How can I solve my Skoda's DSG problems?

My Skoda Octavia has lost all of its odd numbered gears. Skoda originally said it was the mechatronic unit and agreed to change it for a nominal fee even though the car was almost a year out of warranty....

Timing chain failure on Skoda Octavia 1.2 TSI - what are my options?

I bought a used (2011) Skoda Octavia 1.2 TSI from a dealer in 2012. Two weeks ago, parked normally on (flat) drive in evening. Following morning, engine died before car could be put into gear and driven....

Can I tow my caravan with a 1.6 Octavia?

I'm looking to buy a 2004 Skoda Octavia with a 1.6 petrol engine. As well as being used as a general run around, the car will also be used to make two or three trips towing a Swift Challenger 440/SE caravan....

Buying a used Skoda Octavia - should I take the plunge?

I would reakly like to buy a 2011 1.8tsi Skoda Octavia as the engine felt great. However, I am concerned about the oil consumption issue and costly piston ring fix. The car has c. 29000 miles and would...

Buying a used Skoda Octavia vRS - dsg or manual?

I'm looking to buy a 2-3 year old Skoda Ocatavia vRS estate petrol. Should I get a manual or automatic?

Need a cheap family car with low running costs

My father is looking to replace his 2003 Ford Focus next year. Previously he's always had cheap used cars, but I'm trying to persuade him to get something slightly better this time. However, he's not willing...

How good is a used Octavia?

A couple of friends including a mechanic have recommended buying a used Skoda Octavia to replace my Volkswagen Bora TDI. I have seen many driven by taxi drivers so think that they must be reliable. What...

Can I trust the 1.8TSI Skoda engine?

I have found a very nice 2010 Skoda Octavia L&K DSG with 58,000 miles on the clock. However, the car has the problematic 1.8TSI engine. I've read the bad entries on the Octavia section and the 'oil consumption'...

What's the best estate for £4k?

I'm looking to replace my rather tired 2005 Ford Fiesta 1.4 LX. I want something larger, like an estate, but only have £4000 to spend. I will be covering around 15,000 miles per year and (as a pro drummer)...

Accidently put Redex Stop Smoke in diesel tank - what should I do?

Embarrassingly, while distracted, I put some Redex Stop Smoke in the diesel tank rather than in with the oil! I expected the car to stop working quite quickly, but I only had a engine management light...