I have a 1999 Elantra that for the last few weeks is giving me
problems. It starts well but after running for a while, the temperature
gauge goes crazy (goes all the way up and then all the way up within a
second or two) and then it stops and it does not show the temperature.
The fans are running well and the coolant levels are just fine. I also
notice a strong smell of anti-freeze when running or after turning the
card off but I have not been able to find any leaks on the hoses under
the hood nor inside of the car. The problems does not happen all the
time and the outside temperature has been in the 50-70, but not yet
higher. AC unit and cabin fans seem to run ok also. Any suggestions as
to what it could be?

 

Check your fuses first. I seem to recall a crazy gauge issue with a blown
room lamp fuse or something similar to that.