CPU fan might be broken

Either the fan is broken or the temp control circuit is broken. She has to stop using it, take out the HDD and backup all the data first. Laptap CPU fan can be difficult to replace -- it could be difficult to disassmble the whole machine.

$800 is a lot of money for a laptop. Please check if the price includes extended warranty. It's better to send it back to the manufacturer to get it repaired, if it's made by reputable companies like HP, Gateway etc. If it's made by Sony, you may want to re-consider. My friend had a Sony laptop. After he sent it back for repair, Sony claimed that it was caused by user's abuse.