Carlston

The 19" tyres on the Karoq 4x4 have bigger sidewalls than the 19" tyres on the Karoq 2WD, so not a fair comparison. Many owners have commented that the Michelin CrossClimates improve the ride compared to the Original Equipment tyres. All-season tyres in general tend to have soft and flexible sidewalls, so they don't necessarily have to be CrossClimates to improve the ride compared to OE tyres. The Karoq 4x4 also has independent rear suspension (unlike the Karoq 2WD), which might also help ride comfort...especially for rear seat passengers because they are sitting over the rear axle. Tyre sidewall height 225/40 90mm 225/45 101.25mm So to sum up the comparison between your Karoq 4x4 and a Karoq 2WD on OE tyres...you've got bigger sidewalls, all-season tyres, and independent rear suspension...no wonder your passengers are not complaining about the ride. Bear in mind though, that a lot will depend on the type of roads you drive on. Smooth sections of road won't cause a problem for even the Karoq 2WD on 19" OE tyres.

The standard 19" tyre sizes on the Karoq 2WD are either 225/40R19 or 235/40R19. The standard 19" tyre sizes on the Karoq 4x4 are either 225/45R19 or 245/40R19. The owner of the below Karoq 2WD changed his 225/40R19 tyres to 215/55R17 for better ride comfort. Karoq 2WD fitted with 225/40R19 tyres Karoq 2WD fitted with 215/55R17 tyres Karoq 2WD standard tyre sizes 215/60R16 6Jx16 ET43 215/55R17 7Jx17 ET45 215/50R18 7Jx18 ET45 225/40R19 8Jx19 ET45 235/40R19 8Jx19 ET45 Karoq 4x4 standard tyre sizes 225/60R16 6Jx16 ET43 225/55R17 7Jx17 ET45 225/50R18 7Jx18 ET45 225/45R19 8Jx19 ET45 245/40R19 8Jx19 ET45 28 different rims are shown for the Karoq in the Skoda accessory catalogue, and include all sizes from 16" to 19". The Karoq 2WD and Karoq 4x4 share the same rims, with the outside diameters of the Karoq 4x4 tyres being slightly bigger than the Karoq 2WD tyres. Karoq alloy rims shown in the Skoda accessory catalogue (28 different rims currently shown for the Karoq) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kola/c/alloyWheels?sort=priceAsc&q=%3AscoreDesc%3AcarType%3AKaroq%2B%282017%2B%29&show=Page# https://www.skoda-auto.com/_doc/6d5c59b3-5d97-451a-ab78-2ef185e6e373

If it uses 340x30mm front brake discs, then 17" rims will be the minimum diameter to clear the front brake calipers. The standard 17" wheel size on the Octavia MK4 is 205/55R17 fitted to either a 6.5Jx17 ET46 or 7Jx17 ET46 rim. One non-standard option could be 225/50R17 fitted to 7Jx17 ET45 rims from the Karoq, such as the rims shown below. 7Jx17 ET45 5/112 57.1 alloy rims (from Karoq) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kola/c/alloyWheels?sort=priceAsc&q=%3AscoreDesc%3AcarType%3AKaroq%2B%282017%2B%29%3ArimDiameter%3A17#

If you have a look in the Skoda parts catalogue, you will see that the specification of the standard 19" wheels is 7.5Jx19 ET51 or to give the full specification it's 7.5Jx19 ET51 5/112 57.1 Skoda parts catalogue https://www.lllparts.co.uk/catalogs/skoda/CZ/OCT/805/6/601/601090

Almost no one makes a 235/35R18 tyre size. The outside diameter is too small. Outside diameter of tyres 225/40R18 637.2mm 235/35R18 621.7mm (2.4% smaller outside diameter compared to 225/40R18)

On those 6Jx15 ET38 5/100 57.1 rims, slightly oversize 195/60R15 would be a good choice. As you can see in the chart below, the outside diameter of the 195/55R15 tyre is closer to the original 185/60R15 tyre size than the 195/60R15 tyre size, but it is a less comfortable tyre size because it has less sidewall height and it's generally a more expensive tyre size than the bigger sidewalled 195/60R15. Compared to the standard 185/60R15, the slightly wider 195/60R15 will also slightly better protect the rim from kerbing damage because the sidewalls bulge out a bit more. 185/65R15 is also a possibility and it brings the option of the latest Continental AllSeasonContact 2 tyre. However, you might find that the engine doesn't pull the 3.1% higher gears quite as well as the standard gearing. An outside possibility is the 205/55R15 tyre size. This is generally an expension tyre size with a limited choice of tyres, but one interesting summer tyre option in this size is the Uniroyal RainSport 5. Outside diameter of tyres 185/60R15 603mm 195/55R15 595.5mm (1.2% smaller outside diameter compared to 185/60R15) 205/55R15 606.5mm (0.6% bigger outside diameter compared to 185/60R15) 195/60R15 615mm (2.0% bigger outside diameter compared to 185/60R15) 185/65R15 621.5mm (3.1% bigger outside diameter compared to 185/60R15) Vredestein Quatrac 6 195/60R15 88H (Euro label C B 70dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m138b0s7993p202144/Vredestein_Tyres_All_Season_Car_Vredestein_Quatrac_6_195_60_R15_88H_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_B_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_70dB Uniroyal RainExpert 5 195/60R15 88H (Euro label C A 71dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m53b0s411p208611/Uniroyal_Tyres_Car_Uniroyal_RainExpert_5_195_60_R15_88H_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_A_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_71dB Continental AllSeasonContact 2 185/65R15 88H (Euro label B B 71dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m138b0s7990p221952/Continental_Tyres_All_Season_Car_Continental_Conti_All_Season_Contact_2_185_65_R15_88H_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_B_Wet_Grip%3A_B_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_71dB Uniroyal RainExpert 5 185/65R15 88H (Euro label C A 70dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m53b0s417p208620/Uniroyal_Tyres_Car_Uniroyal_RainExpert_5_185_65_R15_88H_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_A_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_70dB Uniroyal RainSport 5 205/55R15 88V (Euro label C A 71dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m53b0s289p188338/Uniroyal_Tyres_Car_Uniroyal_RainSport_5_205_55_R15_88V_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_A_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_71dB So as not to miss out the standard 185/60R15 tyre size, here's one possible option for a summer tyre in this size. Uniroyal RainExpert 5 185/60R15 84H (Euro label C A 70dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m53b0s410p208661/Uniroyal_Tyres_Car_Uniroyal_RainExpert_5_185_60_R15_84H_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_A_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_70dB Compared to the 215/45R16 tyre size, the outside diameter of the 195/55R15 tyre size is only 0.7% smaller. If you found a particular tyre that you liked in this size, it could be yet another option. Outside diameter of tyres 215/45R16 599.9mm 195/55R15 595.5mm (0.7% smaller outside diameter compared to 215/45R16) Uniroyal RainSport 5 195/55R15 85H (Euro label C A 71dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m53b0s288p188168/Uniroyal_Tyres_Car_Uniroyal_RainSport_5_195_55_R15_85H_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_A_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_71dB

Bilstein B4 23-238978 DampTronic front shock absorbers are used to replace all four OEM part numbers, as shown in the list below. 3Q0413031AK 3Q0413031BE 3Q0413032 3Q0413032A https://www.autodoc.co.uk/bilstein/7949490#shock-absorber These same Bilstein B4 230238978 DampTronic front shock absorbers are also used to replace both Kodiaq OEM part numbers. The Kodiaq is an increased ride height car, so there seems little doubt that these Bilstein DampTronic front shock absorbers could be used with increased ride height front springs on the Superb MK3. Kodiaq DampTronic front shock absorber OEM part numbers 5QF413031AC 5QF413032B The same applies to the Karoq. It's an increased ride height car and Bilstein B4 23-238978 DampTronic front shock absorbers can also be used to replace the Karoq's OEM part number. Karoq DampTronic front shock absorber OEM part number 3Q0413032 With the DampTronic rear shock absorbers, the Monroe is listed for the standard ride height and increased ride height Superb MK3 but the Bilstein is only listed for the standard ride height Superb MK3. Monroe C1521S DampTronic rear shock absorbers are listed for these Superb MK3 OEM part numbers 3Q0513045AA 3Q0513045AC 3Q0513045AD 3Q0513045AJ https://www.autodoc.co.uk/monroe/19151782 Bilstein B4 20-267520 DampTronic rear shock absorbers are listed for these Suberb MK3 OEM part numbers 3Q0513045AA 3Q0513045AC 3Q0513045AD https://www.autodoc.co.uk/bilstein/12775653 So it's not such a clear picture with the rear DampTronic shock absorbers. For this reason, perhaps try fitting increased ride height springs first because as well as having a small doubt about rear DampTronic shock absorber compatibility they are easy to fit...perhaps about half of the labour involved compared to changing the front springs. If there are problems with the compatibility of your current DampTronic rear shock absorbers and increased ride height rear springs, then Bilstein might be able to help with their Bilstein B4 20-279547 DampTronic rear shock absorbers that they sell for cars such as the VW Passat B8 Alltrack and Karoq (with multilink rear suspension). Bilstein B4 20-279547 DampTronic rear shock absorbers https://www.autodoc.co.uk/bilstein/13771483

I suggest you find out the OEM part numbers for the original shock absorbers. This makes it easier to find suitable aftermarket replacements. For the Octavia MK2 with standard ride height, ie. not lowered or increased ride height, here are the front shock absorbers listed in the Skoda parts catalogue. There isn't just one front shock absorber for petrol cars because what front shock absorbers are originally fitted depends on what front springs are used...and what front springs are used depends on the weight of the engine and gearbox. However, the aftermarket shock absorber market will usually sell just one shock absorber to cover a huge range of OEM part numbers...as shown in the example below. Front shock absorbers for the Octavia MK2 with standard ride height KYB 334834 front shock absorbers (50mm strut) are being sold to replace the following four OEM part numbers and many others 1K0413031AD 1K0413031BE 1K0413031BF 1K0413031BG KYB 335808 front shock absorbers (55mm strut) are being sold to replace the following five OEM part numbers and many others 1T0413031DL 1T0413031FM 1T0413031HM 1T0413031HN 1T0413031HP

VAT@21% (so 1% more than the UK VAT rate) is already included in the Czech price. However, I'm not suggesting anyone should purchase from Czech...I'm simply using their website to compare prices and to find out the specification and view photos, etc. I expect a UK VAG parts department could supply the rims cheaper than Caffyns once shipping is taken into account. About a year or two ago, there were some new 6.5Jx17 ET40 5/100 57.1 Scala alloy rims from the Skoda alloy rim accessory catalogue listed on ebay for about £100 each...so the circa £200 rims look quite pricey in comparison. However, those £100 rims were particularly good value, and only available in silver not black. Not that you would want 17" rims if you were looking for maximum comfort, because the 6Jx16 rims with the 205/55R16 tyre size would be noticeably more comfortable than the 6.5Jx17 rims with the 205/50R17 tyre size. Also, 205/55R16 is generally a much cheaper tyre size than 205/50R17.

I'm no electronic/computer expert, but the DCC isn't human...so won't know that you've changed the springs. Similarly, if a spring was to break (which they often do on the Superb MK3) I doubt any error messages would display. Bear in mind that each DCC shock absorber can be used with a large range of springs, ie. it isn't one DCC shock absorbers always has to be used with the same spring. Increased ride height rear springs for the Superb MK3 with DCC (these are also listed as increased ride height springs for the Superb MK3 without DCC) 1 3Q0511115BG Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YA 1 3Q0511115AN Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YB 1 3Q0511115AP Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YC 1 3Q0511115AQ Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YD 1 3Q0511115AR Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YE 1 3Q0511115AS Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YF 1 3Q0511115AT Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YG 1 3Q0511115BA Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YH 1 3Q0511115BB Coil spring 2 PR-UC9+0YJ https://www.lllparts.co.uk/catalogs/skoda/CZ/SUP/851/5/511/511010 On autodoc, aftermarket springs are only shown for the following OEM part numbers out of the above list of nine increased ride height rear springs, ie. weight range 6 (0YF) to weight range 9 (0YJ). This is normal, because weight range 1 (0YA) to weight range 5 (0YE) probably aren't used much. Above springs shown on autodoc 3Q0511115AS Eibach R22930 (about £49 each on ebay) https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares-search?keyword=3Q0511115AS&supplier[]=112 3Q0511115AT Kilen 65119 KYB RA5448 (about £26 each on ebay) Lesjofors 4295130 https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares-search?keyword=3Q0511115AT&supplier[]=85&supplier[]=253&supplier[]=246 3Q0511115BA Eibach R22931 (about £48 each on ebay) https://www.autodoc.co.uk/car-parts/oem/3q0511115ba?supplier[]=112 3Q0511115BB Kilen 65121 Lesjofors 4295131 https://www.autodoc.co.uk/car-parts/oem/3q0511115bb?supplier[]=246&supplier[]=253 If you have a Superb MK3 with front wheel drive perhaps try 3Q0511115AS or 3Q0511115AT, and if you have a Superb MK3 with four wheel drive perhaps try 3Q0511115BA or 3Q0511115BB.

There's one way to find out...fit 15mm longer springs. There's likely to be far more sag in the shock absorbers when on standard ride height springs than 15mm. However, perhaps start with the tyre size. Changing 235/45R18 to 215/60R17 will increase the ride height by 10.55mm. Then changing the springs, will give a combined increase in ride height of over 25mm. Outside diameter of tyres 215/60R16 664.4mm 215/55R17 668.3mm 235/45R18 668.7mm 235/40R19 670.6mm 215/60R17 689.8mm 6.5Jx17 ET41 5/112 57.1 alloy rims (from Superb MK3) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kola/c/alloyWheels?sort=priceAsc&q=%3AscoreDesc%3AcarType%3ASuperb%2BIII%2B%282015%2B%29%3ArimDiameter%3A17# Monroe sells its DCC rear shock absorber for both standard ride height and increased ride cars. So if Monroe DCC shock absorbers can cope with increased ride height springs, I expect Bilstein DCC shock absorbers would also be able to cope. Monroe C1521S rear shock absorber DCC 3Q0513045AA build codes 1JP+1X1 3Q0513045AC build codes 1JP+1X1 3Q0513045AD build codes 1JP+1X0 3Q0513045AJ build code UC9 https://www.autodoc.co.uk/monroe/19151782

Caffyns are listing the "Black Metallic Alaris 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 654071496A FL8" for £184.60 including VAT. This is over 20% more than the Czech price shown on "skoda eshop cz". Notice that this OEM part number has the format xxx071xxx which shows that it comes from the "Skoda alloy rim accessory catalogue". If the format is xxx061xxx it doesn't come from the accessory catalogue, and is likely to be more than twice the price. Some alloy rims in the accessory catalogue are identical to the factory rims, except for the OEM part number cast into them. With others, it might only be that the colour is different. The black Alaris alloy rim isn't available as a factory alloy rim, but is exclusively available in the accessory catalogue. However, the silver Alaris is available as both a factory rim and from the accessory catalogue. For this reason, if you order a new Skoda, make sure the alloy rims that come with the car are also available from the accessory catalogue so that if you need a single replacement the price will likely be less than half the factory alloy rim price. The reason that the Skoda alloy rims in the accessory catalogue are far more affordable than the factory rims is because Skoda is using their accessory catalogue to complete on price with the aftermarket alloy rim market.

According to the Skoda parts catalogue, the Fabia MK1 uses the same master cylinder (OEM part number 6Q0611019Q) if it has anti-lock brakes and either 256x22mm or 288x25mm front brake discs. For example the below chart shows that a Fabia MK1 with build codes 1AN + 1LR would have the 6Q0611019Q master cylinder. Fabia MK1 with master cylinder 6Q0611019Q (20.64mm bore) has the following build codes 1AC, 1AN, 1AR, 1AT + 1LN, 1LP, 1LQ, 1LR, 1ZD or written another way... 1AC or 1AN or 1AR or 1AT plus 1LN or 1LP or 1LQ or 1LR or 1ZD Skoda parts catalogue https://www.lllparts.co.uk/catalogs/skoda/CZ/FAB/453/6/611/611010 The 256x22mm front brakes discs aren't the smallest front brake discs on the Fabia MK1 because there's also 239x18mm. Even now, the Fabia MK4, Scala, and Kamiq models are still using 256x22mm front brake discs on some models. If VAG felt they were underpowered they wouldn't still be using them. I suggest you first fit new OE quality front brake pads such as ATE and new front brake discs if they are badly worn.

Wheel trims can look attractive, as shown in the below photo. Audi A2 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A2#/media/File:Audi_A2_L_Silber.jpg

Here's a couple of 15" steel rim options for the Scala. Neither are Skoda approved. Alcar 7760 6Jx15 ET38 5/100 57.1 steel rim (from Fabia MK3 and Rapid) https://www.mytyres.co.uk/rims/details?vehicleId=799668759568299108&rimCode=ALCAR7760 Skoda wheel trims for 6Jx15 ET38 5/100 57.1 steel rims (from Fabia MK3 and Rapid) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/en_CZ/full-wheel-covers/c/fullWheelCovers?q=%3ApriceAsc%3AcarType%3AFabia%2BIII%2B%282014%2B%29%3AcarType%3ARapid%2B%282012-2020%29%3ArimDiameter%3A15&text=# Another option could be the 5.5Jx15 ET40 5/100 57.1 steel rims from the Fabia MK4, as shown below. 5.5J is quite a narrow rim for the 205/60R15 tyre size, but the Karoq 4x4 lists a 225/60R16 fitted to a 6J rim which is a similar fit. The car would ride more like a Rolls Royce than a Ferrari on such relatively narrow rims. Alcar 4055 5.5Jx15 ET40 5/100 57.1 steel rim (from Fabia MK4) https://www.mytyres.co.uk/rims/details?vehicleId=1360399348768339044&rimCode=ALCAR4055 Skoda wheel trim for 5.5Jx15 ET40 5/100 57.1 steel rim (from Fabia MK4) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/en_CZ/hub-covers-calisto-15/p/6VA071455 As you can see in the ETRTO chart below, a 205/60 can be fitted to a rim width between 5.5" and 7.5", with a 6" rim width being considered the standard rim width for this tyre size...hence highlighted in bold. When determining the range of rim widths that a tyre can be fitted to it's not necessary to consider the rim diameter, just the tyre's "nominal" width and aspect ratio. ETRTO approved rim widths for passenger car tyres 195/65 5.5-6.0-7.0 195/60 5.5-6.0-7.0 205/60 5.5-6.0-7.5 205/55 5.5-6.5-7.5 205/50 5.5-6.5-7.5 205/45 6.5-7.0-7.5

When changing from standard ride height springs to sports/lowered ride height springs you need to change the 70mm front buffer to a 55mm, and the 127mm rear buffer to a 112mm. When considering the length of replacement springs, remember that the stiffer the spring the less it will compress under the weight of the car. For example, if you changed the below 3Q0511115AA rear spring to 3Q0511115AD you might expect the rear ride height to drop by 9mm by just comparing the uncompressed lengths, but when you take into account the increased stiffness of the spring the rear ride height might actually increase by about 3mm. Standard ride height front spring 5Q0411105GM Length 315mm, Wire diameter 12.25mm Sports/lowered ride height front springs 5Q0411105HE Length 278mm, Wire diameter 12.25mm https://www.autodoc.co.uk/eibach/17876011 5Q0411105HF Length 282mm, Wire diameter 12.5mm https://www.autodoc.co.uk/eibach/17876012 5Q0411105HG Length 287mm, Wire diameter 12.75mm https://www.autodoc.co.uk/eibach/17875999 Standard ride height rear spring 3Q0511115AL Length 359mm, Wire diameter 12.5mm Sports/lowered ride height rear springs 3Q0511115AA Length 324mm, Wire diameter 12.75mm https://www.autodoc.co.uk/eibach/18112509 3Q0511115AB Length 330mm, Wire diameter 13mm https://www.autodoc.co.uk/eibach/18112504 3Q0511115AC Length 320mm, Wire diameter 13.5mm https://www.autodoc.co.uk/eibach/16620565 3Q0511115AD Length 315mm, Wire diameter 13.75mm https://www.autodoc.co.uk/eibach/18112510 55mm front buffer 1K0412303F (for use with sports/lowered ride height springs) https://www.autodoc.co.uk/topran/2725191#rubber-buffer-suspension 112mm rear buffer 5Q0511357J (for use with sports/lowered ride height springs) https://www.autodoc.co.uk/topran/8878002#rubber-buffer-suspension

I know someone who has in recent years fitted KYB springs almost exclusively to about 10 different cars. The cars have often done high mileage, yet without any problems...no corrosion, no breakages, and no incorrect ride height. Considering that the Scala is fitted with KYB shock absorbers out of the factory by Skoda, and is one of the biggest suppliers of car springs and car shock absorbers in the world, I regard KYB as a premium brand. KYB claim to be number four or five in the world. KYB claim to make their aftermarket springs and aftermarket shock absorbers at least as good as the ones they sell to car manufacturers for fitment to new cars. The incorrect ride height problem will usually be people selecting the wrong springs. Many KYB springs (like most other aftermarket spring brands) are sold to replace more than one OEM part number, so these springs are often not a like for like replacement, but will often be longer and/or stiffer than the springs they are replacing. To avoid this problem, you need to look at the full list of springs that an aftermarket spring is being sold to replace. For example, KYB RA5331 rear springs are sold to replace just 3Q0511115AL and no other OEM part number, so should be an exact match Sometimes I've seen a KYB spring that gives a specification that is at odds with the specification given by another premium brand, such as Sachs. This might be a 0.5mm thinner or thicker wire diameter. I would probably avoid this particular KYB spring. Aftermarket spring brands do often make mistakes in the specifications that they give, so sometimes it might be that the specification they've given is incorrect rather than the aftermarket spring not matching the factory spring that it's being sold to replace. However, I did hear of one car owner who fitted KYB springs that were shown in the specification (and therefore should have been avoided) as having a wire diameter 0.5mm thicker than it should be...and the ride height did end up a little on the high side. There are lots of counterfeit springs being sold, so maybe the very rusty KYB spring was a fake. Why would KYB's very modern factories produce springs that weren't well protected against rust? Cheap Chinese springs will often rust, so maybe that "KYB" spring was actually a Chinese counterfeit. It's well known that China are the counterfeit capital of the world. I've got a small preference for Kilen/Lesjofors springs over KYB because Kilen/Lesjofors are made in Sweden and are Europe's biggest manufacturer of aftermarket car springs. However, the final choice will often depend on how well I think the aftermarket springs will match the OEM springs. It's nice to see that KYB often (but not always) list the specification of their springs but Kilen/Lesjofors never do. Whatever springs you purchase, make sure you take and record full measurements before fitting...such as weight, length, wire diameter, outside diameter, number of coil turns, and a photo. Then if you notice any problems after fitting such as incorrect ride height, and/or too soft or too stiff, you can investigate further with the knowledge of those measurements. It's also important to find out before fitting a replacement spring that it actually matches the specification that you think it should be. Sellers often get parts returned by buyers, and things can get put back in the wrong box. The easiest measurement to make is weight (if you have digital kitchen scales). I was once sent a spring that weighed more than twice what it should have...and of cause, it was the wrong spring. You should be able to use sports/lowered ride height springs with the standard shock absorbers, because not only are they about the same stiffness...but they are only about 15mm shorter (based on unladen ride height). Eibach even state that their lowered ride height springs can be used with the standard ride height shock absorbers...and those springs will give a bigger drop in ride height than the Skoda sports/lowered ride height springs. One problem with fitting lowered ride height springs, such as a 15mm drop, is that you may need to increase the stiffness of the springs to prevent bottoming out. This of course makes the ride harder, but because the standard ride height car is known to ride quite softly many owners will still find the ride acceptable. One way to bring the ride comfort back is to fit tyres with bigger sidewalls. So if you've got the hardest riding 235/40R19, then changing to 215/55R17 would make quite a difference. Here's an example of an all-season 215/55R17 tyre. Continental AllSeasonContact 2 215/55R17 94V (Euro label B B 70dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m140b0s8825p220589/Continental_Tyres_All_Season_Car_Continental_Conti_All_Season_Contact_2_215_55_R17_94V_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_B_Wet_Grip%3A_B_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_70dB

Here are the four 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1 alloy rims shown in the "Skoda alloy rim accessory catalogue" for the Scala. These are approved by Skoda for use with 205/55R16 when fitted to the Scala. Silver Alaris 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 9.4kg 654071496D 8Z8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-alaris-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496D+8Z8 Black Metallic Alaris 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 9.4kg 654071496A FL8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-alaris-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496A+FL8 Silver Orion 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 9.4kg 654071496E 8Z8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-orion-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496E+8Z8 Black metallic Hoedus Aero 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 654071496F FL8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-hoedus-aero-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496F+FL8 Here are the four 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 alloy rims shown in the "Skoda alloy rim accessory catalogue". These are approved by Skoda for use with 195/60R16 and snow chains when fitted to the Scala. In the UK (car insurance permitting), you could probably also use these ET35 offset rims with 205/55R16, but that tyre size is not approved by Skoda for use with the ET35 offset. However, to be sure what wheel specifications Skoda has approved for your car it's always worth checking your car's CoC (Certificate of Conformity) because all Skoda approved wheel specifications for your car are listed in that document. Silver Nanuq 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 9.4kg 654071496B 8Z8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-nanuq-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496B+8Z8 Black Nanuq 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 9.4kg 654071496C FL8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-nanuq-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496C+FL8 Silver Italia 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 8.6kg 654071496L 8Z8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-italia-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496L+8Z8 Black Italia 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 alloy rim 8.6kg 654071496M FL8 https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kolo-italia-16-scala-kamiq/p/654071496M+FL8 There are also two steel rims available for the Scala. The 6Jx16 ET40 5/100 57.1 steel rim is approved by Skoda for 205/55R16, and the 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 steel rim is approved by Skoda for 195/60R16 and snow chains. As you will notice by the 7.3kg and 7.43kg weights of these two steel rims, they weigh quite a bit less than the similar sized alloy rims that Skoda sell for the Scala. Notice that the Scala uses an ET40 offset for its steel rim, instead of the ET38 offset that it uses for its alloy rims. However, the Scala uses the same ET35 offset for both its steel rim and its alloy rims. Black 6Jx16 ET40 5/100 57.1 steel rim 7.3kg 2Q0601027AA 03C https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/plechovy-disk-16-/p/2Q0601027AA03C Black 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 steel rim 7.43kg 2Q0601027H 03C https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/plechovy-disk-16-/p/2Q0601027H+03C

Are they genuine Bosch wiper blades or counterfeit? Counterfeit goods are a big problem for many of the big brand names. Perhaps contact Bosch with photo evidence and ask them if they are genuine.

I am not suggesting you purchase from overseas. I use "skoda eshop cz" purely for information because they are quite good at putting photos up of the various alloy rims in the "Skoda alloy rim accessory catalogue". Here is a link to the "2023 Skoda alloy rim accessory catalogue". However, I prefer to use "skoda eshop cz" which shows the same Skoda alloy rims. The UK VAG parts departments price shouldn't be much different from that Czech website, although you would need to check. The UK VAG parts departments can order in exactly the same parts as their European counterparts. 2023 Skoda alloy rim accessory catalogue https://www.skoda-auto.com/_doc/a1a05a53-26b1-4278-9251-515531f22ecb "skoda eshop cz" (the alloy rims from the Skoda accessory catalogue are shown on this website) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kola/c/alloyWheels

All Scala models (including the most powerful models with the biggest front brake discs) can be fitted with 195/65R15 tyres and 6Jx15 ET35 5/100 57.1 rims. This is one of the Skoda approved winter wheel sizes...the other being 195/60R16 fitted to a 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 rim. The below link shows Skoda alloy rims for the Scala (from the Skoda accessory catalogue). You should be able to order any of them from a UK VAG parts department using the OEM part number. For example, on the "skoda eshop cz" website, the below silver Nanuq 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 alloy rim has an OEM part number 654071496B 8Z8 and is listed at 3399CZK (about £115 each). 16" alloy rims for Scala (6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1 and 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kola/c/alloyWheels?sort=priceAsc&q=%3AscoreDesc%3AcarType%3AScala%2B%282019%2B%29%3ArimDiameter%3A16%22# I doubt 205/55R16 fitted to the 6Jx16 ET35 rim is approved by Skoda, as I suspect that rim specification is reserved for the 195/60R16 winter tyre size. However, I have seen a Skoda dealer listing both 195/60R16 and 205/55R16 for the 6Jx16 ET35 rim...but that doesn't mean that both tyre sizes are approved by Skoda. If in doubt, check the car's CoC (Certificate of Conformity)...which should list all of the Skoda approved wheel sizes. Steel rims are also available for the Scala, with 6Jx15 ET35 5/100 57.1, 6Jx16 ET35 5/100 57.1, and 6Jx16 ET40 5/100 57.1 specifications. One non-standard option is 205/60R15 fitted to 6Jx15 ET35 or 6Jx15 ET38. The 205/60R15 tyre size was quite common on the Skoda Octavia MK1 and MK2. This could be an interesting option if you wanted a little more sidewall than 205/55R16 but considered 195/65R15 to be a little on the skinny side. The Octavia MK4 uses a very similar 205/60R16, ie. 1" bigger diameter, as it's entry level tyre size. Here's a couple of Uniroyal summer tyres in both the 205/60R15 91V and 205/55R16 91V tyre sizes. Notice that these Uniroyal tyres have a different tread pattern for 60 and 55 aspect ratios. I prefer the tread pattern that the 60 aspect ratio tyre uses. Also notice that both the 205/60R15 and 205/55R16 tyre sizes have the same Standard Load index, ie. 91 (615kg). This means that you could use the same tyre pressures with both tyre sizes because they can support exactly the same weight when inflated to the same tyre pressure. I expect most Scala owners would stick to Skoda approved tyre and rim sizes, but the option is there for those that like to have something a little different. 15" rims do have one big advantage over 16" rims...they weigh quite a bit less. The above 16" alloy rims weigh about 9.4kg each, but you can get super lightweight 15" rims (such as Pepperpots from the early Audi A3) that weigh only 5.7kg each. Multiple that by four, and you've got almost a 15kg saving in unsprung weight. Even the 15" steel rims are considerably lighter than the 16" alloy rims, and might save about 8kg to 10kg in unsprung weight...once you multiple the individual weight saving by four. Uniroyal RainExpert 5 205/60R15 91V (Euro label C A 71dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m53b0s412p213006/Uniroyal_Tyres_Car_Uniroyal_RainExpert_5_205_60_R15_91V_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_A_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_71dB Uniroyal RainSport 5 205/55R16 91V (Euro label C A 71dB) https://www.camskill.co.uk/m62b0s291p185913/Uniroyal_Tyres_Car_Uniroyal_RainSport_5_205_55_R16_91V_TL_Fuel_Eff_%3A_C_Wet_Grip%3A_A_NoiseClass%3A_B_Noise%3A_71dB Outside diameter of tyres 205/60R15 627mm (0.8% smaller outside diameter compared to 205/55R16...up to 1.5% difference is often considered insignificant) 205/55R16 631.9mm Another option for 15" alloy or steel rims, are 6Jx15 ET38 5/100 57.1 from the Fabia MK3. Skoda fits 185/60R15 tyres to these Fabia MK3 rims, but bigger tyres such as 205/60R15 would be needed for the Scala. The ET38 offset would be ideal for the Scala, because that's what the 205/55R16 tyres on the Scala normally use, ie. 6Jx16 ET38 5/100 57.1 Skoda 6Jx15 ET38 5/100 57.1 alloy rims (from Fabia MK3) (weighs about 8.3kg each) (3629CZK is about £122) https://eshop.skoda-auto.cz/cs_CZ/alu-kola/c/alloyWheels?q=%3ApriceAsc%3AcarType%3AFabia%2BIII%2B%282014%2B%29%3ArimDiameter%3A15%22&text=#

The front wiper blade set "Bosch A860S" is shown as correct for the Octavia MK3 on the "boschwiperblades.com" website. https://www.boschwiperblades.com/home Are you using the correct adaptor, ie. adapter number 4? You could try measuring them to make sure the wiper blades are the correct length, AP24U is 24" (about 600mm) and AP19U is 19" (about 475mm). Octavia MK3 Bosch AeroTwin A860S front wiper blade set comprises the following two front wiper blades Driver side AP24U (use adapter number 4...shown in the photo below) Passenger side AP19U (use adapter number 4...shown in the photo below)

You are quite right to be cautious. It's possible for paired coil spring compressors to slip round when compressing the spring, so one moment they are 180 degrees apart and the next moment (almost instantaneous) they are next to each other...which is a very dangerous occurrence. The type of "MacPherson strut coil spring compressors" shown in the photo below would prevent that dangerous kind of slippage. However, I'm sure it's still possible to have a very nasty accident if you don't use them correctly. Macpherson Strut Coil Spring Compressor (under £80 on ebay) https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/284354587575

My favourite coil spring compressors for MacPherson struts are these Draper ones. Notice that they use a much superior acme thread, with one end of the rod having a left hand thread and the other end having a right hand thread. However, you can get hydraulic floor standing coil spring compressors that would make the job even easier. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/185735222016 https://www.machinemart.co.uk/p/draper-n144-250mm-pair-coil-spring-compressors/

The front springs are the same for both the hatchback and estate. It's the rear springs that will be a little stiffer on the estate compared to the hatchback, because most of the extra weight that an estate might carry is over the rear axle. New OE quality KYB 1K0411105AQ front springs are available on ebay for less than £22 each, and less than £28 each for Kilen. The average service life of new OE quality springs will be a lot more than old OE springs. The white build code sticker/label in the spare wheel well area might only have around 40 of the build codes. This is just a small fraction of the 180 or so build codes that the car might have.