Troubleshooting / Water Pump Failure Overheating

• How a thermostat works?
• How does a water pump work?
• How to test a thermostat
• Over heating questions
• How does a cooling system work
• How to open a car hood

1996 - 2005 BMW VW Audi Water Pump Failure Overheating

Introduction

Engine coolant is used to transfer heat from the engine to the radiator by the cooling system. The radiator removes heat from the coolant by forcing air through the radiator fins. Without coolant your engine will over heat and severe engine damage will occur. The water pump is driven by a belt and powered by the engine which circulates coolant when the engine is running. This pump utilizes a veined impeller to pull the coolant from the block to the radiator.  Some BMW, Volkswagen and Audi cars have a common problem that the water pump impeller becomes dislodged from the input shaft of the water pump leaving the water pump looking ok from the outside, but failed on the inside. If your car experiences this problem it will over heat rapidly much like a thermostat failure. For exact specific repair procedures for this repair visit our online repair manual page.

Failed BMW, VW, Audi Water Pump

Troubleshooting Procedure

WARNING! Only inspect vehicle when it has completely cooled down, preferably over night or personal injury can occur.

• Check Water Pump Operation - To trouble shoot this problem first drain about a half a gallon out of the cooling system, next remove the thermostat from the engine. With the thermostat out start the engine (stand back) coolant should be forced out of the thermostat port, if not the impeller has dislodged itself from the water pump input shaft and needs to be replaced. To replace the water pump finish draining the remainder of engine coolant, remove the multi rib belt and coolant hoses. Next remove the water pump mounting bolts and remove the water pump. Clean gasket surfaces and reinstall new water pump and reassemble. Refill with coolant and recheck system, top off engine coolant after it has re-cooled.

Troubleshooting / Water Pump Failure Overheating

Check Manufacturer Specific Engine Over Heating Questions and Answers

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