Does anyone know why my car, which has 100 K on the clock and which, up until this morning was behaving normally, developed a judder about a mile in to my journey each time I changed gear (usually between 2nd, 3rd and 4th). A short while later, the engine cut out with all warning lights coming on. Luckily I managed to stop somewhere safe, and after two or three unsuccessful attempts at starting the car (engine cut out within seconds of starting up) I called the AA who were able to start the car and keep the engine running but were unable to make a diagnosis. Managed to get car back home but all the time with an unnerving judder each time I changed gear. About to take it to the garage but wondered if anyone has had previous experience of what I have described.

Paul, December 2010

Thanks for the suggestions. My local garage cleaned and replaced the EGR valve but problem persisted. They picked up on a noise coming from the timing belt housing which they warned would be expensive to go poking around in; this together with damaged wiper blades and general wear and tear to the car which has had fairly heavy use prompted them to advise me to start looking around for a new car, which I now have --another Zafira (!) but one that's only 3 years old and with only 22K on the clock. What a difference!

Paul, December 2010

EGR valve at a guess. I'd replace it, or clean it thoroughly.

When was it last serviced, when were the spark plugs last renewed?

ChicksFan, December 2010

wel i got the same problem sounds like gearbox like myn check gear oil for leaks or low fluid or may need a change....did you notice any whine frm gearbox

ROB, December 2010