Hello,

I'm a long time reader but this is my first post as I've come across a problem with my recently purchased Ford Focus!

I have a 2001 model (1.8 Zetec) which has recently played up and now has almost no power when driving. Pulling away from a standstill goes at a crawl and the car takes a long time to get up to speed. If you put your foot down the acceleration dies completely!

I have taken it to a local garage (Halfords Autocentres) who have tested the catalytic converter to see if it is blocked, replaced the maf sensor and replaced the fuel filter. None of these have solved the issue.

From looking online I can see that there was a recall on the 2001 Focus for the Fuel Pump, does it sound like that could be the problem or do you know of anything else that might cause this kind of performance issue?

Thanks in advance!

It does sound like a fuel issue. In neutral can you rev the engine like a car without an issue will?

well first off dont use halfords im surprised they know where the cat is it needs a ford dealer people moan its 80quid but uve spent at least that on parts you dont need they will hook it up and can measure everything it could be pump wiring injectors ecu fuel filter etc

[quote name='johnS' timestamp='1341334974' post='190730']
It does sound like a fuel issue. In neutral can you rev the engine like a car without an issue will?
[/quote]
Yes it's fine when in neutral, it's only when under load that there is any issue.

[quote name='artscot79' timestamp='1341335703' post='190733']
well first off dont use halfords im surprised they know where the cat is it needs a ford dealer people moan its 80quid but uve spent at least that on parts you dont need they will hook it up and can measure everything it could be pump wiring injectors ecu fuel filter etc
[/quote]
I've learnt that now
Sounds like it should be best just to take it into Ford and get them to check it over and sort it for me then.

Thankyou for your comments!

[quote name='Kev24uk' timestamp='1341350371' post='190841']
Yes it's fine when in neutral, it's only when under load that there is any issue.


I've learnt that now
Sounds like it should be best just to take it into Ford and get them to check it over and sort it for me then.

Thankyou for your comments!
[/quote]

Let us know what it was in the end

Try reducing the spark plug gaps to 1.0mm, it sounds more like a weak spark.
If reducing the gaps improves the issue look at getting a new coil pack.

Took it into Ford today and after diagnosis they have informed me that my engine timing is way out and that's what's causing it!

Getting a cambelt replacement on Monday, let's hope that solves it!

Your lucky it didnt go twang.