Learn the Importance of Engine Water Pumps
Under the hood of your car is the engine along with other components and parts, one of which is the water pump. Replacement of any of those components and part are often something you can’t delay, especially the water pump.
What does the water pump do?
The water pump is a crucial component of the cooling system of a car engine. It pushes the coolant from the radiator through the cooling system, into the engine, then back to the radiator. The coolant absorbs heat from the engine and transfers it into air at the radiator.
What happens if you don’t have a water pump replacement done?
When the water pump isn’t working, the coolant sits inside the cooling system, and the engine overheats. This can seriously damage the engine and can damage other components and parts connected to the engine. When the water pump isn’t working water pump replacement is absolutely necessary.
How do you know if the water pump is going bad?
It may start slowly or it may just quit working altogether. There are four common symptoms that your car may need a water pump replacement:
1. Coolant Leaking
There can be a number of reasons why a coolant is leaking from your car, but the most common reason is the water pump is failing or completely quit working. When you notice water leaking from the backside of the engine, schedule an appointment with your mechanic to inspect the engine.
2. Engine Overheats
An overheating engine often happens when the water pump isn’t circulating the coolant throughout the engine. As we stated earlier, a failing water pump can cause serious engine damage if you don’t get a water pump replacement soon.
3. Coolant In The oil
Oil and water don’t mix! So, if you discover there is coolant in the oil, it is time for a water pump replacement.
4. Odd Engine Sounds
When a water pump begins to go out, it will make a squealing noise. This happens because there is a damaged or loose pulley inside the water pump, and it isn’t circulating the coolant. A water pump replacement is necessary sooner than later, or you could find yourself broken down on the side of the road.
Can a car be driven with a bad water pump?
You can, but mechanics advise not to! As we have mentioned already, the water pump is what keeps the coolant circulating through the engine to keep it from overheating. If you notice any of the issues we listed above, take your car to a mechanic and have them inspect the possibility of a water pump replacement.
How much does a water pump replacement cost?
There are a few factors that influence the cost of a water pump replacement. Factors like the type of engine, water pump location, the replacement water pump, and of course the labor cost, which is more than the other factors.
The average cost of a water pump replacement can start around $500 and could cost over $1,000 with a breakdown estimation as follows:
Approximate water pump costs are between $200 and up to $500. Labor costs can vary between auto garages and auto shops. Some will charge by the hour and others have a flat rate for basic jobs like water pump replacements.
How long does it take to install a water pump replacement?
Water pumps are buried under other components, requiring a mechanic to use special tools based on the year, make, and model of the car. In most cases, water pump replacement can be done within three hours or less. Often, mechanics recommend replacing the timing belt at the same time they do the water pump replacement because they typically wear out at the same time.
Is a water pump replacement worthwhile?
Absolutely! As we have mentioned throughout this piece, the water pump is essential to the engine operating at a cool temperature to keep it from overheating. If you notice any of the issues we’ve listed, take your car immediately to a mechanic to have it assessed. If the mechanic recommends a water pump replacement, follow that advice to eliminate the possibility of your engine overheating and leaving you stranded.
What is the lifespan of a water pump?
Having your oil changed, tires rotated, and the radiator coolant level checked should be among your routine car maintenance and upkeep. The lifespan of a water pump averages between 60,000 miles and 90,000 miles. By 100,000 miles, a water pump replacement is going to be necessary sooner rather than later.
In Summary
Some of the indications we have mentioned about a water pump failing can also be indicative of other components failing, including the engine. This is why it is important to have your mechanic inspect the problem you’re having to determine which component is the problem. For expert water pump replacement in Lombard and Wheaton, IL, call us now at 630-932-4427!