I have a 2001 chevy malibu and need to know how to check if the water pump needs replaced. The engine has been running much hotter than normal and is leaking coolant.
have a plumer come look at it every so often
Normally if the water pump is bad it will be leaking fluid from a little weep hole right under the pulley bearings. If you have fluid coming from there then yes it needs to be replaced.
It completely depends on where its leaking coolant from. If it's leaking from the water pump drive, yes, you need to replace it. If its running hotter than normal, it could be a number of things, but still could lead back to the waterpump.
Remove the belt and try to turn it by hand. If it makes a growling noise or you can feel roughness in the bearing, then you should replace the pump. Also, look for any leaks anywhere around the water pump that would suggest it needs replacement. If there's no roughness or leaks at the pump, look elsewhere for a leak. Also check your radiator cap to make sure it's holding the proper pressure. Also check your thermostat to make sure it isn't starting to fail. Check to make sure your radiator fans come on too.
