Problems with Opel Corsa 2003: Power loss, high fuel consumption and black smoke

Hi, I had a similar problem with my Opel Astra, built in 2001. I'm not a car mechanic, but I have a bit of experience and occasionally work on my car myself. My problem was actually the lambda sensor. The ceramic inside was dirty/clogged. I then had it repaired at my regular garage, which cost a total of 375.0 euros. It wasn't cheap, but the car has been running like clockwork ever since. To provide more detailed information, it would be helpful if you could tell me in more detail how the problem manifests itself and what you have done so far. Perhaps also which parts you last changed and when the last oil change and inspection were. I hope that helps you a little!

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Hey, thanks for the quick reply! Well, the last time I had the car serviced was at 69544 km, when the oil was changed. No new parts were changed. The problem is that the car jerks when accelerating and doesn't rev up properly. The fuel consumption is also higher than normal and it stutters from time to time when driving. Black smoke also comes out of the exhaust when accelerating. To be honest, I haven't done anything yet because I first wanted to know whether it could really be the lambda sensor. Your experience has encouraged me to do so. The 375 euros would be worth the peace of mind. Hopefully that will be it. Thanks again for your help!

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Hello there! No problem, you're welcome. So, based on your description and my experience, it really could be the lambda sensor. The jerking when accelerating, the increased fuel consumption and the black smoke from the exhaust all fit the bill. It was pretty similar in my Astra and the new lambda sensor fixed the problem. As you say you haven't done anything yet and no new parts were changed last time, I would advise you to have a mechanic look at it. It would be nice if it's just the lambda sensor, but it could also be that something else is behind it, e.g. the throttle valve or the injector. Try it with the lambda sensor and then report whether it has improved. That might help other people in the future who have similar problems. Good luck and I'll keep my fingers crossed that it doesn't get more expensive!

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Hello and thank you for your thorough reply! I will take your advice and get the lambda sensor replaced. Don't worry, I'll post an update above the post as to whether it worked or not once the car is fixed. That way others who have the same problem may be able to benefit from it. If there are still problems after that, I'll have the rest checked out - the throttle body and injector also sound plausible. Thanks again for your help, I really appreciate it!

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