Skoda Octavia 4. Generation 2.0 TDI, 115 PS, 5-speed manual (2020–2024)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Skoda Octavia IV (since 2020): known problems and buying guide

  A practical family car, but check open recalls, the infotainment software and the front suspension 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. Read the infotainment version and fault memory with a scanner; test every screen, CarPlay, Front Assist and Travel Assist. Bad result: old software, stored faults, reboots or systems that stay off.
2. Check springs and dampers on a lift; look for transport blocks under the front gaiters. Bad result: cracks, leaks, play or blocks still fitted.
3. Test the 12 V battery after the car sleeps and measure the quiescent current. Bad result: a low battery or a drain.
4. Check steering recall 48LS by VIN. Bad result: an open campaign.
5. Check engine cover recall 10H6 on 2020-2022 cars. Bad result: an open campaign and the cover still fitted.
6. Ask about camera calibration after any windscreen change. Bad result: Front Assist or Travel Assist inactive.

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