What engine to go for in Skoda Octavia Combi?

Hello,

I am thinking of changing to a 1.8 petrol Skoda Octavia Combi automatic, but have heard that this engine has problems. Have you heard this? If so, what engine would you recommend?

Thank you

Arthur McFaul (Dunshaughlin)

May 2010 Filed under: reliability

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Expert answer

Hi Arthur,

I assume you mean a second-hand Skoda Octavia, of the 1998 - 2005 generation. The problem reported relates only to the 20-valve 1.8-litre petrol engine. Its timing belt is prone to snapping if it isn't changed on time and this can wreck the engine. However, if a car has a full service history, including timing belt changes, there should be no reason to worry about it.

We'd rather have the diesel engine, but I don't believe it will be easy to find in Ireland on conjunction with an automatic gearbox.

If you need to know anything else please just pop a comment in the box below this answer.

Thanks

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser