Sputtering Vauxhall Astra

[Jamesewer]

I have a 2005 Vauxhall Astra, and it has developed a sputtering problem at low revs. The only way to describe it is, the engine seems to catch, the car 'bucks' engine power suddenly drops, and I have to quickly give more throttle to avoid stalling. I only notice it when I am city driving, where you do a lot of slow creeping forward at low revs in congested traffic. The problem is progressively becoming worse. I have taken it to the garage 3 times, and they changed the coil pack which did little to fix the problem.

[tonyav]

Does it tick over ok ?.

[Jamesewer]

(Thankyou for response Tonyav) Usually yes, but twice it has stalled whilst I am stationary and in Neutral

[tonyav]

I have had similar problems in the past with two cars, both were Vauxhalls a Carlton and a Calibra. The problem was with the idle ( tickover ) control valve sticking. I changed the faulty part with new ones, problem solved.

[TWR]

If you know a bit about cars, check the Air Intake pipes.

[alavahalf]

A blocked air filter could slow the engine and stall it ... try the simple things first.

[Jamesewer]

Thanks every one, will give each suggestion a try.