Causes of Water Pump Leaks in a MINI

Just like any other vehicle, MINIs need maintenance and can run into problems whether it be through lack of care or special circumstances. Water pumps are subject to leaks, and when it happens, you need to know why so you can have the problem fixed quickly. We will show you what to look for and why your water pump may be leaking as well as how to prevent it from happening in the future and where to go to have it fixed.

Signs of Water Pump Leakage

You must be aware of the warning signs that come with a water pump leak so that you can catch the problem before it gets worse.

Overheated Engine

If the temperature gauge in your vehicle runs high often, you may be looking at signs of a leaking or broken water pump. If the problem is allowed to continue for an extended period of time, the engine will be damaged even further than it already has. You should take it to be inspected as soon as possible.

Steaming Radiator

If you notice steam coming up from the front of your vehicle, that is another sign that your water pump is leaking or broken and is causing your car to overheat. This is a more immediate and urgent problem. You should pull over and call a mechanic to tow it until you figure out where you need to go.

High Pitched Whining Sounds

If you hear a high pitched whine coming from the front of the vehicle, it is likely that the pulley on the water pump has come loose. Try to end your driving trip as soon as possible before it causes more damage to the car.

Coolant is Leaking

When your water pump is leaking and breaking down, this will often cause the vehicle to leak coolant onto the ground. Coolant is usually either red or green in color, so check when you pull out of a parking space for a stain or drip in the front-center of your car.

Reasons Why Your Water Pump May Be Leaking

Now that you know how to identify the signs of water pump leakage in your MINI, you need to understand why this may be happening.

Using the Wrong Coolant

You must use the correct coolant for your vehicle to keep it running smoothly. You must also use something approved instead of a contaminated fluid. If you use the wrong one or mix two, you run the risk of damaging both the water pump and other parts of your car with abrasive or contaminated substances.

Improperly Lubricated Pump

If you let your vehicle run low on coolant, the rotating parts of the water pump will operate dry. Doing so wears down the sealant on the pump and causes the rest of the coolant to leak out.

Defective Belt Drive

A defective or worn down belt drive causes the water pump to seize and destroy itself.

How to Prevent Water Pump Leakage

You need to take your MINI to a proper auto shop, but there are a few tips to keep your water pump from leaking in the first place:

• Flush out the old coolant and replace it with whatever your vehicle manufacturer recommends.
• Have your belt drive and water pump replaced at the same time to ensure that both are working without damage, as they can destroy one another if the belt is faulty.

Where to Replace Your Water Pump

When you notice these problems, always take your MINI into an auto shop that specializes in foreign and imported vehicles such as your own. Not every mechanic knows how to handle these models, so be sure that you hire someone who knows what they are talking about.

You are in luck because Cerrone’s European is qualified and prepared to fix your MINI up in no time. We are a family owned business operating out of Redwood City, CA. We have been servicing special vehicles like yours since 1976, so you can rest assured that your MINI is in great hands! If you are in the area, stop by and have your water pump replaced before it becomes an even bigger problem.

We guarantee the best service possible.