My girlfirend's 1.0i petrol Seat Arosa has had starting problems and issues with power for a while and I was wondering if anyone can offer suggestions- I've only ever owned and fiddled with diesel cars! This first manifested itself as intermittent losses of power when driving and progressed to having to turn the engine over for ages to get a start. It eventually broke down completely and she had it towed to the nearest garage. They have cleaned the breather pipes, replaced plugs and cables and done a few other things (I don't have details as information is coming via my girlfriend) but the problem still seems to be present and they seem to be clutching at straws now.

To me it seems to be some sort of fuel supply issue- the engine turns rapidly so I don't think it's the battery though I haven't checked voltage as yet. The starting problem seems to be worst if the car has stood overnight which makes me wonder if air is getting into the system somewhere and the fuel slipping all the way back into the tank. Or could it be a fuel pumping/ injection issue? I'd welcome any suggestions as repeated visits to the garage are getting tedious...

Thanks

Ade