Volvo: 2000 S70 temp. gage/cooling fan, temperature guage, 2000 volvo s70

Question
I have a 2000 Volvo S70 with 125K miles.  Just noticed three things that may be related.  First, at night, I noticed the dash illumination began to flicker...just enough to notice.  Second, after being rock solid since I purchased the vehicle, I have noticed that the temperature guage will drop slightly after reaching normal temp. then move back to normal.  It continues to cycle down then back to normal.  Finally, I noticed that the cooling fan, which would normally continue to operate for a couple of minutes once the vehicle is turned off, does not continue to run any more.  I have checked to make sure the fan in not restricted in any way, checked the fuses and disconnected/reconnected the cooling fan relay.  All appear okay.  

Answer
Hello Bob! There may be a fault with the ect sensor and/or the thermostat. It is best to replace both. Usually, the ect sensor will set off the check engine light. The flickering lights may be a sign of a bad alternator or battery. Have the charging system checked out.


Jimmy