What is a common symptom of a failing water pump?

A common symptom of a failing water pump is the overheating of the engine due to inadequate coolant circulation. The water pump plays a crucial role in the cooling system by circulating coolant throughout the engine and radiator to regulate the engine temperature. If the water pump is failing, it may not effectively circulate the coolant, leading to increased engine temperatures. This can result in overheating, which, if not addressed, may cause severe engine damage.

Understanding the functions of the water pump and the cooling system helps to identify this symptom clearly. Overheating due to a lack of coolant flow can also potentially lead to further issues, such as warped cylinder heads or blown gaskets, which can be costly to repair.