If you are considering buying a used Skoda Superb, there are several major reliability issues worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 13 known faults for this model, 9 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.
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Generation 1 of 32 known faults · 2 owner reports · 2 good notes
Skoda Superb Mk1 (2002 to 2008) problems
ElectricalHigh severity📝 Editorial
Blocked ventilation plenum chamber drains can lead to water ingress into the cabin, causing electrical and electronic problems. In severe cases, water can perforate the brake servo seam, leading to a hard brake pedal and potential engine hydraulic lock if water is sucked into the engine.
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial
The 2.0 PD TDI engine with balancer shafts suffers from a critical oil pump drive failure. Early versions used a chain drive that could snap, while later versions used a hexagonal shaft that can round off due to inadequate engagement depth and lack of concentricity. This leads to total loss of oil pressure and catastrophic engine and turbo failure.
Rough guide
£3000-9000
Typical symptoms
Sudden loss of oil pressure warning light
Loud metallic knocking from engine
Engine seizing
Turbocharger failure
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI PD (with balancer shafts)
Typical mileage:
50000-100000 miles
1 more owner report backs this up
October 2019A 2.0 TDI PD engine experienced oil pump drive failure due to an inadequately engaged hexagonal bar, a manufacturing defect.
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What owners report on the Mk1
2 single reports, unconfirmed
One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.
Bodywork · February 2017The offside rear door of a 2007 Skoda Superb became impossible to open from either inside or outside.
Engine · March 2013A 2008 1.9 TDI Superb at 99,000 miles required a new turbocharger, pressure and G31 sensors, and a steering rack repair.
What owners like about the Mk1
2 notes
The 2.5 TDI V6 automatic model was recognised as Towcar of the Year in 2002.
The car achieved a four-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating in January 2003.
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Engine/EmissionsMedium severity📝 Editorial
EGR valve failure and DPF blockage following the 'Dieselgate' emissions software fix
Rough guide
£400-900
Typical symptoms
engine management light
flashing glow plug light
limp mode
frequent DPF regenerations
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI (EA189)
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
3 more owner reports back this up
May 2019The EGR valve of a 2013 Skoda Superb Estate 2.0 TDI 4x4 became blocked within two years of a NOx emissions software update.
November 2018The EGR valve on a 2012 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 140 failed at 61,000 miles, 27 months after a NOx emissions update.
October 2017A November 2011 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI at 95,000 miles had an EGR failure, followed by a turbo boost sensor fault and a wiring problem.
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 3 owner reports, 2015 to 2016
The 1.8 TSI CDAA engine variant is known for excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings. This can lead to significant running costs and potential engine damage if oil levels are not constantly monitored. VWG has historically considered 1,000 miles per litre as 'normal'.
Rough guide
£3500-4500
Typical symptoms
Frequent need to top up engine oil
Blue smoke from exhaust (especially on start-up or acceleration)
Reduced engine performance
Oil warning light illuminating
Affected vehicles
Engines:
1.8 TSI (CDAA engine code)
Typical mileage:
30000-75000 miles
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ElectricalMedium severity💬 5 owner reports, 2012 to 2013
The Columbus infotainment and satellite navigation system is prone to failure, often just after the 3-year warranty expires. Problems include the screen going blank, the system crashing, or the hard disk drive failing. Skoda often refuses full warranty claims for these failures.
Rough guide
£700-2700
Typical symptoms
Satnav screen goes blank or freezes
System crashes or reboots repeatedly
Loss of radio, CD, or other media functions
Erroneous navigation instructions
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All variants with Columbus system
Typical mileage:
30000-80000 miles
2 more owner reports back this up
December 2018The Columbus media centre in an April 2015 Skoda Superb froze and became unusable, leading to the owner rejecting the car.
December 2014The Columbus satnav screen on an 86,000 mile 2010 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI Elegance went completely blank, costing £1,473.16 to replace.
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2014 to 2015
The timing chain on the 1.8 TSI engine is prone to stretching, which can lead to incorrect valve timing and catastrophic engine damage. This issue was linked to manufacturing tolerances in the timing chain components.
Rough guide
£800-3000+
Typical symptoms
Loud rattling noise from the engine on cold start (lasting a few seconds)
Engine management light illuminated
Rough idling or misfires
Loss of engine power
Affected vehicles
Engines:
1.8 TSI
Typical mileage:
35000-50000 miles
1 more owner report backs this up
September 2014Skoda paid the entire cost to replace a stretched timing chain on a 2010 Superb 1.8 TSI with 49,000 miles.
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ElectricalHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2018
The ABS/ESP control module can fail prematurely, often just outside the 3-year warranty period. This is a known manufacturing defect and a safety issue, leading to multiple warning lights and requiring expensive replacement.
Rough guide
£1000-1500
Typical symptoms
ABS, ESP, and other warning lights illuminated simultaneously on the dashboard
Loss of ABS and ESP functionality
Brake pedal feeling unusual
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All variants
Typical mileage:
30000-60000 miles
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What owners report on the Mk2
21 single reports, unconfirmed
One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.
Engine · April 2019A 2011 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 170 at 100,000 miles entered limp home mode after the glow plug light illuminated.
Bodywork · February 2019The rear door locks on a 2012 Skoda Superb failed to secure, with attempts to lubricate the mechanism proving unsuccessful.
Gearbox and clutch · September 2018A 2012 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI with a 7-speed DQ200 DSG developed a slight judder when shifting from first to second gear at 49,529 miles.
Gearbox and clutch · February 2018A 2009 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI with a 7-speed DQ200 twin dry clutch DSG gearbox experienced a loss of drive.
Fuel system · January 2018Following a NOx emissions fix, a Skoda Superb 1.6 TDI experienced a drop in motorway fuel economy from 60mpg to 55mpg.
Gearbox and clutch · July 2017A 2012 Skoda Superb 1.6 TDI suffered repeated failures of the clutch release bearing.
Gearbox and clutch · October 2016The clutch and dual mass flywheel of a 2013 Skoda Superb failed at 50,000 miles and were replaced free of charge.
Electrics · September 2016A 2011 Skoda Superb 1.6 TDI at 41,000 miles experienced intermittent flashing of the glowplug warning light, with no cause found by roadside assistance or the main dealer.
Gearbox and clutch · July 2016A 2011 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI with a 7-speed dry clutch DSG developed a mechatronics leak requiring a new unit at £496.
Suspension and steering · May 2016A 2012 Skoda Superb, fitted with Avon ZZ5 tyres, developed uneven tread wear on the rear, leading to noticeable noise at speed.
Engine · May 2015The EGR valves on a Skoda Superb diesel failed twice, at 34,000 miles and 67,000 miles.
Gearbox and clutch · September 2014A 45,000 mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI DSG had its transmission fluid changed under a technical service bulletin, resolving hesitation and noises.
Bodywork · April 2014A new Skoda Superb delivered in January 2014 had water ingress in the nearside headlight and windows opening overnight.
Gearbox and clutch · March 2014A 45,000 mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI DSG experienced hesitation on take-off, rusted brake discs, and a leaking panoramic roof.
Engine · March 2014A Skoda Superb 2.0 TSI estate consumed 0.5 litres of engine oil over a distance of 2,800 miles.
Suspension and steering · October 2013A Superb 2.0 TDI CR140 SE plus only achieved 12,500 miles from its 225/45 R17 tyres, and its rims were prone to kerb damage.
Electrics · April 2013A high-mileage 2010 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI DSG experienced a window regulator failure, temperamental air blower motor, and a failed windscreen wiper motor.
Electrics · September 2012A 2009 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI 7-speed DSG had issues including a fuel gauge mis-reading, intermittent parking aid screen, and temporary power steering loss.
Engine · August 2012A 2010 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 170 DSG Elegance Estate had an air blower failure, wheel bearing issue, and a stuffed EGR valve, all fixed under warranty.
Interior · March 2011A Skoda Superb experienced various operational issues with its climate control system, requiring attention.
Brakes · February 2011The hillholder brake system on a Skoda Superb repeatedly failed, causing concern for the driver.
What owners like about the Mk2
6 notes
The car achieved a 5-star adult protection, 4-star child protection, and 2-star pedestrian protection Euro NCAP rating.
The Superb 2.0 170bhp 4x4 model won its category in the Towcar Awards 2009, praised for towing ability and practicality.
From 2012, the factory-fitted satellite navigation system is capable of finding 7-digit UK postcodes.
Superb models equipped with the EA189 1.6 TDI engine do not feature dual mass flywheels.
From 2012, the factory-fitted satellite navigation system is capable of finding seven-digit UK postcodes.
The Superb Estate received the top Caravan Club Towcar of the Year award in 2014, highlighting its towing capability.
Generation 3 of 34 known faults · 18 owner reports · 9 good notes
Skoda Superb Mk3 (2015 to 2024) problems
Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2017 to 2018
The DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG gearbox, particularly with the 1.4 TSI engine, can develop a metallic squeal when changing from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd gear. This indicates premature wear of the dual clutch pack, requiring replacement.
Rough guide
£1000-2000
Typical symptoms
Metallic squealing noise during gear changes (1st to 2nd, 2nd to 3rd)
Juddering or hesitation when moving off
Flashing gear indicator or spanner light
Loss of drive
Affected vehicles
Engines:
1.4 TSI (DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG)
Typical mileage:
15000-40000 miles
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ElectricalMedium severity💬 2 owner reports, 2017 to 2019
The infotainment screen can stop working, reboot repeatedly, or freeze, rendering the radio, navigation, and reverse camera unusable. This issue echoes problems seen in the previous generation's Columbus system.
Rough guide
£500-1500
Typical symptoms
Infotainment screen goes blank or freezes
System reboots continuously, showing 'Skoda navigation' message
Loss of radio, navigation, and reverse camera functionality
Unresponsive to button presses
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All variants with infotainment screen
Typical mileage:
10000-50000 miles
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Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 3 owner reports, 2017 to 2018
Manual transmissions in the Superb Mk3, particularly with 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI engines, have reported issues with poor gearchange quality, specifically crashing between 2nd and 3rd gears and a lack of precision. In some cases, this has led to transmission failure.
Rough guide
£1500-3000
Typical symptoms
Gears crashing or grinding when shifting between 2nd and 3rd
Lack of precision or stiffness in gear selection
Difficulty engaging gears
Transmission failure
Affected vehicles
Engines:
Manual transmissions (1.4 TSI, 2.0 TDI)
Typical mileage:
5000-20000 miles
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The 1.5 TSI engine has reported ongoing issues with no clear resolution from Skoda. Specific details of the faults are not provided, but the recurring mention suggests a persistent problem.
Rough guide
£500-1500+
Typical symptoms
Unspecified engine running issues
Engine management light
Reduced performance
Rough idling
Affected vehicles
Engines:
1.5 TSI
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
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What owners report on the Mk3
18 single reports, unconfirmed
One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.
Suspension and steering · December 2020A 2017 Superb Sportline 280 developed a rattle from the driver's side front suspension that dealers failed to fix.
Electrics · December 2019A 2018 Skoda Superb SEL Executive lost its pre-set radio stations when the engine was switched off.
Bodywork · October 2019A 2018 Skoda Superb developed persistent rattling noises originating from inside both front doors.
Bodywork · October 2019A 2019 Skoda Superb experienced an annoying rattling sound emanating from its sunroof assembly.
Fuel system · April 2019A March 2016 Skoda Superb 280 repeatedly leaked fuel from the tank area, occurring three times.
Suspension and steering · February 2019A 2016 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI L&K estate at 17,450 miles experienced a failed nearside rear wheel bearing, covered by warranty.
Suspension and steering · February 2019A 2016 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI estate at 17,450 miles had a failed nearside rear wheel bearing, covered by warranty.
Brakes · December 2018A 2016 Skoda Superb at 20,000 miles had pitted and scored rear brake discs.
Brakes · November 2018A 2016 Skoda Superb TDI 190 estate at 27,000 miles had corroded rear brake discs and pads, costing £283 to replace.
Brakes · August 2018A 2016 Skoda Superb's electromechanical parking brake intermittently stuck, leading to excessive wear on rear discs and pads.
Engine · March 2018A 2017 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI intermittently idled at 1000 rpm with the fan on, and later increased speed when the accelerator was released.
Electrics · November 2017A January 2017 Skoda Superb SE experienced intermittent alarm activation, CD system locking up, and erroneous SatNav instructions.
Electrics · November 2017A 2017 Skoda Superb Executive estate at 7,000 miles displayed a 'Front Assist not Available' warning, needing radar recalibration.
Electrics · November 2017A new Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 190 DSG experienced intermittent malfunctions with its BLIS and rear Cross Traffic Alert systems.
Suspension and steering · September 2017The standard dampers on a new Skoda Superb 190 TDI estate manual provided poor rebound control on uneven roads.
Electrics · August 2016The aux-in socket from an iPod in an April 2016 Skoda Superb intermittently lost connection while playing music.
Electrics · June 2016A used 2015 Superb L&K experienced failure of the seat and mirror electrics due to a disconnected wiring loom in the driver's door.
Gearbox and clutch · March 2016A new Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI estate with 750 miles struggled to engage reverse gear, requiring dealer intervention.
What owners like about the Mk3
9 notes
September 2019A 2018 Skoda Superb 1.4 TSI automatic is fitted with the 6-speed DQ250 wet clutch DSG gearbox.
The car offers exceptional comfort, making it an excellent choice for extended journeys and long-distance travel.
The interior provides extensive space, with rear legroom comparable to a Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
The spacious boot features a wide aperture and straight sides, simplifying the process of maximising storage capacity.
The interior boasts a high-quality finish, giving the Superb a premium feel.
The car is a handsome and upmarket hatchback offering excellent value compared to rivals.
The car provides even more legroom and boot space than previous models.
The car is equipped with a selection of highly efficient engines, contributing to good fuel economy.
The car achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2015, with strong scores across all categories.
Skoda Superb service intervals: cambelt, chain and gearbox oil
An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used Superb. These are the figures UK specialists work to.
Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
1.6 TDI, 2.0 TDI, EA189, EA288
60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first
Although VAG UK officially dropped the time-based 5-year cambelt interval in 2023 (shifting to a mileage-only limit), independent specialists strongly advise continuing to replace the belt and water pump every 5 years or 60,000 miles to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
DSG Oil and Filter
DQ250, 6-SPEED
40,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first
The 6-speed wet-clutch DSG/S-tronic has a strict service interval of 40,000 miles. Some specialists recommend 30,000 miles for tuned or heavily used vehicles.
Haldex AWD Oil
4MOTION, 4X4
30,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first
Official interval is 30,000 miles or 3 years. Specialists highly recommend 20,000 miles and explicitly cleaning the pump strainer/gauze to prevent pump failure.
Timing chainChain
1.2 TSI, 1.4 TSI, EA111
No fixed replacement interval
Timing chain stretches and tensioners fail. No fixed replacement interval, but listen for a harsh metallic rattle on cold start for 2-3 seconds. Often requires replacement at 40k-80k miles.
Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.
Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: September 2026
Skoda Superb buying questions
Is a used Skoda Superb reliable?
The Skoda Superb has 13 known faults in our database across 3 generations, 9 of them rated high severity. The most serious are engine (the 1.8 TSI CDAA engine variant is known for excessive oil consumption due to faulty) and gearbox (manual transmissions in the Superb Mk3, particularly with 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI engines). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.
What are the most common Skoda Superb problems?
Three stand out. Engine: the 1.8 TSI CDAA engine variant is known for excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings (typically 30000 to 75000 miles). Gearbox: manual transmissions in the Superb Mk3, particularly with 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI engines (typically 5000 to 20000 miles). Engine: the timing chain on the 1.8 TSI engine is prone to stretching (typically 35000 to 50000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.
Which Skoda Superb years should I avoid?
No Skoda Superb year is a write-off, but the Mk2 (2008 to 2015) carries the most serious faults: engine, electrics and gearbox. The Mk1 (2002 to 2008) and Mk3 (2015 to 2024) have high-severity faults on record too. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.
What should I check when viewing a used Skoda Superb?
Ask the seller about the engine and gearbox faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for frequent need to top up engine oil, gears crashing or grinding when shifting between 2nd and 3rd and loud rattling noise from the engine on cold start (lasting a few seconds). Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 13 known faults before you travel. Check a Skoda Superb advert →
What is the real MPG of a Skoda Superb?
Owners report 47.0 mpg on average across the Skoda Superb engines with data, about 93% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 1,544 owner submissions. Skoda Superb Real MPG by engine →
If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Skoda Superb owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.
Knowing what a Skoda Superb goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.