Mend > Cars

how can I fix my vauxhall zafira 1.6 (1999)?

Does anyone know why my car, which has 100 K on the clock and which, up until this morning was behaving normally, developed a judder about a mile in to my journey each time I changed gear (usually between 2nd, 3rd and 4th). A short while later, the engine cut out with all warning lights coming on. Luckily I managed to stop somewhere safe, and after two or three unsuccessful attempts at starting the car (engine cut out within seconds of starting up) I called the AA who were able to start the car and keep the engine running but were unable to make a diagnosis. Managed to get car back home but all the time with an unnerving judder each time I changed gear. About to take it to the garage but wondered if anyone has had previous experience of what I have described.

Paul
December 2010

Vauxhall Vauxhall Zafira 1.6 Vehicles, Cars Vauxhall Zafira 1999

Thanks for the suggestions. My local garage cleaned and replaced the EGR valve but problem persisted. They picked up on a noise coming from the timing belt housing which they warned would be expensive to go poking around in; this together with damaged wiper blades and general wear and tear to the car which has had fairly heavy use prompted them to advise me to start looking around for a new car, which I now have --another Zafira (!) but one that's only 3 years old and with only 22K on the clock. What a difference!

Paul
December 2010

EGR valve at a guess. I'd replace it, or clean it thoroughly.

When was it last serviced, when were the spark plugs last renewed?

ChicksFan
December 2010

wel i got the same problem sounds like gearbox like myn check gear oil for leaks or low fluid or may need a change....did you notice any whine frm gearbox

ROB
December 2010