Coolant Leaks: If you notice brightly coloured coolant puddles under your car, it’s likely due to failing rubber gaskets in the pump. Address these leaks promptly to prevent major repairs.
Corrosion and Deposits: Small, unchecked leaks can lead to deposit build-up around the pump. Inspect the pump for signs of wear or cavities caused by air bubbles. Contaminated coolant or a defective pressure cap can exacerbate these issues.
Overheating Engine: If the pump is not functioning properly, the engine will overheat, indicated by rising temperatures on your dashboard gauge. This may require replacing the water pump, especially if there’s damage to the internal impeller.
Whining Noises: A high-pitched sound from the front of the car could indicate a loose pulley or worn bearings in the pump, often necessitating a pump replacement.
Steam from Radiator: Steam indicates that the coolant system is failing to adequately cool the engine. If you see steam, stop the vehicle immediately to avoid further damage and contact an emergency mechanic.
Prolonging the Life of A Water Pump To avoid premature pump failure:
Regular Coolant Replacement: Keep the coolant clean to prevent build-up that can damage the pump.
Proper Belt Tension: Ensure the belt has the correct tension and is properly aligned to avoid stressing the pump.
Address Overheating Quickly: Resolve any overheating issues immediately to protect the pump’s internal components.
Quality Parts: Invest in high-quality pumps such as BGA, engineered in the UK to meet or surpass OEM specification quality to extend the lifespan of your cooling system.
Simultaneous Timing Belt Replacement: Consider replacing the timing belt when you replace the pump to prevent coolant contamination from damaging the belt. BGA also offer OE matching or surpassing quality Timing Belts, and Kits also containing Water Pumps.
Replacing a water pump can be challenging and is generally best left to professionals. It’s recommended to replace the pump every 60K to 90K miles, often simultaneously with the timing belt for convenience, as both parts are accessed through the timing cover.
A Closer look into Water Pump Internals:
UPGRADE TO A BGA WATER PUMP:
BGA is Europes leading supplier of OE Quality Engine, Steering and Transmission parts. BGA Water Pumps are the safest upgrade for auto technicians carrying out water pump replacements.
BGA Seals:
BGA, with over a century of OEM heritage, develop silicon carbide seals that represent expertise, innovation, and reliability in sealing technology. These seals markedly enhance service life by resisting wear from debris in the cooling system.
BGA Water Pump Bearings:
BGA’s Water Pumps showcase high-torque, OE-quality bearings with PA Polymer Cages, expertly engineered to endure the most demanding axial and radial stresses, ensuring superior performance and durability.
BGA is available at Motor Factors and Wholesalers in over 90 Countries across the world. Visit your local Auto Store to purchase/enquire about BGA OE Quality Engine Parts.
