Skoda Octavia is a wonderful car with exceptional performance, but it also experiences several issues. One of the common problems that users report about this car is head gasket issues. So, what are the Skoda Octavia head gasket problems?
Common problems with the Skoda Octavia head gasket are engine overheating, low coolant level, rough idling, and loss of power. Moreover, other Skoda Octavia users have recorded problems like faulty exhaust systems and leaking head gaskets. Despite registering several head gasket problems, Skoda Octavia users can detect most of these problems and avoid costly repairs.
What are the common problems with Skoda Octavia’s head gasket?
Engine overheating
The most common Skoda Octavia head gasket problem is the engine overheating. If the head gasket is blown, your engine will automatically overheat. Other things that cause the engine to overheat are a coolant leak, a faulty fan, a head gasket failure, and a clogged radiator.
A blown head gasket makes the car lose coolant, forcing the engine cooling system to underperform. As a result, the engine ends up overheating. To fix this issue, you will be required to replace the blown head gasket.
Rough idle
Apart from having a blown head gasket, a leaking head gasket can also cause several problems to your engine. If the head gasket has a leakage, it can cause the engine to run roughly or knock. Aside from the engine running idle, it can also stall. Nevertheless, it is important to always have the car inspected before assuming that it is the head gasket that is causing rough idle.
If your head gasket is leaking, you will have to visit a professional mechanic to repair or replace it.
Low coolant level
Another overlooked Skoda Octavia head gasket problem is the low coolant level. This problem occurs when the head gasket fails between a coolant channel and one of the engine’s combustion chambers. This causes the engine to start consuming a lot of coolant. Besides, it can also make the engine overheat or even blow the head gasket.
To avoid the head gasket from blowing up or even overheating the engine, you should ensure that the coolant level is okay. Apart from inspecting the head gasket and coolant level, you should also check the coolant level sensor. Ensure that the faulty part is fixed.
Loss of power
If the head gasket is failing, your car may start to experience a loss of power. This is because if a failed head gasket allows compressed air or fuel to escape, the compression of the cylinder is reduced. On top of that, the loss of compression leads to a rough-running engine and a notable reduction in engine power.
To fix this problem, you will have to take your car to a professional mechanic for inspection. If the head gasket is failing, you will have to replace it.
Leaking head gasket
The effects of a blown head gasket differ from one car to another, depending on where it has blown from. For instance, if the head gasket blows between the water or oil passage and the outside of the engine, it can be due to a coolant or oil leak. While oil leakage is not very serious, it can lead to serious issues if the problem is not fixed.
This is because the engine can develop serious issues if the coolant level is dropped below normal. Besides, leaking oil can get on the exhaust causing acrid smoke and in some cases fire. Ensure fixing the underlying issues to avoid aggravating the problem.
Faulty exhaust system
A bad head gasket will allow coolant to seep into the engine’s combustion chamber. As a result, it will also find its way into the exhaust system and affects the exhaust system’s performance. And if the problem is not fixed in time, it can damage the exhaust system as well. What’s more, users may notice water leaking from the exhaust pipe or a sweet smell coming from the exhaust.
To fix this problem, the user will have to fix the leakage problem or failing head gasket. And if the exhaust system is damaged, the user will have to replace it to fix the problem.
FAQ
How many years does a head gasket last?
The head gasket should last as long as the life of your car’s engine. But if it’s not properly maintained, then you will be forced to repair it earlier than anticipated. Note that repairing the head gasket can be costly and time-consuming. So, it is better to take good care of the head gasket than to repair it.
Will my car still run with a blown head gasket?
Yes, your car can still run with a blown head gasket. However, this is not recommended as it is not only dangerous, but it can lead to further and costly damage to your engine. The head gasket is one of the most vital parts of an engine and it helps to seal off parts.
How do you stop a head gasket from failing?
Preventing a problem before it happens is always much cheaper and safer than waiting for the problem to happen and trying to fix it. That’s why it’s always better to stop the head gasket from failing instead of repairing or replacing it. Below are some of the things that you can do to stop head gasket failure:
- Always select the right head gasket as specified by OEM
- Clean the deck surfaces
- Look for surface flaws
- Handle heads and gaskets properly
- Use sealer only when needed
- Look for flatness
Is it worth repairing a head gasket?
In most cases, it isn’t worth repairing the head gasket as the issue might re-occur. The best way to fix a blown or failing head gasket is to replace it. What’s more, a head gasket with a leakage should never be repaired but the entire engine should be replaced as a new head gasket will only stop the leak but the bearing damage will still be present.
How do I know if my head gasket is cracked or blocked?
It is very easy to detect whether your head gasket has cracked or not. Simply inspect under the oil filler cap. If the gasket is fine, you will notice that the inside of the oil cap is dry. But if it’s damaged, you will see a milky brownish-yellow substance that looks like a milkshake.
Bottom line
Skoda Octavia is one of the most reliable Skoda models on the market. Nonetheless, this car faces several issues like a blown or failing head gasket. Despite having several problems, the Skoda Octavia still lasts longer and it is cheaper to maintain. All you have to do is to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended scheduled maintenance service and proper care.
