Ideally, the water pump will last 10 years or about 100,000 miles in your car, SUV, or truck. Once the water pump fails, Ideal Automotive advises that it is crucial to have it replaced right away. The water pump is found in the cooling system of your automobile, and it is responsible for taking the coolant that the thermostat releases and circulating it through the engine. Once the water pump goes bad, you will notice one or more of the following problems.
Corrosion on the Pump’s Exterior
If you are driving an automobile that has reached its tenth birthday, pop the hood and take a good look at the water pump. You might see that the pump is corroded. Corrosion on the outside of the water pump is a sign that the pump has a slow leak. While the leak is slow, the coolant just puddles around the pump and eats through the metal. Eventually, you will end up with…
Leaking Coolant on the Garage Floor
This leak is more severe and can starve the engine of coolant. When the water pump starts to leak coolant onto the garage floor, the level of coolant in the engine goes down. Consequently, the engine may start to overheat if there are spots or puddles of coolant on the garage floor. To prevent this from happening, replace the water pump if it is corroded.
Reduced Coolant Circulation
As we mentioned above, the water pump moves the coolant through the engine. This circulation keeps the engine cool in all areas. The maximum temperature an engine should reach is 220 degrees Fahrenheit. If the coolant circulation is reduced by a faulty water pump, it’s easy for the engine to exceed this temperature. Stop driving your vehicle if it does.
Growling or Whining Noises
You might also hear the water pump malfunction. When it has worn out and is having problems, it will growl. This noise will come from the front of your engine. The water pump relies on the accessory belt to power it. If the belt is loose, you may also hear whining in the engine.
Constant Engine Overheating
Finally, all of the above is going to cause your engine to overheat. You will know it is running too hot when the needle on the temperature gauge reaches the red area. Pull over right away and call for a tow truck. Driving your vehicle could damage the engine.
Ideal Automotive in Blaine, MN, would be happy to help, so call us today if you’ve got a corroded water pump under the hood.
