If your car is overheating and you hear grinding noises coming from the engine, it’s possible that the water pump has gone bad. We will talk more about the specific symptoms of the faulty water pump low. Hummel’s Automotive Diagnostics & Repair can replace your water pump if it needs it. Generally, the water pump lasts 100,000 miles before it starts to malfunction and die. Without a functioning water pump, you will have no coolant circulating through the engine.
Corroded Pump Housing
One of the first signs that your water pump needs to be replaced is corrosion on the pump housing. This is an indication that the water pump is leaking coolant around it and the coolant is eating through the housing metal. It’s best to replace the water pump as soon as possible to avoid an even bigger leak as the water pump continues to fail.
Leaking Engine Coolant
If you do end up with a leak that is more severe, you will see engine coolant on your garage floor. It’s always a good idea to know the color of your engine coolant because this automotive fluid comes in many different hues. Pop the hood when your engine is cold and take a look at the coolant in the radiator overflow reservoir. It will likely be either green, blue, red, or yellow.
Reduced Coolant Circulation
As we mentioned above, without the water pump, coolant cannot circulate through the engine. Circulation is the water pump’s job. At first, you may not realize that your coolant circulation is poor; the water pump may slowly die yet still circulate some coolant. Eventually, the water pump will die and you will end up with no coolant in the engine to reduce its temperature.
Grinding or Whining Noises
One sign that your water pump is on its way out is grinding noises coming from the engine. This is an indication that the water pump’s internal mechanisms are worn and grinding against each other. Another thing that can affect coolant circulation is a problem with your vehicle’s accessory belt. If the belt is too loose, it may whine or squeal.
Constant Overheating
Finally, all of these things will cause your engine to overheat whenever you drive your car, truck, or C/SUV. Replacing the malfunctioning water pump will restore the coolant’s circulation and keep your vehicle’s temperature under 220 degrees Fahrenheit.
Hummel’s Automotive Diagnostics & Repair is the best auto service shop in St. George, UT, so schedule a service appointment for your vehicle with us today.
