QuestionI have a 97 Nissan Maxima,V6,3.0 with 130,000 miles. Had O2 and Knock sensors code readings, The sensors were replaced by the mechanic. Two months later,Service engine soon light was back on. Took to the mechanic again. He ran a test and told me it's the O2 sensor.He reset it and told me it could have been caused by bad gas.Reset it.
On the same day, I was driving the car on the highway,when I noticed the temperature gauge high.(Close to "H") Came back to see him. He replaced the thermostat and radiator cap. That did not solve the problem of overheating. At this time, I drove the car to an other mechanic. He started the engine ,rev it up and he noticed the water gushing from the radiator with force. He told me that a head gasket is blown. I moved the car across the street wondering if what I just heard is true.
Asked another mechanic and he did the same thing with the same bad news?
The car is well maintained as it relates to changing oil at very regular intervals and maintaining clean fluids in the car.
How could this happen without some warning signs? Did I miss them? Is it remotely possible that these two mechanics are incorrect? I checked the oil with dipstick and I see no water. The engine is not smoking. Idling right and there has been no loss of power and/or engine stall.
What might have caused this problem? Is there any hope that this could be something else?
Thanks for the information.
AnswerHi Tom -
It is highly unlikely that the car would fail without some prior signs.
OK, let's go step by step. First of all, check the cylinder compression. If they all read OK, then it cannot be a head gasket.
Also check the thermostat. Run the car to operating temperature. Feel the hoses. If one is very hot, and the other is cold, then replace the thermostat and try driving it. Also ensure that you cooling fan goes on.
Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin
