Chevrolet Repair: 2000 cavalier coolant problem, degree thermostat, engine coolant

Question
I just bought this car. And the engine coolant light came on. The temp. gage went way up past 195(max is at 260) but not quite to the max. Do I have an issue?  

Answer
Normal coolant temperature on the newer vehicles runs about 220 degrees before the cooling fan comes on as it most likely has the NORMAL 195 degree thermostat in it and it is NOT to be changed to a LOWER degree thermostat or you will upset the emissions of the vehicle.. I really do not see a problem.

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