A car’s water pump is a device that takes water from the radiator and moves it through the motor and back to the radiator. It ensures that the temperature of the engine remains constant.
When the water from the radiator gets to the engine, it heats up so it needs the water pump to return it to the radiator where it can cool down again. If this cycle does not continue, the engine will overheat.
In this article, we will be sharing the working mechanism of a car water pump and ways you can use it more efficiently. Let’s dive in.
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How Does the Water Pump Work?
In regular vehicles, the engine turns the water pump’s belt, which rotates the water pump’s axle. The axle is linked to a series of vanes, which also rotate with the axle.
The spinning motion creates a suction that pulls water from the radiator. When the water reaches the pump, centrifugal force pushes it against the outer walls of the pump and then down into the engine block.
The water travels through the cylinder heads and drains back to the radiator, where the cycle starts again.
Signs That Your Car’s Water Pump Is Faulty
As with other car components, water pumps can fail as they age. These are some of the most common signs you see when your water pump is faulty:
- The temperature warning light of your car is on, indicating your engine is overheated.
- Coolant leakage due to an eroded gasket no longer sealing the water pump’s weep hole.
- Your water pump pulley gets loose because its bearing has eroded.
- You hear a slight grinding noise when your engine runs because the water pump’s bearings have eroded.
If your water pump isn’t working properly or stops working, it causes your engine to overheat. So, it is advised that you see a mechanic as soon as you notice these signs. That’s because using it further will cause more complications and result in more repair cost.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
What Happens When My Water Pump Stops Working as it Should?
If your car’s water pump stops working as it should, your engine will overheat. It’s important to call your mechanic as soon as you notice these warning signs. Driving any further than needed can make the problem worse and cause expensive repairs.
How Long Should Vehicle Water Pumps Last?
The expected lifespan of a water pump is around 60,000 miles to 90,000 miles, but it can last longer than that. Once your car has covered up to 100,000 miles, you can change the water pump to avoid it failing you unexpectedly. Sometimes, the cooking system also gives you some signs that it needs to be replaced.
Why do vehicle water pumps fail?
Like all other moving and rotating parts in your vehicle, your water pump deteriorates due to wear and tear. Over time as the pump ages, its bearings and other components begin to wear down eventually causing the water pump to fail.
What are the common problems with a vehicle water pump?
Although water pumps are efficient and very reliable in their operation, they can and do leak. This can occur at places where the pump meets the engine block. The gasket can deteriorate and leak or the actual impeller can begin to leak as it ages. The impellers inside the pump can also fail over time causing the pump to malfunction.
What should I do if my engine begins to overheat?
Although a faulty water pump can cause your engine to overheat, other things can also cause overheating.
Once you notice that your engine is overheating, call your mechanic to come and check it if there is any other problem. If there is, your mechanic will tell you what to do.
Wrap Up!
Your car’s water pump is very important as it keeps your engine from overheating. Which is why it requires maximum maintenance.
Once you notice any signs that it is faulty, don’t delay in replacing it so your car can perform optimally.
