Nissan Repair: 1991 Nissan Maxima, radiator fluid, nissan maxima

Question
I have a 1991 Nissan Maxima - automatic. Over the last few days, while sitting at lights, my car overheats. It doesn't smoke, but the temp gauge goes all the way to hot, and there is a faint scent of radiator fluid (I think!). We replaced the water pump and one radiator hose which busted within the last 4 months. When we look under the hood, there are no apparent problems, broken hoses, etc. Any suggestions?


Answer
Romi,

It sounds like the electric fans are not coming on.  Check to see if the fan works when you are stopped.  If you turn the airconditioner it usually forces both fans to come on.  If not the fan motors are burnt out or the relay is gone.  Now, if the fans work fine I would change the thermostat and the radiator cap.  Be sure to stick with factory Nissan cap and thermostat as they are superior to anything else out there.