A water pump in your car is designed to last up to 100,000 miles. Having a thorough knowledge about the water pump and regular maintenance will avoid unexpected costly repairs during the life of your car.
Let’s dig into the world of water pumps to learn more about what it does in your car.
What Is A Water Pump?
The water pump in a car is a critical component of the engine cooling system. It circulates coolant through the engine and radiator, absorbing heat from the engine and dissipating it into the atmosphere. This helps to prevent the engine from overheating.
It is typically made of cast iron or aluminum and sealed with gaskets to prevent coolant leaks. The water pump is cooled by the coolant that it circulates and is typically driven by the serpentine belt, which also drives other accessories such as the alternator and power steering pump.
The water pump has two main parts: the impeller and the housing. The impeller is a fan-like blade that rotates to circulate the coolant. The housing contains the impeller and seals it to prevent leaks.
The water pump is a relatively simple device, but it is very important for the proper operation of the engine. If the water pump fails, the engine can overheat and be damaged.
It is important to replace the water pump at the recommended intervals indicated in the vehicle owner’s manual to prevent this. The below photographs shows a example for water pump in a car.
Symptoms Of A Bad Water Pump
Let us identify the symptoms of a bad water pump first.
- Coolant leak: The gaskets in the water pump can damage over time. If they are damaged, coolant leaks and you will be able to see red or green liquid on the ground when the vehicle is idle. When you notice the liquid, it can be a sign of a leaking water pump.
- Engine overheating: When the water pump does not work, it fails to circulate coolant to the engine. Then the engine overheats. Engine overheating is the beginning of a lot of other issues.
- Low pitched grinding sound from the engine: A weak pulley can create a low pitch grinding noise from the engine. This is usually caused by pulley placement issues or bearing problems in the pump, and once the bearings wear out, the pump will need to be replaced.
- Rust and corrosion: When the coolant is contaminated, it can cause corrosion of the impeller and rust when the pressure plug is faulty and generates bubbles. This will cause the pump to be ineffective and lead to damage to all cooling system components, potentially even the engine.
- Steam coming from under the hood: If you see steam coming from the front of the engine while driving or stopping, it’s a sign of the engine overheating. This can occur if the water pump is not working properly and supplying coolant to the radiator. If you see steam, move to a safe place and contact a mechanic immediately.
- Holes or leakage system on the dry side of the water pump: Over time, the outer seals can break and deteriorate, causing holes to form in the water pump. Drivers should take their car to a mechanic if they notice any holes or leakage on the dry side of the water pump.
Where is the water pump located?
The water pump in a car is generally located at the front of the engine, often near the bottom of the engine block. It is driven by a belt connected to the crankshaft and is sealed to prevent leaks. The water pump has a rotating shaft with a pulley attached to it. The belt wraps around the pulley, transmitting power from the crankshaft to the water pump.
Common causes of water pump failures
Most people know that a water pump is important to vehicle operation, but not everyone knows the most common causes of water pump failure.
1. Bad or damaged seal
If the seal, located between the water pump housing and the engine block is damaged, it can result in coolant leaks and excess air in the cooling system.
It can be damaged due to improper installation, prolonged inactivity of the vehicle, or corrosive coolant. Excess air in the cooling system can lead to further corrosion and reduced pump efficiency.
2. Loose drive pulley
If the pulley is vibrating, the pulley bearings will wear and eventually fail. This will reduce pump efficiency and leads to pump failure. Imbalanced impellers can also result from a loose drive pulley.
3. Corrosion
Corrosion occurs when the coolant is not properly maintained or when it is replaced with a mix that includes tap water.
The pump may start to leak, the impellers may become corroded, and the seal between the block and the pump may be damaged and leak.
Can I drive with a failed water pump?
No, you should not drive with a failed water pump. The water pump is crucial for circulating coolant through the engine to keep it from overheating. Driving without a functioning water pump can cause severe engine damage.
To avoid the risks and costs of an unexpected water pump failure, It’s recommended to replace it around every 100,000 miles. However, some people choose to wait longer before replacing it, but this increases the risk of a breakdown while driving. In such a situation, the engine will heat up quickly, which could lead to additional costs such as towing fees if you’re unable to make it to a safe location.
Tips And Tricks
Here are some tips to maintain your car’s water pump in good condition:
- Regular Maintenance: Regular inspection of your car, including inspections of the water pump, ensures that everything is functioning properly. This will help identify potential issues before they become more serious problems.
- Keep the Engine Coolant Clean: Dirt, rust, and other contaminants in the engine coolant can cause the water pump to become damaged. Replace the coolant regularly, as recommended in your car owner’s manual, to keep it clean and free from debris.
- Keep the Drive Belt Tight: The water pump is driven by a drive belt, which can become loose over time. This can cause the water pump to become misaligned and cause unnecessary stress on the pump and other components. Have your mechanic tighten the drive belt, if necessary.
- Avoid Overheating: Overheating can cause damage to the water pump and other components in your car’s engine. Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature gauge and address any overheating issues promptly.
- Address Leaks: If you notice any coolant leaks, address them immediately as they can indicate a problem with the water pump. Ignoring leaks can cause further damage and increase the risk of failure.
Finally, maintaining the condition in your water pump will allow you to enjoy a smooth ride in the coming years.
Conclusion
This article has emphasized the importance of regular maintenance for your car’s water pump to avoid unexpected and costly repairs. The water pump, being a crucial component of the engine cooling system, requires attention to ensure it functions optimally for up to 100,000 miles as designed. Key maintenance tips include regular inspections, keeping the engine coolant clean, ensuring the drive belt is tight, addressing overheating issues promptly, and fixing any coolant leaks immediately. By adhering to these maintenance practices, car owners can significantly extend the lifespan of their water pump, ensuring a smoother ride and preventing potential engine damage due to overheating.
John Smith, a Los Angeles-based car specialist and automotive writer, boasts over 20 years in the industry. With a background as a master technician and a decade-long writing stint at notable automotive publications, John now shares his expansive knowledge on CarFinite, simplifying car maintenance for readers.