Fuel filter problem?

tipperary

Looking for a little bit of advice please?
I drive a Ford Focus 2005 reg, 1.6 petrol with 200k kms. Yesterday the car started intermittently losing power ('chugging') when accelerating, particularly up to 3000 rpm. I have taken the car on a few trips since, and it happens every time. At higher revs it seems to be OK for some reason.
I can still hear the fuel pump as normal when starting the car, so I don't think that's the problem. Seems to me that it could be the fuel filter needs replacing. The only doubt I have is that the problem has occurred so suddenly.
Is there anything else that this is likely to be?

martinr5232

Possible ignition coil plug lead or spark plug problem.
Pull out one of the plug leads and make sure there is no water in there first of all.

Atlantic Dawn

Any warning lights on the dash? Is it idling rough?

tipperary

No warning lights, and no error codes either. Idles perfect too.
I'll check the plugs tomorrow and see if it's dry around them.

Johnasarusrex

Which 1.6? There is two, if its the 1.6 115Bhp it could be the cam timing related. If not the F/Filter in them are supposedly a lifetime part, the one of the MK1 Focus should work should only be a few quid in a motor factors

tipperary

Thanks all for your help. Couldn't find a fuel filter in stock, but decided to change the spark plugs anyway as they hadn't been done in a long time. The problem is gone...well nearly gone. There is still a very small bit of 'chugging' very occasionally, say if accelerating up a hill, but it is very occasional. Reckon I'll get the plug leads checked to see if they're OK.
martinr5232 - good diagnostic skills!

martinr5232

Stick a set of leads on it should be grand.
If you havent thrown away the old plugs check them for tracking on the porcelin bit thats where the spark is jumping when its under load.