Is your BMW overheating because of a coolant leak and you do not know where the leak is coming from? It might be time that you took your vehicle to an expert to check the condition of your cooling system. One of the biggest problems in the cooling system of BMWs, especially models that have traveled some miles, is the failure of the water pump. This component is responsible for pumping coolant around the engine. When it fails, your engine will overheat because it can no longer cool itself. Here is a list of signs that your BMW has a bad water pump.
How To Tell That The Water Pump Of Your BMW Needs Repairs
- Engine Overheating: The most basic hint of a bad water pump is when the engine is excessively hot. If the water pump is not working correctly, coolant will not be circulated and your BMW engine temperature will shoot up. You may find the temperature needle on the dashboard rising into the danger zone or your BMW may start to show an overheating warning light.
- Coolant Leaks: Another sign the car owner may notice is a coolant leak because of a crack in the water pump. The water pump has seals and gaskets, which prevent the coolant from spilling over. As time passes, these seals can deteriorate or develop cracks that enable coolant to seep from the water pump. Sometimes after parking, especially for a long time, you may observe a pool of fluid on the ground below the car. A coolant leak is easy to identify because it is usually a bright green, yellow, or orange fluid.
- Strange Noises: Abnormal sounds from under the hood, can also be a sign of water pump failure in your automobile. When the bearings within the water pump are worn out, they can make a whining or a grinding-like noise as the pump attempts to turn. These sounds are a sure indication that there is a problem, and the water pump should be inspected by a certified mechanic.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Bad Water Pump
When you drive with a failing water pump, you are headed for an overheated engine, which spells disaster. It is something you do not want to happen, which is why it is important that once the water pump starts to misbehave, you replace it as soon as possible. High temperatures can distort or crack metallic components in your BMW. This means that you will have to spend a lot of money on things like head gaskets or even the entire engine. If you do not fix water pump problems, the engine will be greatly affected later.
Repairing A Faulty Water Pump
- Diagnosis: If you observe any of the above signs in your BMW, you ought to take your BMW to a professional mechanic. They can solve this by setting up a diagnostic check that will enable them to know if the water pump is the cause of the issue.
- Replacement: As is often the case, a faulty water pump will require a repair or replacement. The complexity of the repair work will vary depending on the type of water pump that is used on your BMW, as well as your BMW’s model.
- Coolant System Check: Whenever you change the water pump of your BMW, you should flush the system and change the fluid as well. This helps to clean the entire system by removing any contaminant or debris that may be in your BMW’s coolant system.
Turn to Swedish Auto Service for BMW Water Pump Repairs in Austin
At Swedish Auto Service, we focus mainly on European cars, like BMWs. If you have any challenges, such as diagnosing and repairing water pumps, you can count on the expertise of our mechanics. We are based in Austin, TX, and have been serving European and Asian car owners in the area since 1993. Our mechanics also help drivers from neighboring areas like Round Rock, Cedar Park, and Leander, TX. If you are experiencing any signs of water pump failure, such as overheating, or leaking of coolant, our team of experienced technicians is here to assist you and give you the best service for your BMW. Call us today to schedule an appointment with us!