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The stock gauge isn't that accurate, so it's hard to give you a definite answer on this.
Seriously, an aftermarket water temp gauge can be had for cheap (i.e. VDO / Autometer), and it gives you a better idea of how hot everything is.
I'm am going to buck the trend and say it's not so much how hot it gets, but for how long @ what temps it was sitting at.
A temporary spike to "H" does not automatically mean your engine is dead.
I've done it, so I'm proof of this.
The LOW COOLANT warning light + buzzer is a very good indicator of a possible cooling system failure.
Your situation could be as simple as a coolant leak somewhere.
Cross your fingers it's not leaking internally on the engine.
Looks for signs of white crusty stuff in and around the cooling system connections.
This include:
Radiator hoses
Heater hoses (pay particular atttention to the ones going in and out of the firewall, and snaking under the oil filter)
Thermostat cover
Water pump
Water pump housing
Radiator
Radiator cap(s)
TB -> rear iron @)$%&$%)& hose
If your nose is sensitive enough, you can smell the coolant in the engine bay.
-Ted
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