Car running hot, overheating?

1997 NISSAN MAXIMA
251,000 MILES
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ANTHONY0910
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  • 3 POSTS
Yeah, my car is overheating. I took the radiator out flush it out snow regularly nowhere the heaters not getting hot do you think it's the thermostat.
Jun 30, 2023 at 2:46 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

Even if the t-stat is stuck shut, you should get heat. To me, it sounds like there is an air block in the cooling system. That can prevent the heater from working.

Also, when refilling this system, the manufacturer recommends the use of a coolant refill tool, Nissan tool # J-45695. See the technical service bulletin below.

As far as the heater issue is concerned, this is my first suspect. As far as the thermostats are concerned, because they are not expensive, I do suggest replacing it.

Here is a link that explains in general how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat

Also, I feel once the air is removed from the system, the heater will start working again. It may not overheat either since you flushed the radiator.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

joe

See pics below.
Jun 30, 2023 at 10:22 PM
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ANTHONY0910
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  • 3 POSTS
After changing my thermostat in the car it will not crank now.
Jul 1, 2023 at 12:39 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

When you say it won't start, do you mean the starter won't engage or it does, but the engine fails to start?

Also, I attached the directions below for replacing the thermostat. Let me know if there is anything you may have missed or if you have questions,

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.
Jul 1, 2023 at 7:30 PM
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ANTHONY0910
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Thank you for getting back with me and yes it tries but will not start I have tried changing batteries and checked the alternator and still nothing. What's strange is it didn't do this until I changed the thermostat.
Jul 1, 2023 at 8:37 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

That is odd. However, anything is possible.

So, we need to narrow down what could be causing the crank no start. Here is what I want you to do. See if the engine starts and then stalls if you use starting fluid. If it does, then we know its fuel related. If there is no change, we need to check for ignition spark to the spark plugs.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Let me know what you find. Also, let me know if when replacing the thermostat, coolant leaked onto any part of the engine or drive belt area.

Take care,

joe
Jul 1, 2023 at 10:35 PM