Vauxhall Corsa acceleration

Car: Vauxhall Corsa
Variant: Activ
Model Year: 2003
Categories: Running Rough, Starting & Power Loss
Hi, very new here, I'd be glad of any hints/tips if possible!

Just set off to work this morning, and my corsa gave a spluttery judder when it started up (sounded like it was going to cut out but didnt), and on the journey I noticed a new noise, a bit on the gruff side (dont know how else to describe it sorry!), and it felt like acceleration isnt working properly.
I've had the typical gear linkage problem which Corsas seem to have (where the ball and socket joint wears away so I lose 1st and 2nd gear) but I've done a temp fix with cable ties, and I dont think this is related. I might be wrong, I know very very little.

When I go to accelerate, its as though the car is struggling to get momentum, and the gas pedal doesnt feel as responsive. I only assume the noise that's appeared is related as it has happened at the same time.

Any ideas?! :)

Thanks in advance
Posted: Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)
Sounds like you have a misfire , causing power loss . Could be coil / coilpack / plugs etc . Need to get it checked out to find cause . Gear linkage is very common fault on that car and usually costs about £90 supplied and fitted from independant garage .
Posted Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)
Thank you for the quick reply. I've noticed the usual tapping noises it makes when it's just ticking over, seems to be more prominent too. Is this also related to the things you listed?

Is this something which could make me break down any minute?!

Thanks again
Posted Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)
Corsa's suffer from timing chains , hydraulic tappets and camshaft failures . This is very common and can be expensive if left . Check oil level just in case low .
Posted Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)
Check this re . timing chain recall.

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.php?t=452784
Posted Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)
Fab, thank you for all your help. Got the father popping over to have a nosey at it, I'll pass on all your suggestions, thank you again.
Posted Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)
Glad to help / advise , hope it's nothing major .If stiil having problems , get back to board and someone will help further if needed .
Posted Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)
Well turns out the timing belt's gone. Sadly I cant get it covered under the recall since it was so long ago but at least I know what the deal is and getting it sorted now! Certainly wont be going to Vauxhall for it!

I'll be recommending this forum to my friends for sure, really good of you to be so helpful.
Cheers :)
Posted Feb 21, 2011 (13 years ago)

This problem is archived

If you're having a similar problem please click below to re-post this problem, you can then customise it to suit your situation.

Join the community
Got a question? Can you answer other questions here? If so please...
More problems with the 2003 model year Vauxhall Corsa

We have 79 problems and solutions in our database for this model year of the car.

View all Vauxhall Corsa Problems