2001 Honda Civic- My car is overheating and I have checked everything to make sure it is working. I noticed the car heats up while its running but cools down while its idle. I also noticed my fans dont come on at all, but they do work, Ive checked it. Lastley, My top hose gets hot but the bottom hose is cold. What is the problem?

 

The upper radiator hose getting hot, while the lower hose remains cold means the thermostat hasn't open yet.

 

you need a new Honda OEM thermostat, don't buy aftermarket

 

I had a similar problem with my 2005 LX, it ended up being something simple a small fuse or relay for the fans wasn't working correctly. In the meantime you can override by using the AC button which should kick on the fans. I'd usually do that and set the temp to the hottest, it was uncomfortable but it let the temp gauge go down to normal until I could stop.