The Skoda Scala is a nice car for a family as it is spacious and practical. It is also great for daily driving as it is efficient and reliable. But like most cars, this model also has various problems that interested buyers should know about. However, what are the common problems with the Skoda Scala?
Some of the common problems with the Skoda Scala are defective seat covers, faulty software, juddering, uneven wear across rear tires, and excessive oil usage. Other users have reported having turbo failure, clogged fuel injectors, and timing chain failure.
What are the common problems with Skoda Scala?
Faulty software
This problem may not be common in all Skoda Scala models, but it forced the manufacturer to make recalls. The software of the communication module for the emergency call system does not meet the recommended specifications. Instead, the wrong dataset was uploaded to the OCU unit.
Therefore, the functions of the e-call and info or service call will not work correctly because of this software error. Nonetheless, the good news is that all the affected cars were recalled. The manufacturer recalled Skoda Scala models made between August and September 2019.
Defective seat covers
Another issue that forced the manufacturer to recall Skoda Scala models made between February and September 2019 is defective seat covers. The manufacturer noted that the seams of the seat covers can be defective. As a result, this may affect the protective function of the side airbags, thus heightening the dangers of injuries in case of an accident.
So, if you intend to purchase a used Skoda Scala model made in 2019, ensure that this problem was fixed.
Uneven wear across rear tires
Despite not being very common, several users have reported having uneven wear across rear tires. One of the users stated that his rear tires went from 6mm on the inner edge to 3mm on the outer edge of both rear tires.
Uneven wear on tires is usually caused by a worn-out suspension, poor alignment, overinflation, and underinflation. Take your car to a professional mechanic for inspection and repair.
Clogged fuel injectors
This problem is common in all Skoda models and the Skoda Scala is not an exception. However, this issue usually shows up as your car puts on several miles. The fuel injectors are clogged because of carbon build-up. Nevertheless, fixing this issue is easy as you will have to remove and clean the fuel injectors.
Excessive oil usage
The Skoda Scala model also uses a lot of oil. Nonetheless, this problem is more rampant with the 1.5-liter TSI engine. Some of the things that contribute to excessive oil usage are bad piston rings, valves, and damaged turbo seals.
Even though this problem cannot be fixed completely, you can have the mechanic inspect your engine and find out if there is a leak or any other issue aggravating oil usage.
Juddering
Several people have as complained that the car judders when accelerating. This usually happens when the driver started the car at low speeds. It also happens at stop lights and when going into acceleration after taking the car out of parking.
Like the first problem that we looked at, this seems to be a manufacturing problem with the Volkswagen 1.5 TSI engines. So, the manufacturer should look into the issue.
Timing chain failure
Even though not very common, some Skoda Scala users have also reported having timing chain failures. Timing chain failure stems from either damaged pistons or damaged valvetrain. What’s more, if the timing chain tensioner fails, the timing chain will also fail.
It is important to fix a bad timing chain in time as it can cause severe damage to the engine.
Turbo failure
Last but not least, the Skoda Scala also has recorded turbo failure. Even though it’s early for some people to report this issue on the Skoda Scala, this is a problem that is common on all Skoda models. It is vital to note that the main cause of turbo failure is irregular maintenance. Regular maintenance prevents the build-up of contaminants that can damage the Turbo.
FAQ
Is Skoda Scala reliable?
Skoda produces some of the most reliable models on the market. And since most of the Skoda Scala parts are based on the Volkswagen Group, this is a pretty reliable car. Besides, many reliability agencies have given an above-average reliability score to this model. So, you shouldn’t worry about dependability when you acquire this car.
How long does the Skoda Scala last?
Skoda is a very reliable and durable brand. If properly maintained, the Skoda Scala can last for more than 200k miles. However, since the Scala model has not been on the market for long, it is quite early to determine how long it will last. But when we compare it with other similar Skoda trims, it should last for more than 250k miles.
Is it expensive to maintain the Skoda Scala?
Like most Skoda models, the Skoda Scala is pretty cheap to maintain. Not only has this car registered fewer issues since its inception, but it is also cheaper to maintain than most of its rivals. The only problem that the user will encounter when it comes to maintenance is the cost of spare parts and service.
Has the Skoda Scala been discontinued?
No, the Skoda Scala has not been discontinued. It is a new model that has been in production from 2019 to date. It is here to stay and has already received several facelifts. What’s more, this car is offered in various variants and engine options that give users several alternatives.
Is Skoda Scala efficient?
Yes, Skoda’s are some of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market. The Skoda Scala is not an exception. Besides, the Skoda Scala is one of the most efficient cars in its class. This is because it has a fuel efficiency rating of 40 mpg, which is exceptional. Note that this is for its 1.0-liter TSI engine.
Conclusion
The Skoda Scala is a fantastic hatchback with exceptional features and performance. It is also spacious and very practical. However, this car also comes with various problems that users should know about. But with proper care and maintenance, most of the issues discussed above can be avoided.
If you’re buying a used Skoda Scala, it is vital to ensure that the issues the manufacturer recalled have been attended to.