98 fiesta chugging- spark plugs?

Ms. Pingui

I have an old 98 Ford Fiesta. Recently it has been very slow to take off and it's chugging a bit, especially in lower gears. It has also been using more petrol than usual.
Someone suggested to me that the spark plugs could need to be changed. Does this sound right or what else might be causing the problem?

I have absolutely no clue about cars.

Thanks!

TheBody

Ms. Pingui wrote: »

I have an old 98 Ford Fiesta. Recently it has been very slow to take off and it's chugging a bit, especially in lower gears. It has also been using more petrol than usual.
Someone suggested to me that the spark plugs could need to be changed. Does this sound right or what else might be causing the problem?

I have absolutely no clue about cars.

Thanks!

When did you last get it serviced?

cletus

A full service would be a start if it hasn't been serviced in a while. The throttle body may also need a cleaning. Which engine does it have

Ms. Pingui

I bought it last September and it was fully serviced and nctd just before I paid for it.
This has only started in the last few weeks.

The engine is 1.3. I'm sure it has a name on it but honestly I'll has to look at it and come back to you on that!

Mech1

A service isnt gonna help the immediate problem. yes we all agree that regular servicing is ness, but sounds like a misfire situation, leave it into a good indy mechanic to fix immediate prob only, get him to stay in contact re price Before he fits any parts. Agree a fee for checking / diagnosing before handing over car.

When its running better, get it serviced.

cletus

The 1.3 is an endura engine, which has an egr valve as far as I remember. It would be worthwhile having this cleaned.

LifeSaabItch

Are you sure it's a 1.3 and not a 1.25 Zetec?

If it's a Zetec, More than likely a coilpack at fault.

keithsfleet

Fords of that era are renowned for TPS (throttle position sensor) faults. The TPS and the multi connector on the loom can be a right pain.
I'd unplug the multi connector and give it a clean, if the problem persists I'd replace the TPS or use a tiny bit of gold wire to increase conductivity between the loom and TPS.

Had a puma last week with the same issues and the above sorted it out

Don't use any harsh chemicals on the throttle body itself, some of them are coated to prevent carbon buildup and using chemicals will strip it away.

cletus

keithsfleet wrote: »

Don't use any harsh chemicals on the throttle body itself, some of them are coated to prevent carbon buildup and using chemicals will strip it away.

I drive a 99 Fiesta (although a 1.25), and I cleaned the throttle body even though there's a sticker on the intake saying not to. I just figured it had 13 years (at the time) worth of sh1t on it, and stripping the protective coating probably means having to clean it regularly, but it was worth it for the difference at low revs and idle

keithsfleet

cletus wrote: »

I drive a 99 Fiesta (although a 1.25), and I cleaned the throttle body even though there's a sticker on the intake saying not to. I just figured it had 13 years (at the time) worth of sh1t on it, and stripping the protective coating probably means having to clean it regularly, but it was worth it for the difference at low revs and idle

I could be wrong but the protective coating is also an inhibitor to protect and prevent...
I don't know where I heard that and I'm using the phone so won't be asking Jeeves it.

starlit

Ms. Pingui wrote: »

I have an old 98 Ford Fiesta. Recently it has been very slow to take off and it's chugging a bit, especially in lower gears. It has also been using more petrol than usual.
Someone suggested to me that the spark plugs could need to be changed. Does this sound right or what else might be causing the problem?

I have absolutely no clue about cars.

Thanks!

Chugging usually an exhaust issue or another car piece. Iv no clue either! Whats a spark plug?

Something have to be replaced cost a few bob but take it to a garage they do something for you and check out and recommend you do.

biko

doovdela wrote: »

Whats a spark plug?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-ITPBZLnBU