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6 October 2025 (updated) Skoda Octavia: problems with door lock, gearbox malfunctions, and other faults
Is your Skoda causing you grief? This brief guide will help you to identify the most common Skoda Octavia problems and learn how to solve them.
Skoda Octavia: common problems
- Gearbox problems
The DSG automatic gearbox is used in a variety of popular models from car brands including Skoda, Volkswagen, Audi, and SEAT. It is unfortunately not known for its reliability and tends to be more prone to failure than other types. Faults can occur in the gearbox assembly and mechatronic system, causing rough shifting, slipping gears, delayed engagement, and a clunking or juddering sensation.
If your Skoda has this particular type of transmission, it is recommended that you get it checked by a professional as faults can be quite complex. The above symptoms can also appear in manual transmissions and may actually be the result of common clutch problems. You should always get a proper diagnosis before replacing parts.
To avoid preventable wear and faults, you should try to keep on top of maintaining automatic transmission fluid levels and always make sure to fill new gearbox oil in your Skoda Octavia on time.
- A bad dual mass flywheel
This component has been known to cause hassle across different models. Keep an eye out for signs of dual mass flywheel failure, such as gear shifting problems, a slipping clutch, excessive engine vibrations, rattling or banging sounds, and a hard clutch pedal.
- Throttle body problems
Contaminants, such as sludge, dirt and debris, can accumulate around the vehicle’s throttle body, eventually clogging it up and preventing air from flowing into the combustion chambers. This ultimately leads to poor acceleration, significantly reduced power, and a poor fuel economy.
Another common cause of throttle body failure is vacuum leaks. As a result, an unregulated amount of air can enter the engine, not corresponding to the position of the component.
You can find a compatible replacement at a fair price by comparing offers for spare parts for the Skoda Octavia.
- Turbo faults
Certain versions of this model are faced with more turbocharger faults as not all turbos are durably designed. If your turbo is worn or damaged, you will likely notice a loss of power, especially during acceleration, and your car may go into limp mode. It’s best to get your car fixed as soon as possible to prevent further issues.
- EGR valve problems
Faults frequently occur when the Skoda Octavia’s EGR valve becomes over contaminated with carbon deposits. The component is responsible for directing the flow of exhaust gases back into the engine to reduce harmful emissions.
If the valve is stuck open, gases will continuously circulate through the engine without regulation, potentially causing a lean air-to fuel mixture, which can result in misfires, increased fuel consumption, rough idling, and poor performance.
If it gets jammed shut due to a buildup of deposits, the temperature in the combustion chambers may increase, causing knocking or pinging sounds. These sounds are typically more prominent during acceleration or when driving under heavy loads. You may also find that the engine is losing power or is sluggish due to a lack of gas. Cleaning the valve may be enough to fix this, however, in some cases, a replacement is necessary.
- Door lock problems
For example, models made between 2014 and 2020 have been known to experience problems with the child lock system. Some drivers report that the child lock was disengaged while driving without them knowing, allowing the car passengers in the back seats to open the doors from the inside.
You may also encounter issues with the Skoda Octavia central locking system. The key fob is usually the culprit when the doors are not locking or unlocking remotely.
- Airbag faults
A number of vehicles manufactured between 8 January and 28 February 2018 were affected by a fault that caused the airbag to inflate too slowly in response to collisions. This issue requires a complete replacement of the airbag unit, which can be carried out by an official dealer.
Skoda also had to recall thousands of vehicles built between 2012 and 2017, including Octavia III models, due to concerns over a gas generator fault in the airbag unit, which can cause it to deploy randomly on the driver’s side. This posed a serious safety risk. Check with a local dealer to find out whether your vehicle was affected by any past recalls and to make sure the issue has been resolved.
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