2005/6 1.8tdci: Wierd Intermittent Hesitancy

[dmhcaspian]

This is a weird one: My 2005 1.8 tdci Focus (an early Mk 2?)

Now and then, a bit more frequently recently, on low throttle openings, I can feel a jerking: - Much like fuel starvation in a petrol car.

Sometimes on pulling away from a stand still, (on low throttle opening) the power drops of completely as I bring up the clutch and the car stalls.

It's fine on wider openings, and on the motorway.

Here's where it starts to get weird:

On some journeys, after about three of these 'hesitation attacks', the big read cogwheel warning light comes on . - The imminent total disaster light.

And from then on for the rest of that journey the car drive superbly. - Lively, responsive, smooth.

When I turn the engine off, and back on again later, the light is out, and the cycle repeats itself.

So of course, if I take to a garage, all appears to be well.

Does anyone have a suggestion as to what might be wrong please:

By my logic, some computerised system in the car is trying to do something, having a few problems, and then giving up. That function gets turned off, and the warning light turns ON.

But what can it be that results in the car running MUCH better after that?

And suggestion most welcome.

Thanks

[TechDrive]

I have a 2005 Focus 2.0l TDCi. When I first got the car, it developed a problem whereby the vehicle would intermittantly cut out and give no response from the throttle. The remedy was a new EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve and module update/re-programme. I'm not a mechanic so this is only a suggestion, but your problem does sound similar.

[IINexusII]

no need to get a new EGR valve, just get a blanking plate like this one: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/121106889703?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

most of us here have done it, all get good results, no more hesitation at low revs

also change the fuel filter, if it hasnt been done recently

[dmhcaspian]

Just thought you'd like to know that I think I've fixed it. To cut a long story short, I read vie a US blog that it might be the DPFE (not DPF). Found that we call this a MAP sensor. Had a look at the map sensor, and the semi rigid pipe to the EGR snapped.

Bough a new MAP sensor assembly, fitted in about 15 minutes, and Hey Presto.

I was surprised that none of the Ford specialists /main dealers/ ecu remap wizards had never heard of a problem like that before.

Anyway, all is now well. the car is smooth, perky, and back up to well over 50 mpg