V6 4M Problem?

[grobson]

Hi, I have a V6 4m and have had it for a couple of weeks. During the first week it was running like a dream, but since the 2nd week I have noticed flat spots when accelerating. Seems to suffer from a lack of power until you get over 3500 rpm and then it really picks up.

Having lifted the bonnet, when you accelerate there is a loud sucking noice initially, like its gasping for air.

Is this normal? There also appears to be a clicking noise coming from the left and side of the engine when the ignition is on. Am i being paranoid?

Cheers

[VR6Chris]

Check for the obvious leaks on hoses that run from the air intake/throttle body area - right hnd side of engine bay as you look in. Is there a standard air box? does it have a filter element? or is it a K&N performance cone type, they give a loud sucking noise. The air mass meter is another possible culprit. Clicking could be any number of things including the auxilary water circulation pump. Part throttle flat spots in this type of vehicle are most likely sensor related. Do the easy observation bits first - then if all that fails get a diagnostic run with a Vagcom or at the stealer, you could be looking for weeks. there's so much electronic magic under the hood.
Good luck

[ub7rm]

With regards to the ticking noise, if its coming from a black cylinder near the windscreen wash bottle (assuming engine layout is roughly the same as 1.8T......) then this is normal.  Will cycle on and off when the engine is on.  To check put your hand on top when it is making the noise, you should be able to feel a corresponding vibration.  I believe this is the exhaust gas recirculation unit....