When does a water pump need to be replaced?

 

Water pumps have a long service interval, but this often means that car owners underestimate the eventual need for a new water pump. Although water pumps wear over time, certain negligent factors are mostly responsible for speeding up this process.

Water pumps and timing belts have similar lifespans. Which is why Dolz highly recommends replacing both at the same time. This not only ensures efficient and safe maintenance, but it also incurs labour costs savings and a shorter period of non-use. 

 

How long does a car water pump last?

 

When considering a durable and reliable water pump, there are two factors that play the biggest role in ensuring a water pump’s long life: 

  1. Water pump fitting and quality. 
  2. Cooling system maintenance. 

Specific water pump lifespans vary depending on the vehicle’s model and on its type of cooling system. It is strongly advisable to, first of all, find a reliable partner before having to change the latest water pump, and second, follow recommendations specified in the car owner’s manual as to when installing a new well pump.

 

Keep reading: 3 reasons to replace both the timing belt and the water pump at the same time

 

Furthermore, the urge for a brand-new water pump will largely depend on driver practices throughout the years. If preventive maintenance and thorough care of the vehicle’s cooling system are taken seriously, a quality water pump can last up to 100.000 miles, again, depending on the model.

 

Is a new water pump needed? – Signs

 

Among the most common causes of water pump damage are leaks, improper use of sealant, damage from improper use of coolant causing cavitation damage, and corrosion. Most of the wear occurs inside the unit, which is why oftenly it cannot be seen until opened. 

Regular maintenance should include the dismantling of the water pump to accurately check for wear at central parts. However, there are several apparent signs of malfunctioning. For you to be able to spot any of these, here is a list of the 5 most common water pump failure symptoms explained:

 

Coolant leaks

 

Water pump leaking is one of the most evident and common indications of pump failure, making it a clear sign that it’s time to replace it for a new one. Coolant leaks represent themselves as a puddle of coloured coolant (usually green, orange or red) on the ground, right under the parked vehicle.

 

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This happens because the coolant is stored in the pump using a series of gaskets and seals. Once one of these parts wears out, loosens or cracks, the coolant will eventually leak outside of the engine.

If this is the case, we suggest you to drive your vehicle as soon as possible to your closest workshop, as it can still mean a relatively easy and minor fix.

 

Whining noises

 

If you hear a high-pitched whining noise that comes from the front of your vehicle while accelerating, it might be a sign that your water pump is dying. The pump needs pulley belts and bearings to function, and if one of these components remain to loose or are worn out, it will make a sound commonly described as harmonic buzzing. 

In many cases, the belt can be component responsible for this sound. Having it replaced along with your vehicle’s maintenance schedule will keep you safe from more serious damage.

 

Temperature rises

 

A dying water pump is unable to circulate coolant through the vehicle’s engine and, as a result, the engine will overheat or run at unstable temperatures. If the engine gets too hot, the chance of serious damage is extremely high. 

Overheating can strongly damage the pistons, cylinders, and the engine’s head gasket, potentially resulting in engine breakdown. So, keep an eye on the temperature gauge and, if there is a considerable rise on temperature, take it immediately for inspection or it might end up not being repairable.

 

Keep learning: Car temperature: Key aspect in a vehicle’s performance

 

Surfacing rust and corrosion

 

Air seeping through a defective pressure cap, non-compatible or dirty engine coolant, mineral build-up, and even age can corrode your vehicle’s water pump. Rust and corrosion on the pump’s surfaces make the pump unable to move the coolant around.

Rust or tiny holes on the water pump’s surface will eventually damage the pump impellers, the joint between the block and the pump and reduce its efficiency.

When checking the need for a new water pump, pop up your hood and look out for any signs of rust and corrosion on the pump’s exterior. If these show up, it is time to carry out a water pump replacement, as a corroded or damaged one will not properly operate.

 

Industrias Dolz, your ideal supplier for new water pumps

 

Premium quality water pumps mean no premature failure or unnecessary leaks. Choosing Dolz as the manufacturer for your water pump will ensure a durable and reliable cooling system solution that will require far less hassles and replacements.

Dolz’s water pumps have their water tightness rigorously checked in a calibrated and extremely precise automatic leak detection machine. This allows us to hold a guarantee rate that is less than a 0.05% in all of our aftermarket car parts.

Dolz has been producing and distributing top-notch water pumps for automobiles and industrial vehicles since 1934. Our nearly 90 years of knowledge and experience prove an optimal replacement option and a wide range of references that comprises: 

Contact us to discover more about our products. In addition, browse through our passenger cars and trucks e-Catalogues to find the most suitable option(s) for you!