Nissan Sentras have been known to overheat due to collapsed radiator hoses, plugged up catalytic converters, and clogged cooling tubes in the radiator. There have even been Sentra recalls related to overheating crankshaft position sensors.
The most common cause of overheating is a lack of engine coolant. Check your fluid levels. There are hot and cold marks on the coolant reservoir. If fluid isn't between the lines, even though you recently filled it, a coolant leak could be the culprit.
The engine cooling fan helps move air through the radiator when you're not going fast enough for air to be forced through naturally. The fan turns on when your engine thermostat shows operating temperature has been reached. If either your thermostat or fan is broken, it can cause your engine to overheat.
2002 and 2005-2006 Sentras equipped with 2.5-liter engines were recalled due to the crankshaft position sensor overheating. This causes an interruption in the sensor's signal which can cause the engine to cut off with no warning. If you suspect your overheating is stemming from this known Sentra problem, take your car to a Nissan dealer to see if you are covered under the recall.
