The Skoda Kodiaq is a powerful mid-size SUV with top-notch features. And if you intend to use this car for towing, it has a towing capacity of up to 2000 kgs or 4,409.245 lbs. But what are the Skoda Kodiaq towbar problems?
Some of the problems that Skoda Kodiaq owners with towbars should expect to have are faulty electrics, braking problems, and tire issues. Furthermore, some owners have reported having trouble attaching or detaching, and turning off the rear traffic alert and blind spot monitor in reverse.
Also, check out our post about other Skoda Kodiaq problems.
What are the Skoda Kodiaq towbar problems?
Turns off rear traffic alert and blind spot monitor in reverse
This is one of the main problems that Skoda Kodiaq owners with a towbar have complained about. Most of them have stated that they noticed this issue after fitting the towbar. One of the users stated that when he put the car into reverse, the rear traffic and blind spot monitor said there was an error and it turns them off.
If your car is having this issue, then there is a high chance that the towbar hasn’t been wired or coded well. If that’s the case, then you will have to visit a professional mechanic to have it fixed. What’s more, you should ensure to get the right and recommended towbar for use on your Skoda Kodiaq.
Faulty electrics
If you decide to fix a towbar on your Skoda Kodiaq, then you will also require to fix a towbar electrical wiring. This is crucial as it powers the lights on the back of your trailer. However, since there are different types of wiring, you will need to fix the right one to avoid having electrical faults.
Some cars like the Skoda Kodiaq have vehicle-specific wiring that has been built to work with a specific electrical system. So, if you install the wrong system, you may have electrical faults. Besides, electrical faults can also be caused by corrosion, physical damage, and poor connections.
Difficulty attaching or detaching
Unlike some cars in the market, the Skoda Kodiaq does not come with a towbar. Therefore, you will have to fit one. Nonetheless, it comes with a non-visible cut that has to be cut to install the ball. The owner will have to cut the bumper to mount the towbar.
However, cutting the bumper and attaching the towbar is not easy. You will have to seek a professional mechanic to fit the towbar properly. That’s why you may also have to visit a mechanic when attaching or detaching the towbar to avoid improper installation.
Braking issues
Another overlooked issue with Skoda Kodiaq models with a towbar is braking problems. Since towing a load means that your car has more inertia and momentum, your car’s brakes have to work harder to bring it to a stop. As a result, this can have a toll on your brakes.
That’s why it is crucial to have your brakes inspected often to avoid most braking issues. What’s more, you may have most of your brake parts replaced earlier than usual.
Tire issues
Aside from brakes, towing will also place a lot of pressure on your Skoda Kodiaq tires. That’s why it is vital to ensure that your car tires have the right pressure. Low pressure can lead to increased braking distance, raises the temperature, makes driving uncomfortable, weakens vehicle traction, and can also cause a tire blowout.
To avoid most tire issues caused by towbars, you should ensure that the tires have the right pressure and are properly aligned.
FAQ
How long does a towbar last?
The longevity of a towbar is determined by various aspects. It will depend on the weights, road conditions, and how far out of level your tow bar is. Nevertheless, with good care and maintenance, a towbar should last for at least 70,000 miles. In some cases, it can clock even 90k miles.
Is a tow bar bad for your car?
Yes, a towbar is not good for your car even though it has its advantages. This is because heavy towing has unseen effects on several parts of your car, with the engine and transmission being the most affected. An engine that has been towing will be significantly more strained than an engine of the same age that has been tow-free.
How do I protect my automatic transmission when towing?
Towing not only puts pressure on the engine, but it also puts pressure on other car parts like the transmission. So, if you want to protect the transmission and other car parts, you will have to handle the towing job well.
Tips to protect your transmission while towing include staying within the limits of your car’s towing capacity and driving carefully while towing. Additionally, you will have to check tire pressure, prevent the transmission from overheating, and maintain your car as recommended by the manufacturer.
Does a towbar affect fuel consumption?
Of course, yes! A towbar will increase the fuel consumption of the Skoda Kodiaq. Note that any extra weight in, or on, a vehicle will increase its fuel usage. Therefore, if a towbar is added to your SUV, expect the fuel usage to increase. However, it will have less effect than that of an extra passenger.
How do you maintain a towbar?
Maintaining a towbar is as important as maintaining any part of the car. If you want your towbar to last and have a few issues, it is vital to maintain it. One of the things that you should do is to perform regular inspections and maintenance. Moreover, you should keep the towball clean with thinners, white spirit, or brake cleaner to get rid of grease or other residues.
Furthermore, the surface of the tow ball should be free of grooves, rust, or seizing marks. This will ensure that your towball lasts longer and have fewer issues.
Conclusion
Skoda Kodiaq models with towbars are very practical and useful cars. A towbar helps the owner to tow their boat or even other cars on the road. However, if not properly maintained, a towbar can cause more trouble than good as seen above. But with good care and maintenance, most Skoda Kodiaq towbar issues can be avoided.
