If the water pump in your car, truck, or utility vehicle is going bad, you may hear grinding or growling sounds coming from the engine. This is an indication that there is a problem with the pump’s internal mechanisms. Willoughby Hills Auto Repair advises that you may also hear squealing sounds if the accessory belt to which the water pump is attached is too loose. These are just two signs that it is time to replace the water pump. Here are other indications that your water pump is bad.
Rusty Water Pump
If you take a look at the water pump and it is covered in rust and corrosion, it has a small leak that is causing pools of coolant around it. Unfortunately, the coolant will damage the pump through its corrosion. It’s important to have the pump replaced as soon as possible to avoid additional problems.
Leaking Coolant
One problem that may occur is you will end up with leaking coolant on the garage floor. If the pump is already leaking enough to allow coolant to puddle around it, the leak will only get worse over time. As the leak gets worse, you will end up with spots of engine coolant on the garage floor. If you don’t replace the pump at that time, you may end up with puddles of coolant on the garage floor. It’s important to replace a leaking water pump as soon as possible.
Poor Circulation
Another sign that your car’s water pump is bad is if it is unable to circulate the coolant throughout the engine. This is the water pump’s job. Once the thermostat releases the coolant because the engine is getting too hot, the water pump circulates it throughout the engine so it can draw the heat into the coolant. Poor coolant circulation is an indication that the water pump is unable to do its job properly. This is a sign that it needs to be replaced.
Overheating Engine
Finally, if the water pump is leaking or unable to circulate the coolant, you will end up with an overheating engine every time you drive your automobile. Driving an automobile when the engine is too hot can cause serious damage such as a cracked exhaust manifold gasket, a cracked engine block, or a cracked head gasket. Don’t drive an overheating automobile.
Willoughby Hills Auto Repair is the best auto service shop in Willoughby Hills, OH, so call us today to schedule a service appointment if you suspect that you need to have your water pump replaced.