Skoda Kodiaq 1. Generation RS TDI, 240 PS, 7-speed dual-clutch, all-wheel drive (2018–2020)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Skoda Kodiaq (2016-2024): known problems and buying guide

  Average reliability with several recalls. Check the steering bolt and airbag campaigns by VIN and test the DSG before you buy.

• Engine guide VW 2.0 TDI (EA288) diesel: problems, costs and what to check

  Coolant leaks, EGR and AdBlue faults are the main risks. Buy with a cold-start check, a coolant pressure test and a full scan.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. On a DSG car, read the fault memory with a scanner and drive from cold. Bad result: jerks when pulling away or shifting, or a fault code. Needs a scanner.
2. Check the VIN for open recall campaigns, especially the steering bolt (KBA 17091R) and the 2023 airbag campaign (012656). Bad result: any open campaign.
3. On a 4x4, ask for the Haldex oil change record. Bad result: no record, or front wheels that spin when pulling away.
4. Check the front and rear brake discs and pads, wheels off or with a torch. Bad result: worn discs or pads, so a brake job is due soon.
5. Open and close the tailgate with the key, the button and the switch, several times. Bad result: it stops halfway, opens on its own or does not close.
6. Press the start button several times, cold and warm. Bad result: a reluctant start or a button that needs several presses.
7. Test the screen, Bluetooth and phone pairing on a full drive. Bad result: a freeze, a restart or a phone that will not pair.
8. Drive over bumps and listen to the doors and trim. Bad result: creaks or rattles, or door handles that squeak.
9. Check the door edge protectors on the sills. Bad result: a protector knocked off or not deployed.
10. Ask the seller for the service book with DSG and Haldex oil records. Bad result: no records.

From the engine guide

1. Turbo (needs a scanner). Read boost faults and check the vanes. Bad: power loss, whistle or smoke.
2. DPF (needs a scanner). Read soot and ash loading. Bad: frequent regeneration or high oil level.
3. Intake manifold (pressure test). Pressure-test the cooling system. Bad: coolant loss with no puddle, worse under load.
4. EGR cooler (pressure test). Cap the cooler hoses and repeat the test. Bad: it holds only with the cooler bypassed.
5. AdBlue and NOx (needs a scanner). Read NOx sensor and dosing faults. Bad: an emissions warning, a restart countdown or crystallised AdBlue.
6. Water pump and heater. Start cold; heater must blow hot. Bad: weak heat, wandering gauge, dried coolant.
7. Oil pump drive (needs a scanner). Listen for a rattle at idle and check for oil-pressure codes. Bad: a red oil-pressure warning.
8. Belt and pump invoices. Ask for dated belt, pump and thermostat invoices. No record means budget for a belt job.
9. Recall check. Enter the VIN in the official recall check. Bad: an open 23Z7 campaign on a T6.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions