Function of Car Water Pump, Signs of Damage & How to Overcome It

The car water pump plays an important role in stabilizing the engine temperature. Not only that, this component also has several other functions. Therefore, the condition of the water pump must always be monitored to ensure it functions properly. Below will explain the functions of the water pump, along with signs of damage and how to address them as follows.

Functions of the Car Water Pump

Here are some functions of the water pump that you need to know.

1. Pumping water in the radiator

As the name suggests, the water pump has the main function of pumping water in the car's cooling system, specifically in the radiator.

2. Stabilizing engine temperature

The water pumped from the radiator will be channeled to maintain the engine temperature to always be stable. This way, the engine temperature will not heat up quickly, thus preventing the car from overheating.

Signs of Water Pump Damage in Cars

As explained above, the function of the water pump can be said to be very important. However, many car owners neglect the condition of this component. Generally, water pump damage occurs due to prolonged usage. When your water pump is damaged, the following signs will appear.

1. Loud noise from the car engine

A damaged water pump is usually marked by loud noises coming from the engine. This noise is caused by a broken or damaged water pump drive belt.

2. Water leaking on the car engine

The next sign can be recognized by the presence of water droplets or water leaking on the engine. This condition occurs due to corrosion in the bearing or cover of the water pump, causing water pump leakage.

3. Radiator fan issues

The next sign is usually marked by issues with the radiator fan. Typically, the radiator fan will spin continuously without stopping until the radiator fan cannot spin at all.

4. Stopped radiator water circulation

The next sign is marked by the stopping of radiator water circulation. To find out if the radiator water is circulating well or has stopped, you can check the cap hole of the radiator. Observe whether there is circulation of the radiator water or not.

Additionally, you can also open the hose located above the radiator. Then fill the radiator with water and see if the water is drawn in by the water pump or not?

How to Fix a Damaged Water Pump

Here are some ways you can do to address water pump damage.

1. Drain the radiator water

The first way is to drain the radiator water. The method is quite easy, open the lower radiator hose.

2. Replace the broken drive belt

Next, you can remove the broken or damaged water pump drive belt. Then replace that drive belt with a new one. You can do this when your car engine is making loud noises.

3. Replace the water pump with a new one

Next, you can replace the damaged water pump with a new one. Before replacing it, you need to follow these steps.

Remove other components that connect to the water pump.
Then remove all the bolts that secure the water pump to the engine.
Next, clean the engine area, and install the new water pump.

Next, you can install the gasket and refill the radiator with water. If you are not skilled or are unsure about fixing the water pump damage yourself, you can ask for help from a skilled mechanic at the nearest Daihatsu dealer.

Tips Sahabat