My 2002 ss is leaking coolant. I think it's my water pump but I don't know how to tell for sure. How can I figure out if it's the water pump or something else?

 

You need to see the leak. You might need to use a mirror and flashlight to look around with, but the most common leak is from a crack in the plastic coolant/heater elbows connected to the belt tensioner above the water pump. The forward elbow is visible, but the one behind it is hidden by the tensioner, so you''ll need a mirror to see it. Get the engine warm to operating temperature so the thermostat is open and turn on the heater so coolant is circulating through the whole system, then look for a fine mist or spray from those areas. If you find this is the cause replace both elbows with aluminum ones made by Dorman, available on the "help" rack at any auto parts store.

 

plumbob hit the nail on the head with his info

 

another way that might be easier, maybe a bit safer is to get a coolant pressure tester, while the car is cold attach to radiator neck and pump to the right pressure, where ever you have leaks at should be apparent

 

Thanks plumbob! You were exactly right. Once the engine was warm I could see the coolant coming right from that little elbow hose. It was a super easy fix and she's been doing amazing ever since.

 

Congratulations on a successful repair Trent!