Odd problem while running. Garage stumped. Ideas?

[Distracted_writer]

My car (2003 1.4 16v petrol estate) has developed an intermittent problem when being driven. The power stutters now and then. I'm not sure how better to describe it, sorry. It's worse when it's full, and at low speeds, but is okay at higher speeds. It also doesn't happen every time it's used, maybe one time out of three. Had a service a month ago. Any ideas? Thanks!

[cheshire_cat]

ignition coil/leads/plugs or is it coils?  code read would be good

[Distracted_writer]

I can get a code read. Do you know where the port is?

Starts perfectly every time though.

[Toxicvrs]

I can get a code read. Do you know where the port is?

Starts perfectly every time though.

Pull chubby hole by right knee down then down again

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[sepulchrave]

Coil pack breaking down when hot.

[TMB]

Pull chubby hole by right knee down then down again

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Yeah

 

[TMB]

^ What is a "chubby" hole Jack?  The mind boggles

[wiredsoftware]

Whatever you do, don't google it

[fabdavrav]

Fuel filter needs replacing, sounds like when at load, so also spark plugs, leads,

 

Also is it an AUB or BBZ engine?...............as on that date it could be either..........AUB has leads, BBZ has a coil ignitor on top of each plug like the old 1.8T MK4 Golf...........

[TMB]

Whatever you do, don't google it

 

[Toxicvrs]

^ What is a "chubby" hole Jack? The mind boggles

Auto ****ing correct

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[bigjohn]

My car (2003 1.4 16v petrol estate) has developed an intermittent problem when being driven. The power stutters now and then. I'm not sure how better to describe it, sorry. It's worse when it's full, and at low speeds, but is okay at higher speeds. It also doesn't happen every time it's used, maybe one time out of three. Had a service a month ago. Any ideas? Thanks!

 

Almost certainly wasted spark coil pack - common fault on this engine. Usually worse at low speeds and shows up more in cold/damp weather

 

At tickover in neutral with the engine running - floor the throttle - if it briefly sounds like a 2cv (2  cylinder sound) then one of the two coils is failing - The pack has two coils each covering 2 cylinders - hence "wasted spark"

 

 

It's difficult to diagnose as doesn't always throw a code  - cheap to buy / replace so just change it!

 

If you don't eventually it takes the cat out with un-burnt fuel from the affected cylinders 

Edited 30 November, 2015 by bigjohn

[Distracted_writer]

Thanks everyone! 

 

It's been to the garage a couple of times but never does it with them. Not sure which engine it is, but I can check in the morning. 

 

How much am I looking at if it's the spark coil pack? (It had new plugs when it was serviced.)

[cheshire_cat]

if it's a wasted spark coil   get an ohm reading on each lead   a VW single lead is approx the same price as a descent SET (4)