I have now entered the land of Skoda. In June of this year I bought a 2012 Mk2 Octavia Estate TDI 2 litre with just 40k miles on the clock. It has only had 2 previous owners, the first it would seem for less than 2 years.
All has been good up to now.
I had the cambelt and water pump changed as soon as I got it, as although it came with full service history there was no record of this ever being done, so I played safe as it is 9 years old - before setting off to Cornwall for a weeks break away.
Whilst away the engine light came on!! I got it checked out, and found that the EGR was sticking. Remedied by repeated actions with laptop computer, aerosol intake cleaners and some fuel additive.
Hoping for some joyful motoring in the future.