This is probably the AIR MASS SENSOR fitted to the air intake tube , I bet acceleration and general running is poor too , they are very easy to change, BUT you do need a special security torx headed bit to fit the special screws holding it into the air intake tube, DON'T try to bodge it with the wrong screw fitting !!! Genuine one about £100, so go on to Ebay and get a generic for about £50 , they work fine , hope this helps
Bufallo Bill, November 2010