Skoda Superb is a nice luxury midsize car with lots of fascinating features. While it is not as popular as the Skoda Octavia, this car also offers comfort, excellent performance, and it’s spacious. But like most cars, it also has several problems that users should know about. So, what are the common problems with the Skoda Superb?
The common problems with the Skoda Superb include a faulty tailgate, leakage issues, gearbox problems, fire risk, keyless entry problems, failing ball joints, and rusting alloys. Other users have also reported experiencing faulty rear wheel bearing housing, electrical issues, and failing ABS sensors.
What are the common problems with Skoda Superb?
Faulty tailgate
This is one of the major complaints about the Skoda Superb. Users have reported their tailgate creaking when being opened or closed and it also feels stiff. The main cause of this issue is the lack of lubrication in the tailgate hinges. If the hinges are not damaged, lubricating them should fix the issue. But if they are damaged, you will have to replace them.
Gearbox problems
Skoda Superb users have also complained about gearbox problems. This should be expected as the Skoda Superb comes with a DSG gearbox. Many users have reported the car jerking when they change gears. Additionally, they also said that you’ve to struggle to shift between gears. The best fix is to replace the gearbox.
Leakage problems
Leakage issues are common with Skoda models. The Skoda Superb is not an exception. When it rains, users should look out around the front of the car and to the bottom of the windscreen. The leakage is normally caused by the plenum chamber or drainage holes that get blocked with debris and leaves.
To fix this issue, you should unblock the drainage holes or plenum chamber.
Rusting alloys
Another common but overlooked problem on the Skoda Superb is rusting alloys. The alloy on the Skoda Superb rusts prematurely and there’s nothing you can do about it. The best way to fix this problem is by replacing the rusted alloys with new ones.
Failing ball joints
After driving your Skoda Superb for some time, the front suspension ball joints may fail. One of the signs of bad or failing ball joints is hearing a knocking noise when driving over speed bumps or poorly surfaced roads. Replace the bad suspension ball joints to fix the problem.
Electrical issues
Electrical issues are common in the 2015 Skoda Superb model year. They are normally caused by an improperly installed cable clamp. To fix this problem, you will have to replace the faulty cable clamp. This is very easy and even DIYers can do it.
Fire risk
If the used Skoda Superb you intend to acquire was manufactured between 2008 and 2009, you should check if the fire issue was resolved. The Superb models made during this period had a faulty heating element. Nonetheless, Skoda recalled the affected cars, and the problem was fixed.
Airbag fault
This problem is usually witnessed in the 2018 Skoda Superb model year. Besides, most owners of this car don’t know if they have this problem until it’s too late. To be safe and prepared for the worst, you should have a new airbag installed.
Keyless entry problems
Another problem that most Skoda Superb users have reported is the keyless entry not working. Some users noted that they placed it close but it didn’t function. This usually happens because of key fob battery is too low. Replace the battery and see whether the issue is fixed. But if it doesn’t, you will have to fix or replace the keyless entry-locking system.
Faulty rear wheel bearing housing
This issue is common in the 2017 Skoda Superb model year. This is because the metal housing wasn’t hardened enough. So, before you buy a second-hand Skoda Superb made in 2017, ensure that the user had this problem fixed by the manufacturer as they issued a recall.
FAQ
Is the Skoda Superb reliable?
Yes, the Skoda Superb is a considerably reliable car compared to other midsize luxury sedans. Most reliable agencies have given it an above-average score, which is very impressive as it’s a luxury car. Nonetheless, it is not as reliable as its competitors from Lexus or Hyundai, but it is more reliable than its rivals from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
How long does the Skoda Superb last?
The Skoda Superb is quite reliable. When properly maintained and cared for, this car can clock over 200,000 miles. Besides, it is one of the most long-lasting cars from the Volkswagen group. Aside from proper care and maintenance, good driving habits should also be exercised for the car to last long.
What is the most reliable Skoda Superb model year?
The Skoda Superb has been in the market from 2001 to date. While most of the Skoda Superb model years have been exceptional, the 2015 model year has stood out from the competition. This car was named the best family car in 2015 by Auto Express UK. It is very reliable and cheaper to maintain than most Skoda Superb model years.
Is it expensive to maintain the Skoda Superb?
Yes, maintaining the Skoda Superb is pretty expensive. This is because this car shares most of its parts with Audi and Volkswagen. And since it is a luxury car, most of its parts are reasonably costlier than those of mainstream brands like Toyota or even Suzuki.
Is Skoda Superb better than Skoda Octavia?
The Skoda Superb and Skoda Octavia share many features. However, they are still different in many ways. For instance, the Skoda Superb comes with more boot space and it is slightly bigger than the Octavia. On the other hand, the Skoda Octavia is way cheaper with better fuel efficiency than the Superb.
So, if you’re looking for a larger and more luxurious sedan, the Skoda Superb is the better choice. But if you want an affordable, but a safe and more fuel-efficient option, the Skoda Octavia is the better selection.
Final thoughts
The Skoda Superb not only performs well, but it is also safe, practical, spacious, comfortable, and fun to drive. Now that you know the problems that the Skoda Superb faces, it should be easier to properly maintain the car and avoid most of the issues for a smooth and great driving experience with this Czech car.