Temperature gauge floats it goes from normal to hot

Hello,

An engine can over heat due to a stuck thermostat or a water pump that is not circulation coolant thru the engine.
The engine can also over heat due to a faulty cooling fan. If the cooling fan does not work properly or does not work at all the engine will over heat.

Now does the engine actually over heats or it just the temperature gauge that is showing the high temperature? Many times a faulty coolant temperature sensor can give false readings. It can also trigger the cooling fan not to operate.

You might find these articles helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-an-overheating-engine

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/water-pump-replacement

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.