UK Car Repair: Vectra 1.8 16v ems light, code mode, intermittent problem

Question
Hi,

I have just bought a vectra 1.8 16v 1995 n reg.
I drove it 40 miles when it cut out on me when it dropped to near 1000 revs. the ems light comes on and it stalls, but it is an intermittent problem. sometimes the car drives fine, other times its a nightmare.

any help with what the problem may be would be great, as i intend on getting it mended as cheap as possible. ive also tried the paperclip trick to read the ems problem codes, but it failed to work with my car fro some reason...

I hope you can help,

Thank you in advance.

Jordan

Answer
The vectra is noted to have an ECM problem and many have failed for no apparent reason which would be a reason for not being able to go into diagnostic code mode. I would take it to a shop and have them throw a scanner on it and see if the computer is batty then take if from their.


Regards,

John