How to Fix a Water Pump in a Vehicle

Reviewed by Jason Shackelford

Last Updated: September 24, 2024 References

Fixing a water pump refers to the process of replacing an essential part of your vehicle's cooling system. It is one of the least complicated procedures to carry out, as far as auto repairs go, so almost anyone who can operate a wrench can do this on their own. Follow these steps for how to fix a water pump.

Steps

Download Article

1
Confirm that the water pump is nonoperational by examining the functionality of the bearings by manually jostling the fan blade.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- This applies to fan operated cooling systems. The fan bearing should remain firmly seated if it is not in need of repair.
2
Jiggle the pulley that operates the pump in the case of a motorized fan.
- The shaft should remain tight if it is working properly.
Advertisement
3
Inspect the pump casing for splotches, caused by an inordinate amount of fluid leakage, which would indicate a faulty seal.
- A few drops of water should sweat from the vent hole over a long period of time, but a ruined seal will cause excessive overflow.
^{[2]
X
Research source}
^{[3]
X
Research source}
^{[4]
X
Research source}
^{[5]
X
Research source}
^{[6]
X
Research source}
^{[7]
X
Research source}
^{[8]
X
Research source}

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

How do I know if my engine block got cracked?

Community Answer

Open the radiator cap and stick your finger in it when the engine is cold. If there is oil on your finger, this is one sign of a cracked block. Your engine will lose compression and overheat, this is another sign. Your vehicle might also lose or burn a lot of oil.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 9
Question

How do I find the water pump on my car?

Community Answer

Open the hood, follow the belt, and it should be underneath the main fan right behind the radiator.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 2
Question

How important is a temperature sensor?

Community Answer

Very important, because without it the cooling fan cannot start at the right time, and also the car's main computer needs to know it for the right fuel air mixture.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 5 Helpful 9

See more answers

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Video

Tips

Maintaining the proper ratio of water to coolant, specified in your owner's manual, is the easiest way to prevent damage to the cooling system.

Thanks
Helpful 8 Not Helpful 0
Label the bolts to make reinstallation easier.

Thanks
Helpful 9 Not Helpful 1
It is imperative to inspect the water pump as soon as you suspect a problem, as a faulty cooling system can be disastrous for your engine.

Thanks
Helpful 11 Not Helpful 2