I'm sure a few electrons could fit through that crack. They're not that big. A crack or carbon trace on a spark plug boot will cause similar problems. Glad you got it figured out!

 

yesterday i slowed down real fast because a woman was swerving into my lane and then my car just died and will fire but it won't turn over and start. i have been told it could be the crank sensor or the timing belt. also, my check engine light is on and when i plugged it up at auto zone, the woman told me it was a transmission issue. could the 2 be related. the elantra has excellent mileage considering it's a 1999, it only has 122K miles on it. any suggestions to me.?