How do I know if my Ford Explorer water pump is bad?

Signs of a Bad Water Pump in a Ford Explorer
If you suspect that your Ford Explorer’s water pump may be bad, there are several signs you can look out for:
1. Overheating: A bad water pump can cause the engine to overheat. If you notice that your engine temperature is consistently higher than normal, it could be a sign of a faulty water pump.
2. Leaking Coolant: A leaking water pump can cause coolant to drip or spray from the engine. Check for any signs of coolant leaks under your vehicle or around the water pump area.
3. Engine Damage: In some cases, a failed water pump can lead to engine damage. If the water pump is not functioning properly, it may not be circulating coolant through the engine, which can result in engine overheating and potential damage.
4. Unusual Noises: A failing water pump may produce unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking sounds. If you hear any abnormal noises coming from the engine area, it’s worth checking the water pump.
5. Coolant Contamination: A bad water pump can cause coolant and oil to mix, resulting in coolant contamination. If you notice a milky or frothy substance in your oil or coolant, it could be a sign of a faulty water pump.
It’s important to note that while these signs can indicate a bad water pump, they may also be symptoms of other issues. If you suspect a problem with your water pump, it’s recommended to have a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose the issue.
Checking for Water Pump Recalls
To check if there are any open recalls for the water pump in your Ford Explorer, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. You will need the vehicle identification number (VIN), year, make, and model of your Explorer to enter. The website will provide information on any open recalls for your vehicle.
If there is a recall for the water pump, it’s important to contact Ford Motor Company at 1-800-392-3673. They will provide you with the necessary information and guidance to follow up on the recall.
Additional Information
While there have been some complaints related to water pump issues in Ford Explorers, there are currently no water pump recalls for the Ford Explorer. However, it’s worth noting that some Ford Explorer owners have reported water pump leakage, water pump failure leading to engine damage, and coolant and oil mixing inside the engine.
If you have further questions or concerns about your Ford Explorer’s water pump, it may be helpful to consult online forums or communities dedicated to Ford Explorer owners, such as r/FordExplorer on Reddit. These platforms provide a space for owners to share their experiences and insights.
Remember, regular maintenance and following the manufacturer’s recommendations for coolant and oil changes can help prevent potential issues with the water pump and other components of your Ford Explorer.
I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

How much does it cost to fix a water pump in a Ford Explorer?

The average cost for a Ford Explorer Water Pump Replacement is between $984 and $1,167. Labor costs are estimated between $570 and $719 while parts are priced between $414 and $448.

Can I still drive my car with a bad water pump?

It is not advisable to drive a car with a bad water pump. Signs of a bad water pump like leakage, smoke, and overheating should be addressed with immediate effect. A completely damaged water pump can cause a complete engine failure. Replacing a water pump is the solution to all these problems.

Do Ford Explorers have water pump issues?

Water pump inside engine mixing coolant and oil
Ford Motor Company recorded the problems of many water pump issues, and Ford Explorer owners reported over several to Ford and several review companies. This article will mention how Ford worked to fix the consumers’ issues for those who had the water pump fail.

How long does a water pump last on a Ford Explorer?

A failing water pump can also leak causing further loss of coolant. Water pumps are designed to last at least 100,000 miles, however, if your water pump fails, you should replace it with a high-quality original-equipment level unit.

How do I know if my water pump is bad without leaks?

Another symptom of a failing water pump is engine noise. If you hear a squealing noise coming from the front of your engine, it could be an indication that the water pump is starting to fail. This noise is usually caused by a loose or damaged pulley that the water pump uses to circulate coolant.

What are 3 ways you can tell if a water pump is bad?

Itself might not be the source of the noise. The sound could be the result of a failing water pump pulley or a loose drive belt. Another classic sign of a failing water pump is coolant leakage.

How does a car act when the water pump is going out?

Overheating. A dead or dying water pump cannot circulate coolant through your vehicle’s engine and, as such, the engine will overheat. The hotter the engine gets the greater the chance of serious damage, including a cracked engine block and damage to the cylinders, pistons, and head gasket.

How do I check if my water pump is working?

Put the car back together but leave the thermostat out. If the water pump is good then it should not over heat. If you can see into the radiator with the car running then you should be seeing coolant circulating if the water pump is good.

How do I test my water pump?

Start your car’s engine with the hood up. If you hear a low-pitched grinding noise, it may indicate that your water pump bearing is going bad. You can often hear it plainly if it’s gone bad.

Is there a recall on Ford Explorer water pump?

Why hasn’t there been a Ford Water Pump recall? Despite receiving numerous complaints, Ford has failed to initiate a recall for the water pumps in Ford Explorer and Ford Flex models. Adding to the frustration, the dismissal of the class action suit against the manufacturer in 2020 further exacerbates the issue.