Skoda Fabia Common Problems and Solutions
Tailgate Won't Close
Problem:
You cannot close the tailgate properly.
Solution:
This is caused by a faulty tailgate locking mechanism. We always keep these in stock, and you can easily fit a working locking mechanism yourself.
Difficulty level
Tailgate Lock Mechanism
Seat Won't Rise Up
Problem:
The seat is too low, and the handle that lifts it no longer functions.
Solution:
Try adjusting the seat when you're not sitting on it. If that doesn't work, check underneath the seat for any issues with the seat rails. They are probably misaligned, and you'll need to order a replacement from the BreakerYard drop-down list of parts for the Fabia.
Difficulty level
Fuel Gauge Drops to Zero
Problem:
Even when you've just filled the fuel tank, the gauge drops to zero.
Solution:
This might simply be a software update, which you can have carried out at any Skoda dealer. Sometimes, it is caused by a faulty fuel gauge sensor, which we always keep in stock and can deliver directly to you when you order the replacement.
Difficulty level
Fuel level sensor
Electric Window Malfunction
Problem:
Your electric windows are not working.
Solution:
This is almost always caused by a wiring break in the pillar. You will need to remove the panel and replace or repair any broken wires, which you can order from our store.
Difficulty level
Water From Dashboard
Problem:
Water is visible coming from several outlets on the dashboard.
Solution:
This issue is caused by the rear washer pipe and must be fixed immediately to avoid risking your car's electrics. Replace the split pipe with a new one from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Excess Bouncing While Driving
Problem:
You can feel every bump on the road while driving.
Solution:
The Fabia has a very stiff suspension system, and it's known to fail quite often. Try pushing down on the bonnet and ensure that the car returns to its initial position after a few bounces. If it doesn't, you have a worn-out suspension, and the only solution is to browse our available parts for a replacement.
Difficulty level
Suspension Complete System
Rear door seals leaking
Problem:
The rear door seals are prone to leaking on the Fabia. When these seals leak, they cause the rear footwells to become wet. If you've noticed damp carpets in the rear footwells, this is the issue.
Solution:
You will need to remove the rear door panel and apply some sealant to stop the leak. Watch the video below to see how to fix this yourself:
Difficulty level
Windscreen washer pump leak
Problem:
If you have noticed a water leak in front of the passenger side front wheel, it is caused by a leaking windscreen washer pump.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement windscreen washer pump to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Windscreen Washer Pump
Engine management warning light
Problem:
The water temperature sensor often fails on this vehicle. When it does, the engine management warning light will light up on the dashboard. This sensor is the most frequent cause of this warning light.
Solution:
You will need to replace the water temperature sensor to resolve this issue.
Difficulty level
Steering warning light
Problem:
If the steering warning light appears on the dashboard, it is usually caused by a fault with the steering sensor.
Solution:
Replacing the steering sensor will resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Engine cutting out
Problem:
The fuel pump is prone to failing on the Fabia. If your engine cuts out in any of the following situations: when it is cold, warm, or idling, this could be be the cause.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement fuel pump to fix the issue. We can assist you in finding an affordable replacement fuel pump.
Difficulty level
Whining Noise
Problem:
You can hear a whining noise coming from the front of the car while driving. The sound stops when you press down the clutch.
Solution:
This could indicate a drive shaft fault, which means browsing our parts list and ordering a replacement. However, in some cases, it might simply be that the rubber boots on your CV joints have worn out, and you can order those from us as well.
Difficulty level
Driveshaft
Creaking From Dashboard
Problem:
You can hear a creak or a rattle coming from the dashboard while driving.
Solution:
The trim parts on the Fabia can come loose very easily. You'll need to secure them into place using plastic glue.
Difficulty level
Power Loss
Problem:
You encounter sudden power loss during acceleration, and the heater control lamp may light up.
Solution:
This is usually a straightforward case of ordering a new accelerator pedal position sensor and replacing the faulty one. In some instances, the pedal assembly itself might be at fault, but this is quite uncommon.
Difficulty level
Creaking From Front of Car
Problem:
A creaking noise can be heard coming from the front suspension, especially when driving over uneven surfaces or around bends.
Solution:
You might have the wrong version of the front shock absorber upper brackets installed. You'll need to remove them, find the proper replacement in our store, and fit the more appropriate ones.
Difficulty level
Shock Absorber
Rear Wiper Not Working
Problem:
The rear window wiper is not functioning properly, and there is a loud noise coming from it.
Solution:
This is simply a fault with the rear wiper motor, which is known to burn out quite quickly on later models of the Fabia. You can purchase one from our parts page and replace it very easily.
Difficulty level
Wiper Motor
Fuel Smell In Car
Problem:
You can smell fuel inside the car, and fuel is left on the floor while driving.
Solution:
The fuel filter on Fabias manufactured between April 2011 and October 2014 has a faulty design, which is prone to cracking around the inlet connection. This can gradually start to affect the car's handling. You can order the correct type of fuel filter from us and easily replace the defective one.
Difficulty level
Fuel Filter Housing
Limp Mode
Problem:
The car has entered limp mode.
Solution:
There are many reasons a Fabia might go into limp mode. Your best option is to have your car scanned and check the error codes. Sometimes, there's nothing wrong with the car at all, but it could also be something simple like low oil levels. In some cases, it could be something more serious, such as a faulty gearbox. Once you know the error codes, you'll know if you need to order a replacement gearbox from us.
Difficulty level
Gearbox ECU