Thinking About Buying 1997 Neon - Help!

Hi,
I was just wondering if anyone could help me. My daughter is looking to buy her very first car, a 1997 Dodge Neon from my neighbor, he says it overheats but NEVER BOIL OVER - I guess he means temp. gauge, it shows hot, but then it shows it cooling down. Does anybody have a clue to what this may be? And if you had a blown head gasket, how would you know? Going to look and check out the car tomorrow so quick answers would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

I guess he means temp. gauge, it shows hot, but then it shows it cooling down. Does anybody have a clue to what this may be?Could be a few things. DO the fans kick on? Thermostat may need to be replaced, radiator may need to be flushed. Is the check engine light on?

And if you had a blown head gasket, how would you know?Coolant in the oil or oil in the coolant. Take the radiator cap off (while it's cool) and look at the color.