The Skoda Octavia is by far the best-selling Skoda model in the market. This car is well-designed, luxurious, and comes with lots of outstanding features. On top of that, it is very reliable compared to most of its rivals. However, it also comes with several issues that interested buyers should know about. But what are the common problems with the Skoda Octavia?
Common problems with the Skoda Octavia include gearbox problems, electrical issues, faulty dual mass flywheel, leakage problems, faulty child lock, headlamp issues, and DPF problems. Additionally, users have reported having a lack of power, failing wing mirror indicator, and EGR Valve problems.
What are the common problems with Skoda Octavia?
Gearbox issues
The DSG gearbox in automatic Skoda Octavia models is a well-known Volkswagen DSG gearbox. After some time, this gearbox develops an issue, such as problems with shifting in between gears causing a clunky feel when accelerating or decelerating. This is normally caused by a fault in both the gearbox and the mechatronic control system.
You can fix this problem by either replacing or repairing the affected parts.
Electrical problems
Electrical issues are also common with the Skoda Octavia. Many users have reported Octavia’s Sat-nav system developing issues. Nonetheless, this issue is common in the 2014 to 2020 Skoda Octavia models. Another common electrical issue is a central locking failure. This is usually caused by a blown fuse. To fix this issue, you will have to replace the bad fuse.
EGR Valve problems
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation or EGR valve is prone to get blocked in the Skoda Octavia. This is because it develops carbon build-up that causes hesitation and rough engine idling. As a result, the user may notice a lack of acceleration.
The good news is that fixing this problem is reasonably easy as you only have to clean the carbon build-up and the issue will be fixed.
Leakage issues
This is a very frustrating problem as the Skoda Octavia is a luxurious car from Volkswagen. Many users have reported having a wet boot, leaking side windows, and water leakage in the passenger front footwell. Most of these leakage issues are caused by body design problems. For instance, leaking side windows are caused by a lack of primer being used in the manufacturing process.
Lack of power
Like the EGR Valve, the throttle body also gets clogged up with carbon buildup. This issue leads to a lack of acceleration and it can also cause car stalling at junctions. In some cases, you may also notice splutters and coughs when idle. To fix this issue, you will have to clean the throttle body.
DPF problems
The engine in the Skoda Octavia is designed in a way that it has to be pushed to a higher level of performance annually. Failure to do so can lead to a blockage in the diesel particulate filter. To fix this issue, you may have to clean the particulate filter or replace it if it is damaged. Besides, you can also drive out of town frequently to prevent this issue from happening.
Headlamp issues
Aside from the Skoda Octavia having leakage issues, some users have also reported moisture getting into the headlamp unit. As a result, this can cause the part to short prematurely, or water on the lens may cause issues with effective diffraction. Nevertheless, this issue should be straightforward to fix with a visual inspection.
Faulty dual mass flywheel
This is one of the major recalls that was issued by Skoda. The dual mass flywheel on the Skoda Octavia has been known to fall apart leading to massive failure within the engine. However, the affected cars were recalled and the issue was fixed. So, before buying a used Skoda Octavia model with this problem, you should that the user fixed it.
Failing wing mirror indicator
Another problem that is caused by the manufacturer’s defect in body design is the failing wing mirror indicator. The wing mirror indicator failure is caused by water leaking into the LED lights. To fix this problem, you will have to replace the damaged or affected wing mirror indicators.
Faulty child lock
Several users have complained that the child lock can disengage without the driver noticing. As a result, this allows occupants to open the door from the inside and leave. If you’re under warranty, Skoda can fix this problem for you, but if not, you will be required to replace the entire locking system.
FAQ
Is Skoda Octavia reliable?
Yes, the Skoda Octavia is pretty reliable. Most reliability agencies have given it an above-average reliability score. However, if it’s compared to Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Suzuki, they are far more reliable. But it is more reliable than Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
How long does the Skoda Octavia last?
It depends on how well you maintain and drive your car. If you follow Skoda’s recommended schedule maintenance service, your car will clock more than 150,000 miles. Some users have reported clocking more than 300,000 miles, which is very impressive for such a luxurious car.
What is the most reliable Skoda Octavia model year?
Most Skoda Octavia model years built after 2015 are considered reliable. This is because they are fitted with improved and more reliable DSG gearboxes. Nonetheless, the most reliable Skoda Octavia model is the 2018 model year. This car records a few issues and it is pretty reliable.
Is it expensive to maintain the Skoda Octavia?
Yes, maintaining the Skoda Octavia is pretty costlier than mainstream cars. But when compared to other luxury cars like Audi and Mercedes, you will find that maintaining the Skoda Octavia is way cheaper. While the cost of labor for maintaining the Skoda is low, its spare parts are pretty costly.
Which car is better – Skoda or Audi?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a car with top-notch and advanced features, Audi is the better option. But if you want a car that is more affordable, reliable, and cheaper to maintain, then you should consider getting the Skoda. On the contrary, both cars are under Volkswagen.
Conclusion
All in all, the Skoda Octavia is a beautiful, reliable, luxurious, and spacious car. If properly maintained and cared for, this car can last for more than 150,000 miles. Now that you know some of the common problems with the Skoda Octavia, you should take care of your car to avoid most of them. This will help lower the cost of repairs in the long run.