Skoda Rapid TDI: Engine shuddering, power output seems lower

The low-end torque has slightly reduced, and at the high-end, I don't feel like the boost is hitting max.

BHPian RBhargav recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I have a Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI Ambition 2012 (bought it in 2019 at 65000 km).

Except for the first gear, the engine jerks when I try to accelerate even moderately. This happens usually at 1200 to 2000 RPM. The total power output also seems to have gone down a bit, just by feeling. The low-end torque has slightly reduced, and at the high-end, I don't feel like the boost is hitting max. If I drive the car for more than half an hour at 60+ kmph, it seems to get better.

The car has a K&N replacement air filter in good condition. Engine oil and filter were replaced 2 months back. No error codes in diagnostics. The service centre says the timing belt is OK. They don't really seem to be interested in troubleshooting this:

• 6 months back I had an injector failure and replaced it with an overhauled one. Don't know if any of the injectors have started to underperform. Does this seem like a fuel system issue? Should I try a fuel additive? (I once used a fuel additive in my bike and it was a disaster, so I am hesitant).
• Can the issue be in the ECU? Should I do a re-map? I saw code6 tuners are near my area, are they reliable?
• If it is an exhaust system issue (near the cat), how can I double-check myself?

Here;s what BHPian dhanushs had to say on the matter:

I myself have a similar model Vento, and the symptoms you say point out to an injector failure. Assuming the car is properly serviced at the A.S.S. Otherwise, a blocked diesel filter can also be an issue.

Here's what BHPian JayPrashanth had to say on the matter:

Is your car on the stock clutch? If yes, a replacement may be in order. Shuddering while the car is moving at idle speeds is a typical warning sign of a clutch that needs replacing.

Also, do NOT attempt modifications until the car's performance is back to stock-car levels.

Cheers,

Jay

Here's what BHPian mc187 had to say on the matter:

I had the same issue with my Swift long ago. It culprit was the clutch. Had to change the complete assembly. I would suggest you to get it diagnosed with the A.S.S first, do not mention clutch issue as they will happily replace it and hand you a hefty bill. Let them figure out the issue first.

Here's what BHPian ObsessedByFIAT had to say on the matter:

I too feel it is a problem with the injector failure. A friend is going through a similar issue on his Figo TDCi.The car shudders a lot and has gone in limp mode.

Since you have already replaced a injector with an over hauled one, I would assume that is the week link here.

Do you see any tell tale lights on the console?

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