driving or stopping, it’s a definite sign of an overheating engine. Your vehicle can maintain optimum operating temperatures only when your water pump is functioning properly and is circulating coolant fluid into a functional radiator. The moment you notice steam coming from the front of your motor, you need to pull over in a safe area and contact your mechanic immediately. Avoid driving an overheating engine and instead contact a tow truck – It’s going to be less expensive replacing your water pump than an entire engine.