SantaFe diesel engine power loss

Hey there! Your problem sounds familiar. I had similar issues with my old Opel Astra, although it was a petrol engine. Reduced power, the dreaded check engine light, and jerky acceleration – the whole shebang! It could definitely be a fuel issue. A lean condition basically means your engine isn't getting the right air-fuel mixture. The engine control unit (ECU) uses readings from various sensors to calculate the amount of fuel to inject. A faulty injector, or dirty fuel injectors, could be the culprit, like you said. Also check the mass air flow (MAF) sensor, as it is responsible for measuring the amount of air entering the engine. A faulty MAF can cause the ECU to miscalculate the required fuel.

Thanks for the insight! I'm not too familiar with the MAF sensor. Where is it located, and is there a simple way to test it before I start replacing parts? Also, you mentioned dirty fuel injectors. Is there a way to clean them without taking everything apart? I'm trying to avoid a costly repair if possible.

Alright, so the MAF sensor is usually located in the air intake, between the air filter box and the throttle body. It's pretty easy to spot – just look for a sensor with a wire connector plugged into the intake piping. As for testing, there are some DIY methods using a multimeter to check the sensor's voltage output, but honestly, unless you're comfortable with electrical testing, it might be best to leave that to a professional. Regarding the fuel injectors, you can try using a fuel injector cleaner additive that you pour into your fuel tank. Some people have had success with those. However, if the problem persists, it's probably best to take it to a workshop. It does sound like you have an injector issue.

Thanks a lot for your help and advice! I took it to a local workshop, and they confirmed that one of the fuel injectors was indeed defective. They replaced it, and the engine now runs smoothly. The total repair cost was around 515€. I really appreciate your input!