I have got a 2001 1.25 Ford Fiesta zetec s and it keeps missing and lacks power, what can I do to solve it? I've changed the idle control valve because a few people said it would be that, can anybody help?

Tonka, February 2015

Check your coolant level. If it is going down and needs constant topping up then suspect the head gasket.

ChicksFan, February 2015

It's only started doing it lately it hasn't done it before only started today.

Tonka, February 2015

Most engines blow out some water from the exhaust from a cold start, especially if the vehicle is usd for mainly short runs. Condensation builds up in the exhaust system and is blown through when the car is first started. This is normal.

At worst it could be a blown head gasket. Get the cylinders compression tested to test for that. However I'd expect overheating and coolant loss if that was the case.

ChicksFan, February 2015

I will have a look at those, also there is quite abit of water what comes out the exhaust, what would that be?

Tonka, February 2015

I presume you have replaced the spark plugs and coil pack, as these are the most common items to fail and cause a misfire.

However, if you have already done this and still have a misfire, does it happen more when the engine gets warm? If so I'd suspect leaking core plugs in the cylinder head. There are two. When they leak they project a fine spray of water mist over the spark plugs and cause a misfire. The cure is replacement with new core plugs. Take the old ones out, clean up the threads, and screw in the new core plugs using the correct sealant. Good luck!

ChicksFan, February 2015