Red Seal Automotive Service Technician Practice Exam

What does a failed water pump typically cause?

1. Reduced fuel efficiency

2. Engine overheating

3. Erratic transmission shifting

4. Low tire pressure

The correct answer is: Engine overheating

A failed water pump typically causes engine overheating because it is a critical component of the vehicle’s cooling system. The water pump circulates coolant through the engine, helping to dissipate heat generated during combustion. If the water pump fails, the flow of coolant stops, leading to insufficient cooling. As the engine continues to run, it generates heat that is not being effectively removed, resulting in increased engine temperatures. If not addressed promptly, engine overheating can lead to serious engine damage, such as a blown head gasket or warped cylinder heads. The other options, while they may have their own issues, are not directly related to the function of the water pump. For example, reduced fuel efficiency could be attributed to various engine performance issues rather than solely to a failed water pump. Erratic transmission shifting relates to the transmission system, and low tire pressure concerns tire condition and inflation, which are independent of the water pump’s operation.