Overheating problem

2000 NISSAN MAXIMA
200,000 MILES • 3.0L • V6 • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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EDDY1991
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  • 44 POSTS
hi
I got a problem in maxima that it overheat in traffic while the ac is on. The problem is mostly in traffic when i drive slow in hot weather.
After it get overheated it stop changing the gears.
Then i have to make it cold by putting water on to the radiator.

I already changed radiator twice.
Head gasket?

There is no sign of water and oil getting mix.

Thanks
Mar 28, 2015 at 1:38 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,246 POSTS
Even thought you do not have coolant in the oil the head gasket can still be blown. Do this chemical test to confirm the failure.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Please run down this guide and report back

Cheers
Mar 28, 2015 at 1:53 PM
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EDDY1991
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Both the fans are working properly and i live in saudi arabia so the weather is hot always so i already removed the thermostat totally.

Mar 28, 2015 at 1:56 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,246 POSTS
If you removed the thermostat, that could be the problem. If it isn't there, the coolant can flow too fast (no restriction) and not have enough time to cool in the radiator.
Mar 28, 2015 at 2:08 PM
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EDDY1991
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  • 44 POSTS
Okay I will reinstall the thermostat and report back
Mar 28, 2015 at 2:10 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Lets start with that since we know if it a possible cause. There are other things, but I don't like putting the cart before the horse. lol
Mar 30, 2015 at 1:38 AM
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EDDY1991
  • MEMBER
  • 44 POSTS
I installed both the thermostat and checked the car again in same traffic and the problem is same. stopped changing gears and i made it cool by giving the radiator proper bath and that;s it again it started working after few minutes. So I check for a blown head gasket and you were right it has one, turned yellow. now its going to be $$$ to fix
Mar 30, 2015 at 5:19 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,246 POSTS
Sorry about that.

Use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help. Please tell a friend.

Cheers, Ken
Mar 30, 2015 at 11:04 PM
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