leaking water pump?

1999 DODGE INTREPID

15,300 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC

AVI.WEI

MEMBER
1 POST

This morning i was driving my car, everything seemed normal until i got home (it was early & still dark). i got out of my car & it was smoking. My temperature gauge read at the half way mark. after it cooled i notice it did not have any coolant. so i put some coolant in it & drove it around for a bit. i parked the car & went inside. after i came out notice there was a little puddle of coolant, where could it be coming from? Do I need to change the water pump?

Sep 20, 2008 at 4:24 PM

SQM

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Coolant can be leaking from number of areas.
It could be the water pump, also can be any of the houses or the thermostat housing, the radiator or the coolant reservoir.
The coolant system consists of rubber hoses, gaskets and seals which are subject to engine heat and vibration which in time can cause these items to fail and start leaking antifreeze.
You will first need to visually check to see where the leak is coming from.

Here is a helpful article on finding coolant leak:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-leak-symptoms

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.

Aug 2, 2021 at 1:26 PM

Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.