Used Skoda Octavia Hatchback 1998 - 2004 reliability review
It's a modern family car with reasonable safety levels, but it's not very roomy
- Skoda Octavia Hatchback (98 - 04)
What should I look for in a used Skoda Octavia?
Reports from owners have been excellent, as illustrated by very strong results in the JD Power Reliability Index. But, there are still problems to look out for, of course.
Faulty electronic control units can ruin the smooth running of the 110bhp 1.9 TDI engines, resulting in a loss of power and a plunge in fuel economy. Make sure the car shows a consistent service record because if the oil isn't changed at the correct intervals and is allowed to get dirty, it can cause the turbocharger to stick on both turbodiesel units.
If you're buying a 1.8 20v petrol engine, ensure the timing belt is changed by 70,000 miles or you could end up with a bill for a new engine.
Be very careful of high-mileage vRSs. They'll have been driven hard, so check for any evidence of warped brake discs, slipping clutches, ill-changing gearboxes, tired suspension and inaccurate steering.
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