1996 Nissan Maxima Temperature Fluctuations

SHANKS1233

MEMBER
1996 NISSAN MAXIMA
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
125,000 MILES

My temperature recently started flucuating. It started after I noticed my car was overheating, I checked the coolant and noticed it was low. I filled the coolant. Now the temp gauge rises during slow and stopped traffic, but falls down to normal during faster consistant speeds.

1 Reply

IMPALASS

MECHANIC
3,112 POSTS

Hello -

To better assist you is your model a GLE, GXE, or SE? Also what is your engine size in liter?

I show these models can have either electrical radiator cooling fans or mechanical. Are you able to tell the difference?

If they are electrical and you know they are, then please do this. When the car is cold, open the hood and make sure the AC and fan are off. Start the car....... Are the cooling fans turning? They should not be.

Now turn the AC and fan on high....... Are the cooling fans turning..... They should be.

Please go to Auto Zone (AZ) or O'Reilly's (OR) and for FREE they can pull the codes to the car. Most important: Once they check your codes, if they find something and you don't get it fixed and need to get back with us, please make sure you tell us exactly what the code was, number and all. Example, if the code was E0568 O2 Sensor bad. Then make sure you give us all of that. While there for FREE also they can bring their tester out and check your battery and alternator.