Any idea what's causing my Mondeo's temperature gauge to read in the red?

Recently, when driving on a motorway after 20 minutes or so, the temp gauge of my 2005 Mondeo 2.0-litre petrol automatic moved into the red. However, if I coasted downhill, the gauge came off red. The car seems to run ok and not boil over, although there is evidence of wet under the overflow tank. The AA pressure tested the system and found no leak. I am now scared to drive any distance in case the car breaks down. Will a garage know what to check without just replacing all the coolant parts? Any suggestions where to start looking?

Asked on 14 December 2013 by RK, Kings Langley

Answered by Honest John
It's most likely that the radiator fan is not working because the temp sensor/sender switch screwed into the water jacket of the cylinder block has failed. Or it could be that the fan motor has failed (that's easily tested). Or the water pump has failed, or (less likely) the engine thermostat has seized up.
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