UK Car Repair: 1997 Opel/Vauxhaul Fuel Pump Problem, vauxhaul, fuel pump

Question
Hi
Yesterday the car mentioned above just cut out on me and would not start. I was astounded when a friend actually suggested that I lift the rear seat and give the pump a good bashing. To my surprise the car started up again. Is this the fuel pump starting to go or do I have a more sinister underlying problem?

Answer
Your friend must have had an old car, the SU pumps, if they sat for a long time often needed "assistance".  It seems like it is a pump problem BUT, check the fuel filter first, if it is blocked that's the problem, if not, change it anyway with the pump.