Used Skoda Octavia 2020-present reliability

The Octavia is a large and immensely practical hatchback, so it might have been used for a variety of duties, including family chores and taxi runs. Always check mileage details and the car’s history. Look at the bodywork for signs of scuffs, which could be the result of tight urban car parks, and the wheels for any kerb damage. Check the operation of the seats and that they all fold as they should, and make sure the fabric is in good condition.

Several owners of the previous (third generation) Octavia have reported problems with the dual-clutch DSG automatic gearbox, including electrical glitches and mechanical faults. It's therefore imperative to make sure that any automatic you're considering buying changes through the gears smoothly and without hesitation in both manual and automatic modes.

Owners have reported glitches with the sat-nav system and other minor electrical niggles, so it's worth taking the time to make sure everything works. Other have reported the failure of the water pump, leading to large bills.

In our latest What Car? Reliability Survey, the Octavia finished in a disappointing 35th place out of 37 cars in the family car class.

Reliability rating 78.7%

Sat-nav/infotainment was the most common problem area, accounting for 31% of faults. Overall, 54% of cars went wrong, with owners also reporting problems with the battery, bodywork, interior trim and non-engine electrics. All repairs were done for free, but a third of cars took more than a week to put right.

Skoda as a brand finished in 13th place out of 32 manufacturers.

Used Skoda Octavia reliability: the owners' view

While the Octavia is generally viewed as reliable, several owners reported issues with electronic glitches and infotainment system errors. These problems were often resolved by dealers, but not always swiftly or to the satisfaction of the customer.

Dealer service for the Skoda Octavia received a range of reviews. Although many owners found dealership staff to be professional and communication clear, there were notable complaints about slow response times and delays in parts availability, which extended the duration of repairs. This led to some frustration among owners who expected more prompt and efficient service.

Overall, while the Octavia remains a relatively dependable vehicle, the inconsistencies in dealer service and occasional reliability issues have tempered owner satisfaction.