How do I know if my water pump is working?

There are several safe ways to inspect if your car may need a replacement water pump.

Step 1: Check the temperature gauge.
Step 2: Listen for noises.
Step 3: Check the air temperature.
Step 4: Check water pump pulley.
Step 5: Check for leaks.
Step 6: Inspect the coolant reservoir.

What should I do if my temp.gauge says zero?

A quick test is to disconnect the lead from the sending unit, turn on the ignition and observe the temp. gauge. If it registers ‘zero’ then most probably the sending unit is faulty.

Why is the temperature gauge pinned hot on my Honda?

Cut repair costs, not quality. Since you are experiencing no overheating problems the most likely cause is that the engine coolant temperature sending unit is faulty. This sends a signal directly to the dashboard gauge. There is another coolant temperature sensor close by which sends a signal to the ECU to help in engine management.

Is it normal for the temp.gauge to go red hot?

Yes, coolant level is fine! The temp. gauge goes to red hot or pinned as soon as I start the car cold. And…after approx. 15 min. driving locally, the engine doesn’t seem to be overheated. so I’m assuming that the thermostat is working fine. I’m just afraid to drive it longer or farther when the temp. gauge says red hot.

What should the temperature gauge be on a hot engine?

With a hot engine it should measure 30-50 Ohms. If you measure around this value (or definitely not near 140 Ohms) with a cold engine then the unit is faulty and needs to be replaced. A quick test is to disconnect the lead from the sending unit, turn on the ignition and observe the temp. gauge.

A quick test is to disconnect the lead from the sending unit, turn on the ignition and observe the temp. gauge. If it registers ‘zero’ then most probably the sending unit is faulty.