Automotive Forums

For the last two days, the needle on the temperature gauge inside the vehicle has been steadying right around the "high normal" area.  The engine is sounding rough and the fan seems to be working overtime trying to keep the engine cool.  I took it to the auto repair shop, and they did a pressure test on the cooling system and determined that there was a hole in the radiator hose, and the radiator was drained and bone dry, blowing steam out of it.  So, we had the hose replaced, refilled with fluid.

Initially, it seemed to correct the problem.  But, later in the day, the needle on the temperature gauge has spiked again in the "high normal" area and again, the smell of anti-freeze is prevalent.

Is it possible the radiator is bad and needs replaced, or a thermostat needs replaced?  

I have looked through the manuals that came with my 1999 Nissan Quest GLE minivan, and they don't say anything about this?

Can someone help me out before I end up sinking hundreds of dollars into this?

Sincerely,

Anthony and Lisa