overheating

i've got a 97 integra gs auto. it's overheated twice since i bought it. would buying a new thermostat be recommended?? also it gets hot when i get stuck in traffic. any ideas?? i'd appreciate any help.

yep. really sound like the thermostat.

does the car's fan work, or can you hear it come on in that traffic? that's another thing to check.

i have had fans go out all the time and a thermostat is always something good to replace...as long as its not leaking, i would check the fans and the thermostat

we need just a little more info. like are the fans coming on, or are they coming on when you turn the a/c on? is the coolant level filled? can you tell if the water seems to be moving through the radiator with the cap off when the engine is warm? that last one is to check to see if the water pump is working.
possible problems: 1. thermostat 2. water pump 3. not enough coolant
4. fan relay or 5. possible leak in radiator or hose(s)