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“Why Does My Engine Overheat Under Load — Is the Water Pump Failing to Circulate Coolant?”

“Why Does My Engine Overheat Under Load — Is the Water Pump Failing to Circulate Coolant?”

During a long drive, city traffic jam, o r while the AC is blasting, some drivers notice engine temperature rising quickly, o r the gauge creeping beyond normal — even though coolant level seems fine and radiator appears normal. Could a weak o r failing water pump not circulating coolant properly be the cause? How can one diagnose whether its bad coolant circulation rather than thermostat o r radiator issues?
Talha Kyanii asked on 06 Dec 2025 09:51:24 am
1 Answer
6 views |
Gari Master - on 06 Dec 2025 09:52:21 am
A failing water pump may not circulate coolant properly, causing overheating. Causes include:

Worn impeller: Inside the pump, the impeller can erode o r break, reducing flow.

Air trapped in the system: Improper bleeding of coolant can prevent full circulation.

Timing belt/drive issues: In some engines, the water pump is belt-driven a slipping belt reduces pump speed.

How to check:

Observe coolant flow in the radiator with the engine warm.

Look for overheating specifically under load o r AC use, which suggests insufficient circulation.

If thermostat and radiator are functioning, suspect the water pump.

Replace the pump if circulation is weak o r impeller damaged.
 

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