My 1.8 TDCi is having engine issues. On accelerating moderately hard (when engine is up to normal temp.) it regularly loses power, as though it is being starved of fuel, and 'kangaroos' quite violently at times. This is accompanied by a plume of smoke. The most common occurance is when accelrating up slip roads on to DCs. When this happens I can put my foot to the floor and the car will sit there juddering, as though it's being held back. I have to come right off the accelator and reapply power to restore the fault.

I've had it in to the local dealer about two months ago, who cited 'a new fuel cap' as their fix, and refused to tell me any more as it was warranty work. I drive over a dozen different Mk.1, Mk.2 and Mk.2.5 Focus 1.8 TDCi's at work, with massively different milages and have never experienced this issue in any of them.

I booked it back in to the dealer, as it's just not safe as it is. Mine's a 56-plate Mk.2 with 30k on the clock, so still under warranty.

They've had the car four day, have their master technician on it and still haven't sorted it yet! They've replace a fuel line it seems, with no luck. I've mentioned to them EGR and intake pipes, as these have been cited by owners on other forums as producing similar problems. The service desk woman says she's sure the techs would have checked those...

Anyone had/heard of similar issues, or have any idea what the problem could be?