Black Smoke & Stalling: Vauxhall Adam Engine Crisis

Hey there! I've got some experience working on cars (some experience level), and I actually faced something similar with my 2017 Vauxhall Corsa last year. Those symptoms sound very familiar! After dealing with similar issues, black smoke, stalling, and rough acceleration, it turned out to be a faulty wiring harness connected to the fuel system. Took it to my regular mechanic at AutoCare, and they diagnosed the problem pretty quickly. The wiring harness had deteriorated and was causing all sorts of electrical issues with the fuel system sensors. Got it replaced for about 95 Euro, and the car's been running perfectly since then. Could definitely be the same issue on your Adam, but I'd need to know:, How many miles are on your car? When did these symptoms first start? Have you had any recent repairs done? Let me know these details and I might be able to help more specifically!

Thanks for your input! Mine's at 36381 KM and just had its service last month. The symptoms actually started right after that service, which makes me wonder if something wasn't properly connected during maintenance. I'll definitely have them check the wiring harness, that's a really helpful suggestion and much cheaper than what I was worried it might be! Did you notice any warning lights before the problems got worse with yours?

Hey again! Yeah, I totally get your concern about the timing, having issues right after a service is definitely suspicious. Actually, with my Corsa, I did notice the check engine light flickering on and off for about a week before things got really bad. It started pretty similar to what you're describing, first just occasional jerking during acceleration, then it snowballed from there. Since you mentioned it started after the service, I'd definitely go back to the same garage and have them check it out. When I had my wiring harness issue, it also messed with various sensor readings, which is probably why you're getting those fuel sensor concerns. In my case, the symptoms got worse pretty quickly after the warning lights started. One thing I learned from my experience, don't wait too long to get it checked. I drove around with the problem for about two weeks before getting it fixed, and it just made everything worse. Ended up having to get my oxygen sensor replaced too because the wonky electrical signals messed it up. Maybe take it back to where you had the service done? They might even fix it for free if it's related to their recent work. Worth a shot, right?

Thanks so much for the detailed advice! You've actually made me feel a lot better about this whole situation. I'm going to call the service center first thing tomorrow and explain everything, especially about how it started right after their work. I'll definitely mention the wiring harness possibility and get them to check those connections. Really glad I asked here before panicking and assuming the worst! Will update the thread once I get it sorted out. Thanks again for sharing your experience, it's been super helpful!