Skoda Octavia Common Problems and Solutions
Driveshaft Vibration
Problem:
The driveshaft is shaking and vibrating excessively when you reach between 1900 and 2900 rpm.
Solution:
Your driveshaft has reached the end of its life. We always have driveshafts for the Octavia in stock, and our fast delivery means you can replace your faulty one promptly. It's a significant job, but there are many guides online that can show you how to do it.
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Driveshaft
Losing Power At High Speed
Problem:
When travelling at high speeds, such as during overtaking, the car begins to lose power.
Solution:
This could be a damaged turbocharger, which is a difficult repair to carry out yourself. Before attempting that, try checking the forced induction pressure sensor. If it has become damaged or broken, then ordering a replacement from our parts list and fitting it is much simpler than fiddling with the turbocharger unit.
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Central Locking Failure
Problem:
Not all doors will lock when using the central locking function. You might also find that the wing mirrors will not fold in.
Solution:
In most cases, this will be a simple blown fuse. Check your fuses and order replacements from us as needed. If the fuses are fine, then there is a faulty wiring connection somewhere. That will mean inspecting each wire and checking for damage.
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Fuses Multipack
Windows Come Down Themselves
Problem:
Your car windows will lower automatically overnight.
Solution:
Your car battery or alternator is likely the problem. When the battery charge is low, the windows on the Octavia may often roll down. Ensure that your battery still holds a good charge. If it doesn't, you might need to order a replacement from our shop. If your battery appears fine, then the issue could be your alternator, which we can supply a replacement for.
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Wet Floor in Boot
Problem:
Although there is no water accumulation in the boot, it feels damp to touch. This can also lead to a musty odour developing.
Solution:
The rear washer system is known to have leak problems on the Octavia. Check your washer system for any loose connections or holes. In rare cases, you will need to replace parts of or the entire rear washer system, which we have in stock and can deliver.
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Clunky Gear Changes (All Automatic Models)
Problem:
Shifting gears is becoming increasingly difficult and feels 'clunky'.
Solution:
The automatic gearbox on the Octavia is less durable than on other models and can wear out quite quickly. That's usually what causes the problem, although sometimes there is a fault with the Mechatronics control system. Try replacing the gearbox first, which you can order from us. If that doesn't fix the issue, then it's the Mechatronics control system, and you'll need a specialist to repair it.
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Gearbox Transmission Automatic
Lack of power/stalling
Problem:
The throttle body is prone to becoming clogged with carbon build-up. This issue results in reduced acceleration and can cause the car to stall at junctions, etc. You may also notice it coughs and splutters slightly when idling.
Solution:
You will need to remove the throttle body and clean it with a toothbrush and some throttle body cleaner. This will resolve the issue. Watch the video below to see how this is done.
Difficulty level
Throttle Body
Water leak in passenger front footwell
Problem:
The plenum chamber can become blocked with leaves and debris, leading to water leaking into the front passenger footwell. It is situated next to the window wiper mechanism beneath the windscreen.
Solution:
Unblocking the holes in the plenum chamber will enable the water to drain through them instead of leaking into the front passenger footwell.
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EGR valve blocked
Problem:
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve can become blocked with carbon deposits, leading to hesitation and rough engine idling. You will particularly notice a lack of acceleration.
Solution:
You can remove the EGR valve and clean it using a toothbrush and some carb cleaner. This should resolve the issue. Watch the video below to see how it’s done:
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EGR Valve
DPF warning light
Problem:
If the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light appears on the dashboard, it is likely due to the DPF becoming blocked. Cars fitted with the DPF are not particularly well-suited for short journeys, such as around town. If used only in this way, the DPF can unfortunately become clogged.
Solution:
You can take your car onto an open road and drive at around 2500 rpm in fourth gear for 5-10 miles, which allows the DPF to heat up sufficiently to burn off those unwanted particles. This should turn off the DPF warning light on the dashboard. If the light remains on, it could indicate a faulty DPF sensor, or you might need to manually remove and clean the DPF.
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Wing mirror indicator failure
Problem:
The wing mirror indicators tend to fail because water leaks into the LED lights.
Solution:
You will need to replace the wing mirror indicators to resolve this issue. Search for your Skoda Octavia replacement wing mirror indicators.
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Reverse Gear Not Available
Problem:
You receive the error message 'Reverse Not Available' each time you start the car.
Solution:
It's quite likely that metallic particles have accumulated on the magnetic sensors inside the gearbox. This can cause confusing signals to be sent to your car's computer system. You should attempt to clean the gearbox first, but in many cases, a replacement from our store will be necessary.
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Child Lock Disengages
Problem:
The child lock on the rear doors disengages, allowing the doors to be opened from the inside.
Solution:
If your car is still under warranty, Skoda will replace the entire locking mechanism free of charge. If not, it is best to order a replacement locking mechanism from our store and replace the rear locks yourself.
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Squealing Noise From Rear Wheel
Problem:
You can hear a loud squealing noise coming from your rear wheel while driving.
Solution:
If your Octavia was manufactured in August 2017, there's a strong chance that the rear wheel bearing is faulty and has shattered. You will need to replace the entire housing, which we always keep in stock.
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Leaking Side Windows
Problem:
Water leaks through the side windows when it's raining or when going through a car wash.
Solution:
This is down to a lack of primer being used in the manufacturing process. The only way to resolve the issue is to replace the side windows and ensure that they are sealed correctly. You can find all of the windows in the Octavia in our parts list.
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