The best way to determine the lifespan of a water pump is to look at your vehicle’s odometer. Generally, the water pump lasts 100,000 miles or more before it needs to be replaced. RI Automotive can inspect your water pump if you suspect that it is going bad. If you drive a high-mileage automobile and are having any of the issues listed below, it’s possible that your water pump needs to be replaced.
A Rusty Water Pump
If you pop the hood and visually inspect the water pump, you should not see any corrosion on it. If you do, the water pump has a tiny leak that is releasing coolant around it that pools and corrodes the pump housing. This can cause problems with the water pump, including larger leaks as the rust continues to eat away at the water pump’s metal. Replacing the pump now is an excellent idea.
Leaking Engine Coolant
You may not realize that your water pump has a tiny leak until it is too late. Once you see coolant spots on the garage floor, the water pump needs to be replaced. The coolant leaks will be toward the front of your automobile’s engine, as this is where the pump is located. If you check your coolant level and see that it is low, the spots or puddles on the garage floor are most likely the engine coolant.
Poor Coolant Circulation
If you are wondering what the water pump does, know that it is responsible for circulating the coolant through the engine to keep its temperature under 220 degrees Fahrenheit. If the coolant circulation is poor, all fingers point to the water pump. We would be happy to check your engine’s coolant circulation to see if there is a problem with it. If there is, we’ll replace the water pump.
Grinding or Growling Noises
Your water pump may also need to be replaced if it is making grinding or growling noises. You will hear these noises coming from the front of your engine. These sounds are an indication that the water pump is malfunctioning internally. The water pump may also be affected by a loose accessory belt that is making squealing noises when you start your automobile.
Constant Overheating
Finally, if your car, truck, or utility vehicle has a problem with overheating constantly, it could be that the water pump has gone bad and is no longer able to circulate coolant through the engine. If there is a leak, this can also cause the constant overheating due to low coolant levels.
RI Automotive is the best auto service shop in Tampa, FL, and we can inspect and test your water pump if your car, truck, or C/SUV is having any of the problems discussed above. Call us today for a service appointment.