Nissan Repair: 98 nissan maxima overheating, radiator flush, nissan maxima

Question
QUESTION: Hello Calvin,
I have a 98 nissan maxima and my car has been overheating ive took it to a machanic and they said the radiator cap was faulty so i replaced it ive got a radiator flush but it still overheats they said the thermostat was ok and the water pump was working but i dont think they physical check those parts and the fans do kick on and the engine runs fine no probmles on a minor egr check engine code do you know if theres and other problem that would cause my car to overheat? Thank you

ANSWER: Hi Anthony -

Can you tell me if the car overheats right away when you start driving it (20 minutes), or does it take longer?

Does it heat up faster in stop and go traffic, or longer drives?

Any other info you can give me will be helpful.

Let me know -
aloha
calvin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: It's takes longer and it heats up when I drive fast or go long distances

Answer
Hi Anthony

When the engine is cold, open the radiator cap and start the engine. If you see water circulating, try replacing the thermostat. What is happening is the water is circulating too fast through the system, it does not have a chance to cool through the radiator. The thermostat is stuck open.

Another thing it could be is your radiator. Are the fins still intact and clear of leaves, debris? Open the drain petcock and see if water comes out, and if it is rusty or not. If no water comes out or if it is very dirty, the radiator could be internally clogged and needs replacement. Sometimes a flush does not clear this.

Also, if you have no power up the hills or accelerating, the transmission could be slipping, causing excessive RPM's and consequently overheating. Pull the transmission dipstick and smell the oil if it is burned and discolored (brown instead of red).

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin