LWeiserRider

Seat Ibiza rough running issue

Alright, so I've got a 2003 Seat Ibiza with a gasoline engine and about 146000 km on the clock. Lately, it's been running really rough, like it's got a mind of its own. The check engine light is on, and it's jerking like crazy when I try to speed up. I plugged in an OBD reader and it says there's an error, but I'm thinking it might be something to do with a leak in the exhaust system. Any ideas before I start throwing money at it? I have already checked the timing belt and crankshaft sensor.

4 comment(s)

Sounds familiar! I had a similar issue with my Seat Ibiza too, although it's a bit newer. Check engine light, rough running, the whole shebang. Did you check the spark plugs or maybe the ignition coil? That can cause misfires and jerking.

Spark plugs and ignition coil I can check myself, sounds easy enough. But how would a leaky exhaust cause the engine to run rough? Seems weird to me.

Yeah, a leak can mess things up. The oxygen sensor reads the exhaust gases, and if there's a leak, it gives the wrong info to the engine computer. The computer then adjusts the fuel mixture, which can cause rough running and jerking. I'd still check the spark plugs and ignition coil, just to rule them out. But it might be worth getting the exhaust checked first. If you don't have the tools, better take it to a workshop. Could save you a headache, and the fuel pump is not likely the problem.

Cheers, took it to a garage and you were spot on! Turned out to be a small hole in the exhaust manifold. Cost me 265€ to get it welded up. Runs like a dream now, no more jerking!

Join the discussion now: