Hi guys and girls. I *think* I'm having an issue with my 1998 Galaxy Aspen 2.0 petrol. I only bought it last week and it's my first Ford ever. I say I think I'm having an issue because, well, let me explain.

I have yet to see the radiator fan running. I'm worried about this because I had a problem like this last year in another car and I ended up with a head gasket failure and with four kids I really can't afford this happen again. The engine temp gauge on binnacle never goes over half way when I'm driving but does creep up if I'm standing in traffic. However I tested it in my drive yesterday and the needle went right up to just below red line before I chickened out and switched off the engine. The fan never kicked in. Is there any way to check the fan without removing it from the engine bay? I'm hoping it's just the sensor on the thermostat housing (I think this is the one that controls the fan?) as this would be a cheap and easy fix. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Dave