What Happens When the Water Pump Gets Too Old?

Most people don’t think about the water pump in their automobile until it needs to be replaced. We get that here at Main Street Automotive. The water pump lasts a long time, as much as 10 years, so you won’t think about this part on a regular basis. The time to think about it is when you start to have one or more of the problems listed below. These are signs that the water pump is going bad.

The Pump Corrodes

If you pop the hood and take a look at the radiator, you will find the water pump next to it. If there is corrosion on the water pump, it is leaking. It may not be leaking enough to leave spots on the garage floor, but the corrosion will continue to eat through the water pump’s metal, and this will increase the leak. To avoid this from happening, have us replace the water pump now.

The Coolant Leaks

Otherwise, the coolant will start to leak out of the pump and onto the garage floor. In the process, the coolant level in the engine will be reduced to the point that the engine will run hotter. If you did not see any corrosion on the water pump, this does not mean that it can’t start leaking coolant when it gets too old. It can, so had to our shop if you have coolant on the garage floor.

The Circulation Is Reduced

Another thing that happens to an old water pump is it loses its ability to circulate the coolant through the engine. Unfortunately, this, too, will cause the engine to overheat. If you are having overheating problems, bring your vehicle to our shop so we can test the circulation. If we see that it is bad, we will replace your old water pump with a new one.

The Pump Growls

You may hear the water pump growling in the engine while you are driving. This is a sign that the inside of the water pump has worn out. If the inside is worn, it’s possible that the coolant circulation is also bad. Again, bring your vehicle to our shop so we can check this.

The Engine Overheats

Finally, the water pump will cause the engine to overheat if it is not working properly. As you have learned above, a leaking water pump can reduce the coolant levels and a malfunctioning water pump can affect the coolant circulation.

Call Main Street Automotive in Walnut Creek, CA, today if you believe your water pump needs to be replaced.