UK Car Repair: vauxhall astra 1.4 16v model year 2000[w reg], mass air flow sensor, mass air flow


Question
would the lambda sensor[o2 sensor] cause this type of problem?
and would the mass air flow sensor cause this?
how can i check both bearing in mind none have shown up as error codes on ecu.
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how do i check for vacume leak [would the compression test show this up ?]
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no warning lights.
took it to vauxhall. all they did was clean out throttle body and iac valve [idle air control valve]makes me wonder if they even test drove it [which they said they did].but obviously has not solved problem.
just wondering it cant be the o2 sensor as that only works on constant throttle and idle and not on wide open throttle ...but my car is unresponsive everywhere!
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hi i have a astra 1.4 16v w reg [model year 2000]
i have just replaced the complete zorst system [uppipe/cat, centre box,back box] from kwik fit.

i had to replace it becuase due to a breaking cat which finaly broke and blocked the exhaust and the car cut out when i was on the motorway and wouldnt start- but it did turn over.apparantly ruining the centre box and backbox with bits from cat!

the question is would i have damaged anything [valves,seals..] by driving to this point of the exhaust getting blocked and cuting out on the motorway?

also i get a jerky hesitation at around 2000 - 2500rpm under load. and the car runs very unresponsive throughout the rev range and any gear?
any ideas ..could it be the o2 sensor or did kwik fit forget to put a sensor back in place on the zorst?

i dont think an air leak in the zorst would do this would it?
i also have the idle hunting up and down slightly most of the time.
thanks
regards
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No, it is unlikely you would have done any engine damage. As for the lack of power, it appears to be running lean -not enough fuel- this could be caused by a vacuum leak or a bad sensor.  Are there any warning lights on?  If convenient it might be worth taking it back to Kwik Fit and asking them to recheck things.
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What about timing? It sounds as if the problem is affecting the whole range. It is strange that the Cat would self destruct as it did. You have to go back to basics, do a compression test to ensure you have 4 good cylinders, then, check the ignition and valve timing.
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Vacuum leaks can generally be heard, it is a "sucking" type of hiss.  It will not show up on a compression test, this test is to ensure there is good sealing in the cylinder and that the engine can build up enough pressure to provide the power needed to drive the car. One way to check for vacuum leaks is, with the engine running, disconnect the vacuum hoses one at a time and block the open fitting with a finger, if there is a noticeable change in engine idle, then you have a leak in that line.   Bill

Answer
Normally, any problem with major components will show up on the diagnosttic system, but not always. Your only way to test these would be by substitution. An 02 sensor can likely be purchased aftermarket, such as on eBay.  Did you do a compression test and check the timing?