Skoda Known Faults

Czech Republic

Known Faults

Models

Fabia

1999–present

4 faults

Octavia

1996–present

16 faults

Most Reported Faults

Glow Plug Failure

Moderate

2007-201480,000–150,000 miles£100–£300

Glow plug failure on the 1.4 TDI Fabia causes white smoke and hard cold starting. The engine's small combustion chamber is particularly reliant on glow plugs in cold UK winters.

Timing Belt Failure

Critical

2007-20141–60,000 miles£280–£500

The 1.4 TDI Fabia has a timing belt with a 60,000-mile or 4-year interval. Belt failure on this interference engine is catastrophic — bent valves and destroyed pistons are the result.

DPF Blockage

Moderate

2007-201430,000–70,000 miles£150–£800

The small 1.4 TDI Fabia is often used for city commuting — the exact use case that blocks DPFs. The engine's small displacement means low exhaust temperatures even at motorway speeds.

EGR Valve Failure

Moderate

2007-201440,000–90,000 miles£80–£350

EGR valve carbon build-up on the 1.4 TDI Fabia restricts airflow and causes power loss. The small engine is particularly sensitive to EGR restriction.

Shock Absorber Oil Leak and Failure

Moderate

2004-201370,000–120,000 miles£200–£400

Shock absorbers lose their damping efficiency over time, and eventually blow their seals, leaking hydraulic fluid.