Why is the engine light not only on, but flashing on my 2ltr petrol 2001 vw beetle, and the car is jolting even when idle (feels like it will stall), and it stinks like a firework???

It feels like it is losing power as i try to accelerate and then it pulls through. also, it is jolting. a lot! feels like the thing may stall, even when it is idle. there is an odd noise coming from the engine, in time with the jolts. and it stinks!! like fireworks maybe??? can't quite place the smell but it is familiar. in the past 4 months it has had a new alternator, head gasket, water pump and and engine flush. this new thing was very sudden...engine light appeared and began flashing immediately and with in 10 mins i could feel the car was really struggling. thank you in advance for your help.

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Bill George

Ford Master 2,517 Answers
Posted on Apr 16, 2017

Bill George

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Your light is flashing because it is telling you it needs attention right away. Get the codes pulled and fix the problem. Sounds like a emissions. Sensor problem or a blocked up catalytic converter.

5 Related Answers

Mike Butler

6674 Answers
Posted on Apr 21, 2009

SOURCE: 01 taurus v6, chugging @idle & acceler. engine light blinking

Drop in to autozone, or Pep boys and have it scanned, free, for trouble codes then go from there. Could be something simple & cheap

Anonymous

15 Answers
Posted on May 18, 2009

SOURCE: 2001 Ford Focus stalls momentarily and randomly

Check out this site:

http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2001/ford/focus/recalls/index.html

Anonymous

17 Answers
Posted on Jun 12, 2009

SOURCE: 2002 mustang makes rattling sound when accelerating...

Possible bad motor mount(s) --only thumps or rattles when power is going to the wheels.

Anonymous

101 Answers
Posted on Oct 19, 2009

SOURCE: 2000 Ford Focus SE Sony Limited Edition; stalls while idling

not sure, but if battery was dead and alt was replaced.... the computer may have lost some of its memory and need to be re-flashed

Anonymous

2 Answers
Posted on Dec 21, 2009

SOURCE: Windstar 2001 had it since new. over 120,000 miles

The problem with your van is the CAM Sensor, I believe the noise you are hearing is kind of a chirping sound. I just had mine fixed (12/19/09) it was about $150 for parts and labor from a local Mech. not a dealer.

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Why is the engine light not only on, but flashing on my 2ltr petrol 2001 vw beetle, and the car is jolting even when idle (feels like it will stall), and it stinks like a firework???