This something I never did with my previous Maxima 97. I can spin all the way through 1st and I can break the tires loose while in first gear. There are 2 sides to this story the encouraging thing is a have not added the Y pipe yet so the car will only get quicker. The downside is this incredible power only last about 10 minutes (until the engine gets to operating temp) obviously we loose power with heat increase but the car takes it to the extreme. I remember in previous Maximas the temp gauge normally sits about ¼ of the way up. On this car once the engine get to operating temps it is sitting ½ way up the temp gauge, so I think I am loosing additional power because the engine although is not running hot is is running (I think) a little too high.

Do you guys think the thermostat is not opening all the way or is it the staggering 361K miles?


Thanks

 

I'd be happy if the engine starts up at all at 361K Miles!!! Have you replaced the thermostat ever?

 

No he just bought the car! It could be the thermostat!

 

My needle always runs exactly half way, any temperature outside.
I'm guessing if you loose power after the car has heated up, it's just due to a block with a lot of miles on it.
By all means, look into the thermostat, but if the power loss is great, that is likely caused by something else... age? seals... something...

Nice mileage!! Hope I get that someday!!

dave h.

 

My temp gauge is always in the middle too

 

 

The temp gauge isn't an exact measurement, it's only there to warn if you are getting too hot.

There are two sensors, one for the ecu and one for the dash. The ecu one is acurate. The dash one usually only moves if your are starting to overheat.

 

Wow i never knew maximas last that long

 

Ah beating up on your car like that BEFORE it's warmed up is a BIG NO-NO. did you just get this car? Or have you been doing this for 361k miles?

 

wow, 361k!! that is very impressive. my 3rd gen has 251k on it. good ol' nissan.

 

I let the car warm up for about 30 seconds. At this point I am expecting to replace the engine within a year. I was just amazed at the amount of power "this" Maxima has when it is not at operating temp and how fast the that extra zip goes away. Strange I thought the temp gaguge stayed in the 1/4 level on the temp gauge.