What does a water pump do?

Your car’s water pump is responsible for circulating the engine coolant around the cooling system. It is located in the engine bay and is usually powered from the engine drive belt.

Ford

The Ford Motor Company is an American multinational automaker, founded by Henry Ford in 1903. One of the most long-standing giants of the motoring industry with an estimated asset wealth of around $256 billion, Ford became a popular household name throughout the UK in the 1960s with the introduction of the Ford Transit, the Ford Escort and the Ford Capri.

How popular is Ford in the United Kingdom?

With the Ford Fiesta consistently winning accolades as the best selling car in the UK, it’s no surprise to hear that in 2018 there were approximately 5.5million Ford cars on the roads by the end of the year.

With a proven track record for good value and sensible, practical driving, along with a dealership just around every corner, Ford has developed a method of sustaining great sales by giving drivers just what they need.

Popular well-priced cars with a sturdy reputation

There’s a Ford car for practically every sensible driver. Actually, there are a few Ford cars for the more daring driver too. Take a look at the history of RS and Cosworth models, both making an impact in the world of rally driving and touring car racing.

While they’re better known for providing family transport that includes the Ka, the Fiesta and the Focus, Ford also produces the lavishly equipped Edge SUV, and also the S-Max and Galaxy people carriers too.

And for something quite a lot less mainstream, Ford deliver some muscle

From a very traditional and mainstream marque, it’s refreshing to see that they still deliver a great big slice of larger than life America—and the latest model Ford Mustang is no exception. If a Mondeo or a Focus isn’t really your thing, and even the RS models aren’t sporty enough, then the new Mustang’s brawny delivery of sleek lines powered by its 5-litre V8 engine could be just the thing. Failing that, the Ford GT supercar with its twin-turbo V6 won’t fail to turn heads. All £420k of it.

How often should a water pump need replacing?

Due to the importance of their operation, water pumps are often replaced before they fail. It is recommended that a water pump be replaced between 60k and 90k miles of operation. It is also advisable that the timing belt, idler pulleys, and tensioner be replaced at the same time.

The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT

An obviously leaking water pump will fail an MOT. A very slight drip or suspected leak may cause an advisory measure, which given the impact a leaking water pump can have on the engine, it should be checked and replaced straight away.

What happens when we replace your water pump?

• Our efficient and fully qualified mechanics will inspect the water pump and cooling system, including a possible pressure test to detect any leaks.

• Wherever required your water pump will be replaced and you’ll be advised of any other connected or associated problems arising from its malfunction.

• You will also be advised of any other affected parts that may need to be replaced for the best operation and health of your vehicle.

• Once the faulty water pump has been replaced, our mechanics will test it thoroughly to ensure its correct operation and make any adjustments required for trouble-free performance.

What causes a water pump to stop working correctly?

A water pump and its components can wear out over time. This may result in leaking or a reduced pumping capacity. It is imperative that your water pump operates correctly, as failure to pump coolant through your engine can cause engine overheating and irreparable damage to your engine.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning water pump

Fluid underneath the engine

If there are patches or puddles of fluid on the floor beneath your engine, it could be a leaking water pump.

Fluid in the engine bay

If you spot fluid leaking around the water pump in the engine bay, then your water pump may be damaged.

The car won’t start

If your car doesn’t start, it could be due to failed water pump operation.

The engine temperature is high

If the temperature gauge reads higher than normal or your engine is overheating, it could be caused by a malfunctioning water pump.

The engine temperature warning light is illuminated

Any dashboard warning light is an indicator that a sensor has detected an incorrect operation. An engine temperature warning could be related to your water pump.