Popular Czech-built large SUV known for practicality, fuel economy, and competitive pricing. The 2.0 TDI EA288 engine is generally reliable, but the DQ500 7-speed DSG transmission has known mechatronic and clutch issues appearing after 40,000-80,000 km. Main concerns: DSG gearbox failures, AdBlue system sensor faults, DPF blockage from short trips, EGR valve wear around 80,000-120,000 km, and electric parking brake actuator failures. Infotainment system freezing is common but usually fixable with software updates. Timing belt replacement interval is now mileage-based at 210,000 km.
DQ500 DSG has known mechatronic unit and clutch issues · more· less
The 7-speed DSG automatic transmission (DQ500) fitted to the Kodiaq 2.0 TDI has documented reliability issues. Common symptoms include juddering when starting, erratic gear shifts, emergency mode activation, and delayed engagement. Problems typically appear in two phases: software-related issues after 20,000-40,000 km (often resolvable with software updates or fluid changes) and mechanical failures after 80,000-120,000 km requiring hardware replacement. The mechatronic unit is the most common failure point - a faulty sensor or control unit triggers emergency mode where only even gears function (2, 4, 6). Replacement costs €1,200-2,600 at independent garages, up to €3,500 at dealers. Regular DSG oil changes every 60,000 km are essential. The manual gearbox is significantly more reliable.
Short trips and city driving prevent complete DPF regeneration · more· less
The 2.0 TDI's diesel particulate filter requires sustained driving at speed to regenerate properly - at least 100 km on highways maintaining 3,000 RPM for 20-25 minutes to reach 600°C exhaust temperatures. Frequent short trips or heavy city traffic prevent full regeneration cycles, causing carbon buildup. Symptoms include black smoke, loss of power, check engine light, and strong exhaust smell. DPF cleaning costs €100 if caught early. However, heavily loaded filters require complete replacement at €1,000-2,000 (OEM filters €1,900, aftermarket €350-600). Sensors often fail alongside the DPF. Oil dilution from incomplete regenerations can damage the engine if oil changes aren't halved to counter this. Skoda recommends using Longlife III 5W-30 oil and changing it twice as often if the car is used primarily for short trips.
AdBlue system sensor/pump failure€120 - €500
AdBlue level sensors and dosing units fail after 40,000-60,000 km · more· less
AdBlue system malfunctions are common in the 2.0 TDI, typically occurring after 40,000-60,000 km. The most frequent issue is fault code P203F (Reductant Level Too Low) where the system falsely reports an empty tank even when full. The level sensor inside the 18-litre AdBlue tank is the usual culprit. Replacing the defective output line from tank to dosing unit costs around €250. Dosing unit failures run €300-500. Diagnostic fees are typically €120. Clogged AdBlue lines and defective sensors cause SCR system faults that can eventually prevent the vehicle from restarting. Always verify AdBlue-related repairs before warranty expiration if possible.
EGR valve failure€350 - €1,600
Exhaust gas recirculation valve wear typical after 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve is a known weak point on VW Group 2.0 TDI engines. Symptoms include engine light, rough idle, vibrations, loss of power, strong exhaust smell, and engine stalling. Heavy carbon buildup causes the valve to stick, leading to increased emissions and reduced performance. Typical failure occurs between 80,000-120,000 km. Replacement at independent garages costs €350-360, while dealers charge €600-1,600. Some failures occurred after the "Dieselgate" emissions fix software update - VW Group has offered goodwill discounts or free replacements in some cases. Regular long motorway runs help prevent carbon accumulation.
Electric parking brake actuator failure€500 - €1,000
EPB motor in brake caliper fails, particularly 2017-2019 models · more· less
Electric parking brake malfunctions are one of the most common electronic failures in the Kodiaq, with 2017-2019 models particularly affected. Problems occur in two phases: early software-related issues after 15,000-25,000 km, and mechanical actuator failures after 50,000-70,000 km. The electric motor within the brake caliper is the typical failure point. Symptoms include "Parking brake not working" messages or unintentional activation while driving. Repair costs around €505 per caliper for motor replacement. Corrosion and moisture compromise reliability. Battery drain can also lock the EPB "on" - requiring a jump start to release. DIY brake pad changes require special tools (like Carista) to retract the electronic parking brake. Never attempt EPB repairs yourself - brake system failures are safety-critical.
Infotainment system freezing/rebooting€0 - €800
Screen freezes, crashes, or randomly powers on - usually software issue · more· less
Infotainment issues are the most commonly reported non-engine problem on the Kodiaq. The system freezes, crashes unexpectedly, or reboots while driving (particularly during sat-nav use). Some owners report screens randomly turning on when the car is unlocked, sometimes hours later, with music blaring. Display glitches include oversized icons and partial screen blackouts. User profile loading failures and WiFi connectivity problems are common. Most issues are software-related and fixable with updates (free under warranty). Soft reset: hold power button 10-15 seconds. Factory reset: Car → Settings → Factory settings. Head unit replacement is needed only on certain production runs with known hardware faults (cost €600-800 if out of warranty). Skoda Connect subscription reliability is poor according to many owners.
Front brake disc premature wear€200 - €600
Front discs and pads wear quickly, often within 30,000-40,000 km · more· less
The Kodiaq's weight (1,650-1,850 kg depending on spec) causes accelerated front brake wear, particularly on heavier 4x4 variants. Front pads and discs often need replacement after just 30,000-40,000 km, much sooner than expected. Dealer quotes run €400-600 for front pads and discs. Independent garages charge €200-250 using OEM parts. Parts alone cost €150-180 for pads and discs. Minimum brake pad thickness is 2mm; typical lifespan is 25,000-65,000 km for pads, 50,000+ km for discs under normal use. The Kodiaq uses electronic parking brake which requires special tools for DIY pad replacement.
Timing belt (if neglected)€550 - €1,000
Scheduled replacement at 210,000 km, but some mechanics recommend 4.5 years · more· less
The 2.0 TDI uses a timing belt (not a chain) requiring replacement every 210,000 km. Skoda recently removed the 5-year time-based interval - it's now mileage-only. However, some mechanics personally recommend sticking to 4.5 years maximum regardless of mileage for peace of mind, especially on diesels. Cost varies widely: dealers charge €700-1,000, independents €550-600 using genuine parts. The belt itself costs only €13-96 - most of the expense is 6-8 hours labor. Water pump replacement is strongly recommended at the same time (adds €100-150) since it's in the same location - replacing the belt then having the water pump fail shortly after means paying for labor twice. Timing belt failure causes catastrophic engine damage on this interference engine.
Turbocharger failure (high mileage)€700 - €2,500
Turbo problems after 80,000-100,000 km, especially 190 hp variants · more· less
Turbocharger failures on the 2.0 TDI typically occur after 80,000-100,000 km, more common on the 190 hp variant. Symptoms include loss of power and blue smoke from the exhaust. The most common failure is variable vane mechanism sticking or seizing due to carbon buildup, causing overboost. This often results from "gentle" driving - never using the full rev range encourages carbon accumulation. Irregular oil changes accelerate turbo wear. New turbo costs €700-1,200, with labor adding €300-600 depending on accessibility (total €1,000-2,500). Regular spirited driving and proper oil change intervals help prevent premature failure. Always verify oil change history before purchase.
Generally reliable for a large SUV, but DSG and diesel systems need attention
The Kodiaq scored 94.7% in the What Car? Reliability Survey for diesel versions (4th out of 12 in the 7-seater class), significantly better than the petrol's 91.8%. The 2.0 TDI EA288 engine itself is robust, but support systems (DSG transmission, DPF, EGR, AdBlue) require proper maintenance and driving patterns. Avoid DSG if possible - manual gearbox is far more reliable. Not suitable for only short trips or urban-only use due to DPF issues. Electrical gremlins (infotainment, parking brake) are the main non-engine complaints but usually fixable under warranty.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Complete service history essential
Verify all services at correct intervals, especially DSG oil changes every 60,000 km and engine oil changes (critical for turbo and DPF longevity).
Tires - size 235/55 R18 or 235/50 R19
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm recommended), age via date codes, and uneven wear patterns indicating suspension or alignment issues.
Cold start absolutely essential
Engine must be completely cold. Listen for unusual noises, rattles, or smoke. Turbo issues and DPF problems often only show when cold.
Extended test drive - minimum 30 minutes
Include varied driving: city traffic for DSG behavior, highway speeds for DPF regeneration check, and hills for turbo performance.
Body condition and parking sensors
Large car frequently used in tight spaces - check all corners for scuffs, dents, parking sensor functionality.
Specific for this vehicle
DSG transmission operation (if equipped)
Drive for 20+ minutes to get transmission hot. Feel for juddering when starting from standstill, erratic shifts, hesitation, or clunking. Check for any "emergency mode" or gearbox warning lights. Manual gearbox strongly preferred.
DPF regeneration status
Ask owner about typical journey lengths. If mostly short trips (under 15 km), DPF likely has issues. Check for black smoke on acceleration, loss of power, or check engine light. Request DPF soot loading readout if possible.
AdBlue system check
Verify AdBlue light is off and system shows correct level (tank holds 18 liters). Common fault code P203F indicates sensor issues. Test that top-ups register correctly in the system.
Infotainment system functionality
Test all features: sat-nav, Bluetooth, USB, WiFi connectivity, Skoda Connect if equipped. Try soft reset (hold power 10-15 seconds) to see if it freezes or behaves erratically. Check for available software updates.
Electric parking brake operation
Activate and release EPB multiple times. Listen for unusual noises from brake calipers. Check for any warning messages. 2017-2019 models most susceptible.
Timing belt replacement verification
Check service records for timing belt change. Due at 210,000 km but some recommend 4.5 years. Verify water pump replaced at same time. If approaching interval, factor €550-1,000 into purchase price.
EGR valve and turbo functionality
No engine light, smooth power delivery, no hesitation. On cold start, no excessive smoke. Under hard acceleration, turbo should spool smoothly without oil smoke.
Coolant level and condition
Check reservoir - level should be stable between min/max. Brown or milky appearance indicates head gasket or coolant mixing issues. Water pump failures cause slow leaks.
Brake condition (especially front)
Front brakes wear prematurely. Check pad thickness and disc condition. Worn discs have visible grooves or lips. Budget €200-600 if replacement needed soon.
Contact a Skoda dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls completed. The VIN is usually on the lower-left corner of the dashboard in front of the steering wheel. There is no charge for recall work. The airbag and brake-related recalls are particularly safety-critical.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years / unlimited km)Expired on 2016-2021 models
Extended warranty available£38/month (UK pricing)
DSG extended warrantyCheck with dealer
Corrosion warranty12 years perforation
All 2016-2021 Kodiaqs are outside factory warranty. Skoda offers service packages including two services, two MOTs, roadside assistance, and warranty extension for approximately £38/month in the UK. Pricing varies by country in Europe. Some DSG failures occurred under extended warranty - verify coverage terms before purchase. Note that approximately 20% of warranty repairs took over one week, and 20% of faults rendered vehicles undriveable, though Skoda covered 68% of repair costs under warranty.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.