4 Signs Your Volkswagen Water Pump Is Failing At the most basic level, the water pump is a centrifugal pump. It converts the kinetic energy of the engine to hydrodynamic energy which in turn helps in the coolant circulation between the engine and the radiator. By doing so, it keeps the engine temperature stable. So, you may consider it as the heart of your car’s cooling system which ensures a steady and continuous flow of coolant throughout the engine block. However, a malfunctioning water pump might struggle to stay operational. Interruption in coolant circulation due to a dying water pump can make your Volkswagen engine overheat. Driving your vehicle with an overheated engine can cause irreparable damages to the gaskets, pistons, engine block, and cylinder heads. Therefore, if you are noticing symptoms of water pump failure in your Volkswagen, then take it to the nearest repair shop to get it repaired or replaced. Now, let’s discuss some of the most common reasons behind water pump failure in Volkswagen.
What causes your Volkswagen water pump to fail? Your Volkswagen water pump is supposed to last for 100,000 miles on average without any problems. However, corrosion, bad seal, dry rotation, and worn bearings can cause premature water pump failure in your car. Shaft leaks and bent pulley can also damage the water pump of your vehicle. Besides, cavitation contributes greatly to water pump failure in your car. Whatever the reasons may be, interruption in coolant circulation due to a weak or defective water pump can cause engine overheating. So, if your Volkswagen water pump is dying, then get it repaired or replaced. Here’s a list of some of the most typical signs of a failing water pump in Volkswagen.
Water pump failure symptoms in Volkswagen Overheated engine
Coolant circulates throughout the engine block and head to absorb the heat generated due to the internal combustion process. Then, it makes its way to the radiator in order to disperse that heat energy to the outside air. Interruption in coolant circulation due to a failing water pump can result in the engine overheating in your Volkswagen. So, if you notice a sudden rise in the temperature gauge reading, then your car water pump might be failing.
Strange noises
If you are hearing a scary high-pitched whining or harmonic buzzing noise while driving your car, then it could be a symptom of a bad water pump. Lose pulley or belt might be the reason behind the emergence of such a strange noise. Besides, worn-out bearings in the water pump can also make unusual strange noises. A malfunctioning water pump can jeopardize the entire cooling system of your Volkswagen. So, get it replaced as soon as possible.
Coolant/ antifreeze leak
The water pump has several seals and gaskets. They are responsible for keeping the coolant contained within the system. However, cracked or damaged seals and gaskets might not be able to do their job, as a result of which coolant may leak from the water pump. So, if you notice a puddle of green or pink-colored fluid beneath your Volkswagen at the front-center end, then it could be a sign of water pump failure.
Steamy radiator
In the simplest terms, the radiator is a kind of heat exchanger that transfers heat from the coolant inside to the air outside. By doing so, it helps the coolant to get rid of the excess amount of heat generated by the engine. The emergence of steam from the radiator is an early warning sign of a dying water pump. Leaving this problem untreated can cause engine overheating in your Volkswagen. So, check the condition of the water pump immediately and if necessary get it replaced.
When to see a mechanic? A dying water pump can jeopardize the entire cooling system of your Volkswagen. So, if you are noticing any of these signs, then consult with a certified mechanic immediately. If its water pump is too weak and it is struggling to stay operational, then get it replaced as early as possible.
Wrapping up Water pump is the heart of your car's cooling system. It generates positive pressure necessary for continuous circulation of coolant throughout the engine and the radiator. Failure of such a vital component can jeopardize the cooling system of your Volkswagen. So, anytime you notice any of the above-mentioned signs, call a car mechanic immediately.