Volvo: 1992 Volvo 240, 4 cyl, coolant levels, 1992 volvo 240

Question
ey:

Just bought this car for my 16 yr old.  Has 186,000 miles.  The car keeps heading toward the red hot zone on the temp gage when she uses the ac on the highest blower.  Any ideas?

Answer
Generally that means that the thermostat is malfunctioning.  I would definetly check that first.  Second, check the water pump.  Sometimes they can partially fail, limiting the car's ability to cool itself.  Don't forget to also check for the obvious, like leaks in the radiator, or low coolant levels in general.  Good luck!