07 Ford Explorer overheating problems?

07 Ford Explorer is overheating. Check engine light said replace coolant temperature sensor. Did that but it still overheats. The coolant reservoir is full but when I take the radiator cap off there's nothing in there. Can I put coolant in there? How come coolant from the reservoir isn't going to the radiator. Nothing is leaking could there possibly be a clog or something in between? Or is it the water pump not pushing the coolant to the radiator? Also after the car overheated I opened the from and the radiator cap wasn't hot at all does that mean anything?

Yes, you can pour coolant directly in the radiator, thats normal… I would get a new radiator cap too.

If the coolant is gone in the radiator, its got to be going somewhere.

I think the best thing you can do is take it to a shop where they can look it over,. From what youve said, their are lots of variables that need answering.

I don't know about never cars, but on older cars, the thermostat was near the water pump. When it gets hot, it would open and allow water to flow from the engine to the radiator. Maybe you have a bad thermostat. They used to be cheap parts to buy and semi-easy to install. I haven't done one in over 30 years so I'm not sure now.

https://auto.howstuffworks.com/question248.htm

"Can I put coolant in there?"

Seriously? You can, and you should, immediately.

Replace the radiator cap and get the coolant system pressure tested to find out where it is leaking from. Do not "overthink" the problem.

You should always check the coolant level in the radiator… Not just the reservoir. That way if the radiator cap is bad causing the coolant not to get sucked back into the cooling system you don't over heat the motor. There may also be a coolant leak which is draining the cooling system and keeping the coolant in the reservoir from getting into the radiator because a vacuum is never formed due to the leak. The hose from the reservoir to the radiator can also become plugged up because you didn't change the coolant every 3 years.
Which ever of the things listed is causing the over heating one thing is for sure… You're going to end up with a $2200 head gasket job if you keep over heating the motor! Chck the water pump seep hole to see if coolant pours right out when you add it to the radiator.

Yes, you need to put coolant into the radiator NOT when it is hot it can crack the engine or erupt like old faithful! Once cooled fill it up and check for leaks start it let it warm up the level might drop again and you may need to add more. You need to keep a close eye on it. Once overheated badly an engine's days could be numbered.