Corsa Losing Power

[rosyposy]

Yesterday we were doing a 50mile trip and car was fine then we stopped for 15mins and it wouldn't start again. It was very foggy so we left the side lights on, and there was a lot of snow about. A friend came with jump leads (thank heaven for mobile phones!) and it started instantly, we still had about 3miles to go but while driving the power seemed to fade away, altho' we were able to drive the rest of the way albeit slowly. We parked the car and left it for about 4hours and when we tried it again it was fine, and got us back home no problem. This morning it started again instantly. My question is do you think these problems are connected or two separate things to worry about? The car is getting on a bit (55plate) but has been fine up to now, and it is the original battery -maybe we should change that? And advice please? -rosy

[douglas9401]

Have your battery condition and charging rate checked rosy. It only takes five minutes and it's free.

[KJN]

Could be the EGR valve. Google Vauxhall Corsa EGR valve for more info, otherwise it's a trip to the local dealer for a diagnostic check . Do you do low mileage and short trips?

[rosyposy]

Thank you both for replying. Yes we do a lot of short trips and just about 7000miles a year -rosy

[douglas9401]

Pleasure rosy, hope it's a cheap fix. :)

[KJN]

O.K. that's what it may be then, pretty common fault on the Corsa,

[rosyposy]

Thanks again, we will try the battery first then go for the diagnostic check -rosy

[rosyposy]

Thought I'd give an update to my query :o) The battery was just about kaput- got a very good new one from our local car parts supplier, (who came VERY well recommended) for £45 and he fitted it free and disposed of the old battery, whereas two big national co's wanted £79 +£1.75 for very similar battery!!!Hope the problem is solved, thank you again douglas and KJN for your help -rosy

[douglas9401]

Result! Happy motoring. :)

[Mass_Hysteria]

if I were you Rosy, I would give it a longer run occasionally as the short trips are probably using more power from the battery than is being generated each time. An hours run would do it good.

[rosyposy]

Thank you too Mass H, will do- if only the sun would shine :o( -rosy