newbie needs help...please help

[c200-sport]

Hi Guys
My Name Is Harry From London,i Have Just Bought My First Merc.
Nothing Flash.
Its A C200 Sport 1997

I Need Your Guys Expert Help

My Fan Kicks In Straight From The Start And Does Not Turn Off Untill I Turn The Car Off....is This Normal?

My Friend Told Me That It Could Be The Head Gasket On Its Way Out Or The Radiator?

My Temp Goes Up Just Over Half Way And Stays There...is That Normal?
Or Do You Think The Fan May Have Been By Passed To Stay On So I Would Not Notice The Temp?

Please Let Me Know So I Can Get It Sorted Before I Do The Car Some Real Damage.

Someone Told Me That Its Normal For The Fan To Stay On But I Thought I Would Ask The Experts Here

Look Forward To Hearing From You Guys Soon.

Thanking You In Advance.

Harry A.k.a C200-sport

 

[kit820]

Sometimes it is normal for a fan to stay on even after the vehicle is switched off. Given it is now the hot season coupled by the heavy traffic in town.

The engine temperature should get up to about 80 degree C and stay there. If it gets higher than that, then we may have a problem.