1. Park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and locate the thermostat housing. It is usually located near the top of the engine, close to the radiator.
3. Remove the two bolts that hold the thermostat housing in place.
4. Carefully remove the thermostat housing and gasket. Be careful not to spill any coolant.
5. Remove the old thermostat from the housing.
6. Install the new thermostat in the housing. Make sure that the thermostat is seated properly and that the gasket is in place.
7. Reinstall the thermostat housing and bolts.
8. Tighten the bolts until they are snug.
9. Refill the coolant reservoir with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water.
10. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the thermostat housing.
The cost of a new thermostat for a 1990 Nissan Maxima is typically between $20 and $30. The cost of labor to replace the thermostat will vary depending on the shop you choose. Most shops will charge between $50 and $100 for the labor.
Here are some additional tips for replacing a thermostat:
* Make sure that the car is cool before you start working on it.
* Wear gloves to protect your hands from coolant.
* Be careful not to spill any coolant on the ground, as it can be dangerous to pets and children.
* If you are not comfortable replacing the thermostat yourself, you can take your car to a qualified mechanic.