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1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee “maybe” water pump problem.
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WestCoastWilson
New User
Mar 5, 2011, 9:17 AM
Post #1 of 3
(4565 views)
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1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee “maybe” water pump problem.
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I have a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, 3.0 engine (6 cylinders), with approximately 175,000 miles.
I purchased my Jeep brand new, I really like my Jeep, and it has served me well over the years. Of course since 1996, I have had the regular troubles that go wrong with an aging vehicle.
Since I just discovered this discussion board, I thought I would try my luck to see what type of helpful information I may get.
About a month ago, a high pitched blowing air type noise started in the engine compartment. Yet I did not think much of it since my Jeep drove normally and it did not appear to be an engine problem, yet the coolant level low light came on about a week after the high pitch noise started. So I could see that the radiator was full, but upon looking at the coolant reservoir, the coolant was about 1/2 inch below the fill line, yet the reservoir was about 3/4ths full. So I added enough coolant back up to the fill line, in the reservoir. The high pitched blowing air type noise continued, yet from time-to-time, I could see a fine white steam vapor coming out the grill of my Jeep. Yet every time I popped the hood, the vapor was no longer visible and nor could I see where it might be coming from. Yet I could not see any other problems at that time. Then just up out of the blue while driving down a neighborhood street, a loud ongoing helicopter like noise started in the engine compartment, just a few days ago. The noise was louder when stopped vs. driving. When I pulled up in my driveway and popped the hood, I could not see anything out of the ordinary (as I thought a fan belt broke originally). Yet I knew something was wrong. So I backed out of the driveway, and then that is when I saw a coolant spot on the driveway, it was about 3 ½ inches in diameter. Yet I looked in the garage (the spot where I park my Jeep), I see no coolant on the floor. So after doing some research online, I am about 75% sure it is the water pump . . . since I believe the helicopter noise is being caused by the water pump ball bearings going bad. However other than the one day, I do not see any coolant leaking and the coolant level in both the radiator and reservoir remain full.
Since I am low on funds right now, due to the economy and our $3.80 gallon gas in Los Angeles (today), how long of a life does a water pump typically have when it is making all of these loud noises?
Since I am not mechanically inclined, I can not install a new water pump or fix this problem myself, and nor can I afford to take it to the Jeep dealer. Yet at the end of this month, I expect to scrape up enough money to get it fixed if the repair cost is not too expensive.
Though there does not appear to be any coolant leaking, am I causing any damage by driving? I can live with the loud water pump noise until I get it fixed . . . as it kinda sounds like the first generation of Diesel cars we had back in the 70's. LOL!!!
Yet it seems that every since that helicopter noise started, I now smell coolant fluid whenever the engine is warm/hot . . . but not when it is cold. However, I have only driven my Jeep once since the helicopter noise started.
Now with that being said, while doing some of my Internet research, someone had suggested to someone (in order to save money), that they might consider going to one of their local Technical Schools for their water pump repair, as they tend to charge a minimal amount vs. going to the dealer or to a ma-and-pa garage. It sounds like a great idea, which I had never considered before, since I never had thought about going to a Technical School for my auto repair needs. Yet as I pondered that thought, I know people do go to barber and beautician schools for cut-rate haircuts and hair styling (usually with mixed results). However upon reading online about a water pump repair, it seems that replacing a water pump is a simple and quick job “if” you know what you are doing, so that is why I was wondering what might happen if I take it to a Technical School . . . as it sounds like something that they could do quick and easy.
Plus I also would like to know, if it is in fact that my water pump going bad, how long does it typically take before the water pump dies and is it safe to drive a vehicle when the water pump “is going” bad?
Your thoughts?
Wilson
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 5, 2011, 10:03 AM
Post #2 of 3
(4562 views)
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Re: 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee “maybe” water pump problem.
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I hate to break the news to you but your car is not drivable now. It's on the verge of coming apart and doing a low more damage. If you overheat the engine before it comes apart, you'll be looking at a couple thousand in repairs.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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WestCoastWilson
New User
Mar 5, 2011, 10:35 AM
Post #3 of 3
(4553 views)
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Re: 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee “maybe” water pump problem.
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Thanks Hammer Time. I appreciate your help and input.
Wilson
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