# 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.