2023-2026 Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Jeep Water Pump Drip

Owners of 2023-2026 Alfa Romeo, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles might observe coolant traces or dripping near the water pump. This manufacturer communication, identified as TSB 9100723 and NHTSA ID 11025520, addresses concerns about coolant leaks from the water pump's weeper chamber, providing guidance for proper diagnosis and repair.

The water pump's weeper chamber is specifically designed to collect small amounts of coolant, typically less than 3 ml/h, that might pass through the dynamic seal. Therefore, not all visible coolant traces indicate a problem. Understanding the distinction between normal operation and a true malfunction is crucial for addressing this potential issue.

Symptoms of a Potential Water Pump Issue

Owners may notice small traces of coolant around the water pump, particularly near the weeper chamber. While red traces or shadows might appear during initial vehicle operation due to seal adaptation or vapor condensation, these are generally not signs of a leak. However, continuous dripping of coolant from the weeper chamber indicates a malfunction that requires attention. If you observe a persistent Alfa Romeo Tonale water pump drip, further investigation is warranted.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

To accurately diagnose a potential water pump malfunction, a specific procedure should be followed. First, the vehicle needs to be lifted using an elevator to allow for a clear view of the water pump and its weeper chamber. Technicians must then visually confirm if coolant is actively dripping from the weeper chamber.

Next, the engine should be run at idle, with the speed alternating between 2000 and 4000 rpm, for a duration of 15 minutes. During this test, the weeper chamber must be carefully observed. This dynamic test helps to simulate various operating conditions and determine if the dripping is consistent or temporary.

Repair Procedure Summary

Based on the observations during the diagnostic test, the appropriate action can be determined. If coolant continues to drip from the weeper chamber after the 15-minute engine run test, it indicates a malfunction, possibly due to permanent damage to the dynamic seal. In such cases, the water pump should be replaced. The relevant part numbers for the water pump are 05048616AS and 05048710AS.

Conversely, if the coolant dripping stops during or after the test, no further action is necessary. The vehicle can be returned to the customer, as the initial traces were likely due to normal seal adaptation or condensation, not a persistent leak.

Important Warnings

It is critical not to confuse leaks originating from the weeper chamber with leaks from other components. Specifically, technicians and owners should differentiate weeper chamber drips from leaks originating from the Press-In-Place rubber gasket, which is located between the water pump and the engine block, or from the inlet pipe nipples. Misidentifying the source of the leak could lead to unnecessary repairs or a failure to address the actual problem.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023-2026 Alfa Romeo, Dodge, or Jeep vehicle and suspect a coolant leak or observe an Alfa Romeo Tonale water pump drip, it is recommended to have your vehicle inspected by an authorized service center. Reference Manufacturer Communication 9100723 (NHTSA ID 11025520) when discussing the issue with your technician. They can perform the outlined diagnostic procedure to determine if the water pump requires replacement or if the coolant traces are part of normal operation.

Source: NHTSA ID 11025520