SEAT Cordoba Common Problems and Solutions
Starting Issues and Rough Idling (All 1.9-Ltr Models)
Problem:
If you haven't driven the car for a few days, you have noticed that you have problems starting it. Once it does start running, idling feels very rough, and there may even be smoke coming from the engine. When the engine is warmed up, all of the problems seem to go away.
Solution:
This will be a leaking diesel filter, which is causing air to get into the fuel tank. You may be able to solve this issue by sealing any cracks on the filter, but in most cases, it will be a matter of replacing the filter with a new one from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Fuel Filter Diesel
Engine Not Turning Over
Problem:
The engine tries to start but won't turn.
Solution:
The Cordoba is fitted with two valves per injector, and the bolts that secure the tandem pump cover have a habit of breaking off. It's a basic manufacturer fault and was the cause of a recall by Seat. That means you may be able to get a replacement pump cover for free from a Seat dealer. If not, then you can order the revised cover directly from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Excessive Braking Distance
Problem:
It is taking a long time and a lot of brake pedal pressure to get the car to stop.
Solution:
This is a general Seat fault that isn't restricted to just the Cordoba. It's due to a poorly designed vacuum pump that is prone to cracks. Those cracks mean your ABS isn't going to work as effectively. Most Seat dealers will replace the vacuum pump for free, but if they won't do the work, then you can find the revised pump easily in our online store.
Difficulty level
Vacuum Pump
Bumpy Driving (All 1.9-Ltr Models)
Problem:
Your ride has become noticeably bumpier, especially on rougher roads.
Solution:
The shock absorbers on the 1.9-ltr models of the Cordoba have to do a lot of work and will tend to wear out faster than you expect. Installing new shocks is a very simple job thanks to a fantastic engine design by Seat. Have new shock absorbers delivered when you order from BreakerYard and easily pop them into place.
Difficulty level
Shock Absorber
Windscreen Wiper Malfunction
Problem:
The windscreen wipers have stopped working, but you can hear that the motor for them is working.
Solution:
If you can hear the motor, then the problem is going to be a worn wiper linkage. This is fairly common on Cordoba, but it's an easy fix. Simply order a new wiper assembly from our parts list and remove the entire wiper system apart from the blades.
Difficulty level
Over Revving Engine
Problem:
The engine is over-revving, and is especially noticeable when you are changing gears. There may also be a drop in engine power.
Solution:
Your clutch assembly is likely on the way out and will need to be replaced. Although this might seem like a big job, there are a lot of tutorials available online, and you can find a low-cost clutch assembly on our parts page for the Cordoba.
Difficulty level
Clutch Kit
Oil leaks
Problem:
You may have noticed that there is oil leaking onto the floor underneath the car. This is usually caused by either the gearbox seal leaking or the selector shaft seal leaking.
Solution:
You will need to correctly identify exactly which seal is leaking and fit a replacement seal to stop the leak.
Difficulty level
Suspension creaking noise
Problem:
As you drive over speed bumps or rough surfaces you may notice a creaking noise coming from the suspension. This is caused by a problem with an anti roll bar bush.
Solution:
If you fit a replacement anti roll bar bush this should resolve the issue. We can help you find this part at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Anti Roll Bar Bush
Lack of power
Problem:
A common part to fail on this vehicle is the MAF (mass air flow) sensor. If this part fails you may be noticing a lack of power at high speeds and/or poor acceleration.
Solution:
You can remove the MAF sensor and clean it with MAF sensor cleaner to fix the problem. In the rare occurrence that this does not work, you will need to fit a replacement MAF sensor. Watch the video below for an idea how to clean the MAF sensor:
Difficulty level
Mass Airflow Sensor
Engine Misfiring
Problem:
There could be two causes of the engine misfiring. If the engine management warning light is on the dashboard, and the engine is misfiring, it is most likely the coil pack causing the problem. If the engine management warning light is not on, it will be the spark plug leads that are faulty. You will be noticing the car has very irregular idling.
Solution:
Whether it is the coil pack or the spark plug leads that are causing the engine to misfire, you will need to fit replacement parts to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Coil Pack