vectra 1.8 GLS , cuts out periodically when you dip the clutch, even when changing gear.?

Question

This problem doesn't always happen. Sometimes the engine is so quiet you cant hear it. sometimes it is racing. When it is in a "mood" it will cut out regardless. ie, when stationary and the gears are in neutral. changing down gears from third to second, changing from first to reverse, making it very hard to park. It does it whether its first thing in the morning or even at the end of a long drive. Other times it is very smooth and quiet and to be honest a lovely drive. We cannot put a proper routine to it or work it out. I am suspicious of maybe a fuel blockage, or muck in the carb. Any suggestion will be helpful. We took it to a vauxhall dealer and he recommended changing the rocker cover and breather pipes. So we did do, and we changed the spark plugs too, but it still does it. Please help!

Answer 1

Hey there,

You are not alone.

Have a search on teh web for "Vectra stall throttle" and you will be amazed. Also have a look at the previous questions below.

Good luck !

This is probably the "EGR" valve .

Doe the car Idle erratically most on a warm start but is fine on a cold start ?

http://www.parkers.co.uk/advice/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=14421

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Vauxhall_vectra_16valve_engine_surging_at_idle_up_down_continual

http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?v=i&t=6779

http://www.cavweb-forums.co.uk/showthread.php?t=24391

Answer 2

Hi,

I had a Vectra. On injection cars the Idle speed (Throttle) control valve (Sometimes called cold-start valve) can gets gummed up if it has bad mixture or bad breathers or just too many insects get in it, lol. That causes exactly what you are talking about - when the clutch is depressed, the engine has to use a bit of power to help it and can cut out if the idle valve is screwed. Can cut out anytime it feels like it tho.

You can clean the idle valve (If you can find it) by spraying aerosol can of carb cleaner into it. Might need to do it once in a while to keep it clean.

Are you SURE it has a carb? Nearly all are injection. Still, maybe a loose/leaking vacuum pipe if it IS a carb - explains why dealer said breathers.


In any case, a minor engine service (Like plugs, leads) helps. Am surprised a Vauxhall dealer was so rubbish - take it to an independant. Try to find a respectable looking independant who actually RACES cars - they know what they are doing engine wise. Go to your local Autograss track and ask them - you'll have a GREAT day out and some real advice :)

(Says me, lol)

My only other advice is don't own a Vectra. Older Vaux's are great but Vectra is a bit sad, sorry :(

Answer 3

Hi

There was a breather modification recommended for earlier Vectras designed to combat the very problem you are experiencing.

The modification consists of a filter being fitted between the rocker cover and the breather in the form of a small black box or similar, which stops oil from contaminating the idle control valve/throttle body.

The modification can also mean fitting a modified idle control valve and adjusting the base idle setting slightly.

Ask your Vauxhall dealer to check for this mod and if required, carry it out.

Cheers

Geordie

Answer 4

An unusual fault but surely this car has fuel injection.The remedy you have had recomended is absurb.Because the engine cuts out when depressing the clutch pedal suggest that as the pedal goes down it has to be touching a wire or a cut out valve.Your comment on when the engine is racing suggests that what i have said is a possibility and wouldnt think such a big deal.

Answer 5

have a look under the carb it sits on a rubber housing this could have a split in it and this could cut the engine hope this helps good luck

Answer 6

Your injection chanber needs cleaning.