Hello all. I have a 2013 (63 plate) Focus 1.6 tdci and am experiencing an odd problem.

The car has only done just over 27,000 miles. The problem is that when I accelerate in 5th or 6th gear, the acceleration seems to be delivered in bits i.e. it gives me a bit of acceleration then holds it back before giving me acceleration again. It doesn't do it every time but most times.

I should mention that there are no warning messages or lights on the dash indicating a fault.

Any thoughts?

When was the last time the fuel filter was changed?  Modern diesels don't like dirty filters, the 1.6 TDCi likes a new one every year ideally.  (Despite what Ford's service rather optimistic service interval says!).

I wouldn't usually expect a partially clogged fuel filter to cause lumpy power delivery in specific gears but stranger things have happened.  Although in higher gears the engine is working a bit harder to accelerate the car because the gearing is longer which might be the trigger for the issue.

Could be the start of clutch slip, you've got a long period of torque in high gears, compared to low gears where it's only a few seconds before either changing up or letting off.  See if the revs increase a bit while the speed holds back next time.

 

Low mileage to slip the clutch, My 2013 1.6tdci has been Spider chipped since 4000 miles and now has 35000, despite an extra 100 torque its still fine

I'd start by running a bottle of Archoil 6400-D through it, a) you'll be amazed at how well it works and b) reckon its likely to fix the issue

Also yes, change the fuel filter if you haven't done so

Thanks guys! As far as I know, the fuel filter hasn't been replaced. It's had 3 services so far and will be going in for a service/MOT tomorrow. I don't know if any of the previous services were a major or not. If any of them were, I would expect the fuel filter to be replaced.

Up until recently I had been using Tesco standard diesel, but have switched to BP. Would the quality of the Tesco fuel have anything to do with it? Should I maybe try a tank or 2 with RedEx?

I'll ask Ford tomorrow when I go in. I'll keep you posted!