What is a major sign of a failing water pump?

A major sign of a failing water pump is engine overheating. The water pump plays a crucial role in the engine's cooling system by circulating coolant through the engine to absorb heat and then through the radiator to release that heat. When the water pump fails, coolant flow can be disrupted, leading to insufficient cooling of the engine. This can result in higher operating temperatures and potentially dangerous overheating, which can cause serious engine damage if not addressed. Identifying engine overheating as a symptom of a failing water pump allows for timely maintenance, preventing more costly repairs down the line. The other signs listed, while related to engine function, do not directly indicate a water pump failure as clearly as overheating does.