Updating Graphic Drivers

My card is a MS-StarForce 6800GT (Nvidia Geforce) - I have tried to update the driver to the more recent through the Nvidia site, it notes on there to remove the old driver through add/remove programmes etc - so I did this and installed the newer driver and come to play a game and its all graphically messed up. I have had no problems with games etc before I tried the update (have done a system restore now so its all back to normal)
So what is going wrong and is updating these drivers that important if I had no problems before.
I aint all that knowledgeable when it comes to the tech stuff so any help would be appreciated.

Oh and 1 more question - Only today my pc has started to restart itself when playing Oblivion at random times (was running ok before so I had no reason to do any tweaking and stuff)

Davey

 

Many people will tell you, that unless you have a problem, don't update your drivers. You ever heard "if it's not broken, don't fix it." Usually when a PC shuts off/restarts it's a cooling problem. Do you know how to check your CPU and graphics card temps?

 

Graphics card temp yes
CPU temp no (How do i check this)
so if its overheating with this game whats the solution?

 

I have installed Super Utilities and can now see the CPU temp.
(if this helps)

 

what are your temps?

 

Graphic Card - GPU Core Temp - 58c / Ambient Remp - 43c
CPU Temp - 35.00
System Temp - 45.00 (both upper temp threshold 70)

not sure how much info is needed

 

Graphics card is at 58? Start up oblivion, play for a few minutes, then check the temp.

 

Played for 10 mins - the temp was 61c

PC did not restart either