Car (2001, gle, 70k, stock engine) has been feeling a lot more sluggish lately , I wanted to see if it really is getting worse or is it that iam getting way too used to it. ANy easy way to test the performance? Only thing scheduled to be changed are the spark plugs. Could the plugs be such a big factor in performance of the car? Also anyone know how important it is to flush the radiator, what problems could occur if this is not done routinely?

 

you are the best indicator....

if you feel that the car is not performing as it should, or like it used to, then more than likely you are correct.

remember, no one knows your car like you do... go with your gut feeling.

 

Flushing the radiator is a longevity thing. You should do it per Nissan's recommended intervals.
If you let it go without doing it, cooling system problems will creep up on you. Prolonged overheating and/or frequent cooling system issues can trash your engine. I highly suggest flushing it at the recommended interval.

 

BTW, with your engine I highly recommend trying the following at your option and/or leisure:

SeaFoam
Fuel filter change

Do the fuel filter change before using seafoam. Pay a dealer to do it if you're not up to the job. Tell them you'd like to have it done on your own perogative. Also, if they provide an engine cleaning service (e.g. using BG products) you can have that done instead of using SeaFoam.

 

Resetting the ECU and a can or two of bg44k often makes a difference.

 

go to a drag strip and get some times. you might just be getting used to the speed of the car and it is feeling slow. Thats what's been happening to me lately. Time to upgrade to a 300ZX Turbo this winter for me!

 

Stop watch,
Drag strip,
G-tech.

I've been playing with a G-tech lately. It's kind of fun.

 

I was debating on getting the G-tech Pro, that lateral G thing looks pretty cool.