Vauxhall Astra help

[gamma]

I have a 93 model Vauxhall Astra with 94000 miles on the clock. The problem is in low gears ie 1, 2 sometimes 3 the car jerks abit like its not getting petrol or something. It's never died on me but I usually put the clutch in when I'm traveling slowly or in traffic.

Any ideas?

[tomstickland]

Could be many things. The engine jerking cannot be caused by gear selection. Do you mean it jerks at low engine rpm? Or at low speeds, like in busy traffic. Does the engine miss or is it tranmission jerk?
If it's the engine then I'd look at basic service items. For example, the distributor rotor arm (if it has one), the spark plug condition, the HT leads etc.

[gamma]

Thanks, yes it jerks at low engine rpm, and basically low speeds also. Don't think the engine misses tho. Yes I thought it might need a service - as it's not had one since I've had it. Sparkplugs, airfilter maybe?

[Gorgeous George]

I used to owna 93 Astra saloon - great cars.

You could check the fuel filter but more likely electrical. If you open the bonnet when it is dark and run the engine, you can sometimes see sparks from a dodgy HT lead or jumping across the terminals of the coil. Damp weather exacerbates the problem.

:)

GG

[tomstickland]

Jerky running or misfire is usually an ignition related problem. Plugs, leads, distributor. Sometimes ECU faults or sensor connections can cause it. Basic servicing is required to keep a car running smoothly.

[vansboy]

As Tomstrickland says, also a common fault is the EGR valve. Your local garage might be able to test/confirm this, rather than main dealer diagnostic charges!! Does the engine managment light ever come on - this would hint at this being the problem.

Vauxhall now offer an unlomited mileage warranty, on this part, now IIRC.

VB

[gamma]

Nope I've never seen any warning lights come on - and there has never been a break down either.

Also lately I've been hearing what sounds like water running through the engine? Or water flowing..
This is weird cause I've not heard this before.

[justin72]

As Tomstrickland says, also a common fault is the EGR valve. Your local garage might be able to test/confirm this, rather than main dealer diagnostic charges!! Does the engine managment light ever come on - this would hint at this being the problem.

Vauxhall now offer an unlomited mileage warranty, on this part, now IIRC.

VB

My local Vauxhall Dealer charged me £10 for a diagnostic check - didn't think that was too bad?

[maka]

it may just be your air intakes this is a big cause of cars jerking and sometime cutting out

[gamma]

how do i check that?