Water Pump and Cooling System Service

Your vehicle’s cooling system plays an important role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. It helps to keep important components, like the engine, running at optimal temperatures, not only so your vehicle doesn’t break down, but also to protect the long-term health of your vehicle’s parts. Ensuring that your cooling system is in good health ensures that your vehicle will be also.

The expert service professionals at Seacoast Mazda offer full maintenance and service for your entire cooling system, including the water pump. We service all types of vehicles, but we are specially certified to service and repair Mazda vehicles. We perform a full diagnostic and make the right repairs and adjustments to ensure that your vehicle is working perfectly and is prepared to have a long and healthy life.

Why Do Engines Overheat?

Any time that your vehicle is turned on, the engine is constantly working. It may be working at lower power when the vehicle is idling, but combustion is continuing, and fuel is burning. The cooling system works to keep the engine below 200 degrees Fahrenheit so that it can continue operating. However, when the cooling system fails, temperatures can quickly rise, and the engine can shut down.

The cooling system is comprised of multiple components, including:

• The radiator
• Radiator cap
• Water pump
• Thermostat
• Hoses

A failure of the radiator is one of the most common reasons for an engine overheating. The radiator is responsible for cooling down the coolant that has absorbed the heat from the engine. Once the material is cooled by the radiator, it is sent back to the engine. The coolant is recycled again and again, and the radiator is the reason that’s possible.

An overheating engine can also be caused by low levels of coolant, which could be caused by a leak. You may see signs that you have a leak, such as wet spots under your vehicle. But you may never notice any visible signs of a leak, which is why it is so important to bring your vehicle to a professional mechanic for an inspection. Our service technicians look for cracks and other signs of a leak, including through a visual inspection, pressure tests, and more.

Another reason your engine may be overheated is that the coolant becomes contaminated over time and forms a sludgy buildup, which prevents the coolant and radiator from working properly. You may see this sludge buildup yourself, and it may look like rust or may be black or brown. A professional mechanic can not only clean this sludge away, but can also pinpoint the cause so that the problem doesn’t happen again.

These are just some of the reasons why engines overheat, but there are many others. The best thing you can do when your engine is overheating is call the service professionals at Seacoast Mazda for a prompt diagnosis and repair.

What is Included in a Cooling System Service?

Getting a regular cooling system service can ensure that all the parts are working properly so that you don’t end up on the side of the road with an engine that’s too hot to function. A cooling system service can vary based on the particular needs of your vehicle, but generally, it starts with draining the old coolant and replacing it with fresh liquid. The coolant can collect contaminants over time, so draining and replacing it can remove those potential hazards to your engine.

A thermostat check usually comes next to ensure that it is working properly and can monitor your engine’s temperature accurately. Older vehicles may need to have the thermostat replaced as a precautionary measure before it fails.

The service usually concludes with a visual check or a deeper diagnostic analysis of the cooling system, including the radiator, hoses, and water pump. If you are reporting any problems, our technicians will look carefully for the cause of those issues and ensure that no underlying problems go unaddressed. We also check related hoses and belts, and we conclude the service by properly disposing of any chemicals or parts.

Water Pump Service and Replacement

Your vehicle’s water pump is responsible for circulating the coolant and water mixture through your radiator. If it fails, the radiator fails and the engine suffers. The water pump needs regular service, and in the case of any problems, it needs immediate repair.

Signs that you may have a problem with your water pump include:

• Engine overheating
• Water spots under the vehicle
• Noises coming from the pump

You may also notice that your display gauge’s continue to show a higher-than-normal temperature for your engine. If you notice these or any other signs that you think might indicate a problem with your water pump or cooling system, bring in your vehicle immediately. Our expert technicians will diagnose your vehicle and make the appropriate repair or service.

When Do You Need a Cooling System Service?

The best way to know when you need a cooling system service is to check your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. These will vary based on the make and model of the vehicle. You may also need to get a service more quickly based on your driving habits or your local climate.

Generally, most vehicles need to get a cooling system service every two years. Of course, if you notice signs of a problem, you should take your vehicle in for a diagnosis much sooner – even if you just had a cooling system service a few months ago. Always call a qualified mechanic as soon as you notice signs of trouble. You’ll protect your vehicle and save yourself a lot of trouble.

Call the Service Experts at Seacoast Mazda Today

The service professionals at Seacoast Mazda provide complete service and repairs for the entire cooling system, including the water pump, as well as all your vehicle’s other major systems and components. We offer flexible hours and exceptional service to make your visits more convenient and comfortable. Call us today to schedule a service for your cooling system or to discuss another service or repair.