Suddenly started chugging!

[greencode]

for relay number/positions check the fusebox faq in zee garage section.  i think you need to get your car onto vag-com!

if you cant then 1st thing I would do is replace the ecu temp sensor with a new one from VAG, its the 2 pin white one. also try unplugging the lambda, if problem goes away you need a new one! crank sensor is also a problem on these, its right down the bottom of the block onthe passenger side, behind the oil filter housing. usually the wires to them are all knackered by this age!

oh and dont worry about the airflow meter, a 16v doesnt have one

Thanks for this. Just to confirm a few things (forgive my ignorance) The ECU Temperature Sensor - is that a relay, a fuse? If not where can I find that. The Lambda - do I just unplug this and plug it back in again or leave it unplugged?

[rubjonny]

ecu temp sensor is screwed directly into the engine, its got 2 pins on and is white (well it'll be yellowy brown by now, but you get the idea )
replace it when the engine is proper stone cold, pop the header tank cap off then refit to release any pressure left in the system as its in a coolant channel, you'll loose a bit of coolant but if you're quick it wont be a lot.

lambda just disconnect the plug and tie it securly out of the way, see if the problem still occurs. if its solved then chances are its the lambda you need to replace, which isnt uncommon on these cars as they do wear out

[greencode]

ecu temp sensor is screwed directly into the engine, its got 2 pins on and is white (well it'll be yellowy brown by now, but you get the idea )
replace it when the engine is proper stone cold, pop the header tank cap off then refit to release any pressure left in the system as its in a coolant channel, you'll loose a bit of coolant but if you're quick it wont be a lot.

lambda just disconnect the plug and tie it securly out of the way, see if the problem still occurs. if its solved then chances are its the lambda you need to replace, which isnt uncommon on these cars as they do wear out

Thanks - really appreciate your input... I'll have a play at the weekend and see what's happening.

On a different note: Any ideas why the battery should be suddenly going flat after not using the car for 3-4 days? It's been fine since I had the car (last August) but no more! It probably is something as simple as it needs a new battery but just wondered...