i have two neons 1996 and a 1997, i want to know how to check to see if the water pump needs replacing? what to listen for? or look for? ]

i bought the 97 for a commuter car for work. i know that the water pump can cause timing belt failure if it snaps, so i want to check all the things that can leave me stranded on the side of the road !

There is nothing to check on a water pump other than the weep hole for leakage or a if it is running hot other symptoms.

BTW, here is the Neon section

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen-neon-77/