Welcome Aboard!
Do you have access to a code scanner, even a rudimentary unit? If not, you can drive the vehicle to any of several automotive parts chain stores and have someone read the stored error codes for you, usually free of charge. They perform this service with the hope of selling you related parts. In this case, simply get the codes read (make notes about the stored codes) and thank them.
I suspect the issue may be related to the coolant temperature sensor and/or its wiring. If the problem were simply the instrument panel the engine would not likely react differently to the intermittent signal.
If the PCM (on board computer) receives an erroneous or intermittent signal from the engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT) the PCM will alter how the vehicle runs based upon standard data tables rather than actual measurements. This causes the fuel mixture, ignition timing, transmission shift points and pressure modulation, and various other systems to divert to a failsafe (limp home) mode of operation.
Get and post any error codes, and please identify which engine is installed in the vehicle. We'll likely be able to point you in a direction to locate the problem(s).