Within a car as trusted as your Mini, certain parts like the water pump are important to the overall function of your vehicle. The water pump is a looped system for the coolant in your vehicle. It is responsible for pumping the coolant in your vehicle from the radiator to the coolant system, engine, and then back into the radiator.

Coolant is a crucial part of your Mini, as it transfers heat when moving throughout the system. Your engine heats up to extreme temperatures due to the combustions cycle and requires coolant to keep that temperature regulated. Without that regulation, your vehicle risks overheating and potentially engine failure.

Signs of a Failing Water Pump

The water pump, by extension, is potentially the most important part of your Mini. It is important to keep an eye out for signs that the water pump may be failing. If you notice any of these signs, take your car in immediately and only drive when necessary.

Leaking Coolant

Your water pump is made up of many gaskets and seals. If any of these are compromised, you may notice a coolant leak. Seeing a green or, in some cases, orange fluid under the hood of your car should set off warning bells in your head.

Steam from the Radiator

Your radiator is responsible for transferring heat out of your vehicle. If steam is rising from the radiator, it is a sign of your engine overheating and too much heat attempting to escape. This is likely caused by a failed water pump and lack of coolant movement.

Whining Sounds

Any unusual sound from under the hood should be reason for caution. However, if it sounds as if it could be coming from the water pump then it could be indicative of a number of problems. It is best not to drive a vehicle making sounds you are unfamiliar with.

Smoke

Distinct from steam rising above the radiator, smoke is a clear sign of an overheating engine and a common cause could be a faulty water pump.

Causes of a Failing Water Pump

So now that the common symptoms of a failed water pump are layed out, let’s take a closer look at the causes of a failing water pump.

Loose Gaskets

The water pump is made up of a large number of moving parts. Any loose or rusty parts can compromise the entire system. Over time, the gasket pressure can loosen and allow for leaking coolant.

Worn Bearings

This is the most common cause of a failing water pump. Over the course of its lifetime, the water pump moves a large amount of coolant. It is entirely possible that the bearings allowing for this to happen simply wear out due to excessive use.

Excessive Serpentine Belt Tension

Should your serpentine belt become worn or have the improper tension, your water pump may not go through the proper motion. This can lead to incorrect amounts of coolant being pushed through the system or potentially none at all if the belt is compromised. Anyone can look under the hood of their car and check the tension of their serpentine belt. If you see serious damage, it is best to take your car in right away.

Masters European & Japanese Auto Repair will Help

A blown water pump is a serious problem that should be handled with the utmost care. That’s why Masters European & Japanese Auto Repair is ready to give you the service you deserve. We have proudly served customers in the areas of Corte Madera, Larkspur, Sausalito, Tiburon, and Mill Valley, CA.

We provide auto service that runs the gamut of simple oil changes to fixing major engine problems. Our title as Mill Valley’s number one auto repair shop for European and Japanese vehicles ensures your Mini will get the best possible treatment.

If you believe your vehicle has a faulty water pump, give us a call to schedule an appointment. You can also come visit us at our location to see why we get such high reviews. We look forward to earning your business and helping you get your Mini back to its peak performance.