If the machine is clearly overheating, clean the heatsink assembly.  If it's not, it's likely a system board problem.

Thanks ejn63 – given that there heatsink assembly is clean what would you suggest to fix the issue with the system board?

http://www.parts-people.com/index.php?action=item&id=4737

You may think that, but bear in mind that the company that made the system for Dell is the second largest notebook maker in the world - they manufacture for Toshiba, Acer/Gateway/eMachines, Sony, Apple, and everyone else -- so, you may think your next system will be different but might turn out to be a Buick to replace your problematic Chevy -- different nameplate, same manufacturer.

hmmmm, at that price I'm thinking "no more Dells" but thanks anyway for the help

I'm not arguing otherwise. I'm simply stating that you're likely to find your next system no better - so with it, get a 3-year warranty.

There's little difference between "brands" when it comes to hardware - though some are slightly more or less reliable -- about 25-30% of all notebooks will have a major failure within three years, regardless of brand.

I agree with you although it's a viscious circle. Having worked for many years in electrical retailing I'm well aware that the profit margins on these warranties are often 4 times those of the actual product being covered. They've got you both ways up!