Hello, this is my first post here.

I drive a 2003 1.6 Focus fitted with the Zetec SE engine and 55K on the clock.
Recently it's developed an intermittent problem where the engine seems to almost cut out.
It can happen when pulling off from a standstill (usually at a junction) Partway across the junction it will almost stall then pickup straight away.
Also when slowing down for a junction in 2nd gear it can do the same thing when putting my foot back on the accelerator.
A similar thing can happen in higher gears when its about time to change down, but it seems to be misfiring at this stage.
Some days this problem never shows, other days its just slightly noticeable and sometimes its pretty bad.
I've not noticed the red light showing but the problem only lasts momentarily.
I've changed the plugs and HT leads which has given no improvement.
Has anybody else had this problem? What course of action should I take?

Thanks, Rob.


I replaced the coil pack which fixed this problem. I can now pull off smoothly and juddering has gone. Thanks to everybody that took the time to reply, cheers, Rob.

 

I'd say your iccv is sticking, but first check the maf sensor by unplugin it. Won't be a coil pack as they stop the spark to 2 cylinders.

 

Also rob, the iccv is short term for idle control valve.

 

as above

 

any speedo problems,,,

as the speed sensor has been know to affect idle and peformance

 

I'd guess either coilpack or idle control valve.

My mrs's fiesta's coilpack went, and it wouldn't run at all, so they do fail to varying degrees.

 

I would say the throttle position sensor. Just done one on a 1.4 fiesta with simular problems.

 

Thanks for your replies.

The speedo seems to be reading OK.

I will check the ICV and the TPS. Can the TPS be checked using a multimeter on Ohms range or does it need testing with the engine running and monitoring voltage.

Rob.

 

Engine doesn't need to be running, just ignition on, but isn't this anyway.
Coilpack most DEFINITELY can fail on just one plug output, I know had me scratching my head as well, but I've seen 3 like this inc one of my own.
Is the fuel filter change up to date, have you checked the CO(exhaust gas) to see if running lean, look for any air leaks, also it would be a good idea to clean the MAF, with carb cleaner, do NOT under any circumstances poke at the sensor wires, after cleaning reset the ecu by pulling the fuse marked KAM for 1 minute.
There is also another(cheap) part that can cause this commonly, not sure this is on your year though, looking at the front of the engine behind the manifold there is a pipe that leads from the PCV valve to the rear of the head, around the rear corner of the head it has a "T" piece these are famous for disintergrating, if you just temporarily pull off the pipe leading to the inlet from this "T" piece and block it you will see if it has been the problem, as I say not 100% sure this is on yours.
tabetha

 

Thanks Tabetha. Not done anything with it yet, too late after work and its been raining most of today!
I've been out in it tonight and it was "doing it's tricks" and running a bit rough. I had a look under the bonnet in the dark in case there was a firework display anywhere around the coilpack, nothing. I suppose if its breaking down internally there won't be any sparks to see.
Anyway, when (if ) I find the problem I will report back.

Rob.

 

I have the same problem with my car, although mine also stutters. I have a 2001 focus 1.6 Zetec se Automatic. If i drive mine steady to 50 mph my revs will sit at just over 2k if i put my foot down only half way it will splutter and jump like mad with very little speed increase. also with an auto i can kick down a gear if i do this on the odd occasion it will kick down the revs will increase to say 4 - 5k but no increase in speed what so ever. I have just had in the last couple of weeks, a full new exhaust, oil filter change, new plugs plus ht leads, air filter, fuel filter drained and flushed coolant and refilled as the car also overheats if i am doing say 80 down the motorway take my foot of the gas it will over heat then or after a few minutes but goes back down to normal temp pretty quickly aslo had the Lamba sensor think thats right changed in the exhaust. none of this solved any of the problems but have no found a split in what i think is the PCV pipe would this be a cause of my troubles? hopefully ill get one tomorrow?

 

PCV Pipe cost to much lol but it made a little diffrence but still doesnt want to accelerate properly untill 3.5k revs are there. Very annoying. Gonna take it to local garage to have diagnostics done will let u know what they say