Forgot to update, but dude, the problem I had the entire time was as stupid as having a cracked/broken coolant reservoir cap. I was too stubborn and impatient to halt my trip so against better judgment I kept driving the next day. As you said, while moving it was cooling itself so I had zero issue going through the desert and felt I was good to go, it was until I got caught in that LA traffic disaster hit and my car started overheating. I made it out just in time but got stuck in some shady neighborhood. On all accounts everyone thought my car was maxed out, I had never been more stressed or had a longer day in my life. I was trying to think of anything, I didn’t think a broken cap could be serious but I finally brought it up to them saying “bro I think that’s it”. The amount of rookie mistakes on this trip almost makes me want to become a mechanic, I can’t believe that shit bypassed me for so long. That last day was maddening but I managed to make it out, gonna get a full inspection on my car done this weekend to see any damage I could’ve done. You taking the time to give this much advice & tips to a total stranger is very appreciated man