The water pump, often referred to as the coolant pump, is a small part that is very important. One of the main functions of the part is to keep the car cool in the summer and not freeze in the winter. This part continuously pumps the coolant from radiator to the car engine to prevent the engine from overheating during operation and prevent the engine from boiling. When the car engine is working, it produces a very high temperature of about 2,500 degrees Celsius. For optimal operation, the engine temperature should be kept in the range of 90 to 95 degrees Celsius.
The water pump is usually operated by the timing belt, but sometimes an auxiliary belt that is connected to the head pulley of the water pump causes it to move. For this reason, auto repairs usually suggest replacing the water pump every time the timing belt is replaced, because both parts are difficult to access and the replacement cost is very high.
If the failure of the water pump is not fixed in time, it will cause damage to the cylinder head gasket and car engine, so it is better to know the symptoms of a failing water pump which by checking it, you can prevent the excessive costs of repairing the cylinder head gasket and car engine.
Every time the engine starts, the water pump starts working and pumps the coolant inside the radiator towards the engine, and the coolant containing water and antifreeze circulates inside the cylinder head and the engine shell. The heat of the engine is absorbed by the coolant and as a result its temperature rises, which must be returned to the radiator to cool down and then return to the engine after cooling down.
Because the function of the water pump is to maintain the constant circulation of water in the engine, it must work as long as the car engine is on, usually manufacturers make them with a long life. Of course, some water pumps may not last long, and since the failure of this part of the car leads to many problems, including the failure of the cylinder head gasket and the car engine, it should be repaired or replaced immediately.
Since the water is circulating inside the water pump, its sealing is very important, because in case of failing, the water will leak to the back of the part and cause the ball bearings to fail and eventually lead to the water pump being locked. Therefore, a hole is placed behind this part so that when the fiber and spring fail, as a result water passes through it to the bearing and the water flows out of the hole which notifies the driver of the failure.
Another thing that indicates the failure of the water pump is the oxidation of the impellers inside it. Since the water pump is constantly in contact with water, it wears out over time, which also causes a decrease in water flow in the long run. In the water pump, the water circulation becomes less and as a result the engine heats up. Continuous use of anti-freeze, which also acts as an anti-corrosion agent, can prevent rotting and perforation of the water pump impellers.
Therefore, when the engine temperature rises sharply and the car’s cooling fan is constantly working, if the car’s temperature does not decrease, the car’s water pump should be checked quickly. In addition, one of the most common signs of failure of this important part is water leakage and the presence of drops around it.
Also, additional noises or a sound similar to abrasion can also be a sign of the failure of the car’s water pump. In the meantime, always note that the engine temperature warning light on the odometer display is also a warning that reminds you to check the condition of the water pump.