Nissan Altima: 1996 Altima - Cracked radiator and other problems? Suggestions?

Hi! I have a 1996 Altima GXE that recently got a big crack in the top
of the radiator. I tried to seal the crack with some radiator epoxy
to no avail, and right after steam blew through the epoxy, the check
engine light went on and the heat sensor went up up up at idle. I
nursed the car a few blocks home and haven't driven since. I checked
the diagnostic trouble code and came up with - Engine coolant
Temperature sensor function (voltage to ECM low/impractical even after
engine has been on for a while) - which I guess implicates either the
thermostat or engine coolant temperature sensor, assuming the coolant
hadn't run dry. To my question, when I take it in to the mechanic
tomorrow, I should expect to replace the radiator, thermostat, and
possible the ECT sensor, right? And could this be indicitave of a
bigger problem, such as a failed water pump? Any suggestions would be
helpful, as I just bought this car, and I am finding a new mechanic
for the job. This is all new to me, as I have only owned aircooled
VW's in the past! Thanks so much,

Mike

My wife's 1995 Altima had the same radiator failure.

The dealer AND the mechanic (specializes in Nissan) to whom I took it said
it's a common failure and that a new radiator was the best repair.

Cost less than half of what the dealer wanted for the independent mechanic
to do the work. As I recall about $225 or so for the entire job.



John Smith wrote:
 

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