If your engine is leaking coolant or antifreeze, THAT DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN YOU NEED A WATER PUMP! There are many places where coolant can leak out.
Properly called a coolant circulation pump, the water pump pushes the coolant through the cooling system. The water pump is driven by a shaft that protrudes out of the front of the water pump. Some vehicles have a secondary water pump which is electrically driven. An internal seal keeps the coolant from leaking past the shaft. However, sooner or later the shaft bearings will fail or the shaft seal will leak. Dirty coolant makes the seal wear out sooner. Some water pumps are driven by the Timing Belt making their replacement somewhat costly. Keeping the coolant clean helps to extend the life of the water pump.
If you think your vehicle may need a water pump or if your vehicle has cooling system problems, bring your vehicle to Clearview Tire & Auto Service for a correct diagnosis and professional guaranteed repairs which includes our Certified Auto Repair Nationwide Warranty. We're in Hopkinsville, not far from Ft. Campbell and we've been here since 1952. Most repairs include one year FREE towing and roadside assistance, good 24/7 coast-to-coast.
See Cooling System Repair and Maintenance for more information.