Technical Loosing power, High fuel consumption and Engine management Light

[Stuiemac]

I was driving my car down the A1 when I lost all power and felt like there was something pushing against the car I then re-gained power and it went back to normal, ever since it has done this on and off.

After doing a bit of research I have came to some conclusions that is could be Spark-plugs, Temperature Sensor, or Lambda sensor.

Anyone had this problem before and know the answer.

Thanks

 

[Moosey]

Details of your car? Year, model, engine, etc.

 

[Stuiemac]

Details of your car? Year, model, engine, etc.

2000, 1.2 8v, Punto Mk2, just had new inlet and head gasket replaced.

 

[ST60SX]

2000, 1.2 8v, Punto Mk2, just had new inlet and head gasket replaced.

Who fitted the head gasket? Sounds like you might be loosing compression in one or more cylinders, or any number of things relating to not putting things back together correctly.

 

[Scoobysnacks]

Basics first!

Check that your oil and water are ok and that there is none of one where the other should be. Just a quick check to make sure the hg isn't leaking again!

Next go round the engine bay and check that everything is plugged in properly. Pull each connecter apart and put it back together. Then check that your plugs are all in and properly tightened. Then check that all your plug leads are properly snapped on at both ends. Hopefully one of those will sort it out! It's so easy to miss a connector when you put an engine back together after major surgery like a hg change! Check that all the earths are secure and use a multimeter to make sure they've got a good electrical connection.

Replace your plugs and leads (or borrow someone elses that are known good if possible, that way if it's not the problem you haven't wasted money).

If that doesn't sort it then have a look at the coil packs. They have a habit of failing so that they only cause problems when under heavy demand, for example when accelerating. This is often the cause of the problem you've described!

If none of these help, then you need to start looking at sensors. The lambda is most likely, though unusual. If you have a mate with access to proper diagnostic kit then that should tell you whether the sensors are performing correctly. If not you can buy a lead and get freeware software that allows you to plug any old computer in to your car and read the parameters yourself. The software is available HERE and the leads are about £10 off eBay, look for a "k-line (VagCom) USB" or "ELM 327 v1.3 (or later) USB" interface cable.

I know there's a lot of info there, but like I say, do the basics first. Most of the time that'll cure it without expensive diagnostics and/or parts replacement. A set of plugs leads will cost you maybe £20, a replacement coil pack should be round the £20 from eBay, a bit more from your local parts merchant. A lambda sensor, or a temp sensor, by comparison will set you back around £50 to £60, and that's assuming you are confident with doing the work yourself!

 

[Stuiemac]

Basics first!

Check that your oil and water are ok and that there is none of one where the other should be. Just a quick check to make sure the hg isn't leaking again!

Next go round the engine bay and check that everything is plugged in properly. Pull each connecter apart and put it back together. Then check that your plugs are all in and properly tightened. Then check that all your plug leads are properly snapped on at both ends. Hopefully one of those will sort it out! It's so easy to miss a connector when you put an engine back together after major surgery like a hg change! Check that all the earths are secure and use a multimeter to make sure they've got a good electrical connection.

Replace your plugs and leads (or borrow someone elses that are known good if possible, that way if it's not the problem you haven't wasted money).

If that doesn't sort it then have a look at the coil packs. They have a habit of failing so that they only cause problems when under heavy demand, for example when accelerating. This is often the cause of the problem you've described!

If none of these help, then you need to start looking at sensors. The lambda is most likely, though unusual. If you have a mate with access to proper diagnostic kit then that should tell you whether the sensors are performing correctly. If not you can buy a lead and get freeware software that allows you to plug any old computer in to your car and read the parameters yourself. The software is available HERE and the leads are about £10 off eBay, look for a "k-line (VagCom) USB" or "ELM 327 v1.3 (or later) USB" interface cable.

I know there's a lot of info there, but like I say, do the basics first. Most of the time that'll cure it without expensive diagnostics and/or parts replacement. A set of plugs leads will cost you maybe £20, a replacement coil pack should be round the £20 from eBay, a bit more from your local parts merchant. A lambda sensor, or a temp sensor, by comparison will set you back around £50 to £60, and that's assuming you are confident with doing the work yourself!

Where do you live anyone in the newcastle area willing to have a look at it thanks.

 

[Scoobysnacks]

Unfortunately I'm in the London area, but I'm sure there's plenty of people round you will be able to lend a hand.

I know all that sounds really complicated, but if you take it one step at a time you should be able to sort it yourself!