# 3

Pay attention to the car's ventilation system. A malfunctioning water pump my cause fluid to come through the vents of your car's fans or air-conditioning system. You may also notice a strong coolant smell when you turn on your cooling system.
# 4

Listen for a screeching noise. If you can hear such a noise near the front of your car when you start the car, that could be a sign of a failing water pump.
# 5

Monitor your car's temperature. If the car's engine is overheating regularly, the engine is not getting enough coolant. Check to make sure your coolant levels are topped off; if you keep running out of coolant, the water pump could be cracked and leaking coolant.