how to tell if the water pump is the problem

[Big L]

hi guys ive got this problem with my LCR , basically only when im in traffic for prolonged periods the temperature sometimes creeps up to say 95-7 never goes to red light and not that high before the big fan kicks in and temp goes back to 90 , and the water level is always fine . The cambelt was done and ive read its common for the water pump to be done at the same time how can i tell if it was? is this a big expense? and what other things could be causing this .

anyhelp is welcomed many thanks

 

[towcester vag]

you cant tell visibly
was it on your invoice?
to check water pump flow if you look at the small hose going to expansion bottle coolant should be pumping through that hose into bottle

 

[Slimy]

If you water pump wasn't working your temperature wouldn't drop. The radiator would get nice and cold from the fan but the water wouldn't get to the engine so that would just get hotter and hotter.

It's more likely to be either the thermostat or the temperature sender.

 

[petey085]

Also are your low speed fans working?

 

[sockpuppet]

Mine started going just over the 90 and it was the thermostat, replaced it and then it was fine.

 

[Big L]

thanks guys ive been told its likely to be a thermostat but should have the water pump up rated to a metal impeller version thanks for your help