Hi,

I have a Skoda New Fabia with 1.6 engine. I'm writing because I want to know what is the proper schedule for maintenance/service/oil change.

Currently I have taken my car for checkup on 2.500km, 5000km, 10000km (These were free checkups) but also for 12500km. On everyone of these checkup they have changed the oil, and the last time they put a 10w40 Plus motor oil on it and told me I have to take it again at 17500km, which is in a few days.

Reading through the owners manual i noticed that the car shouldn't have such regular checkups/oil changes. It says that the oil should be changed every 15000km (1year). Every time it goes to the shop it's about 60-120 USD and it includes something like 'CARTRIDGE 15.65' and 'ELECTRONIC CHECK 13.96', I know/think the 'electronic check' is when they plug a computer and run some tests, but what is the cartridge?

This is in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Are we being ripped off by the dealer or is this the usual service/maintenance schedule.

PS: Here in Guayaquil we have a very warm and humid weather, so take that into account?

Hi,

I have a Skoda New Fabia with 1.6 engine. I'm writing because I want to know what is the proper schedule for maintenance/service/oil change.

Currently I have taken my car for checkup on 2.500km, 5000km, 10000km (These were free checkups) but also for 12500km. On everyone of these checkup they have changed the oil, and the last time they put a 10w40 Plus motor oil on it and told me I have to take it again at 17500km, which is in a few days.

Reading through the owners manual i noticed that the car shouldn't have such regular checkups/oil changes. It says that the oil should be changed every 15000km (1year). Every time it goes to the shop it's about 60-120 USD and it includes something like 'CARTRIDGE 15.65' and 'ELECTRONIC CHECK 13.96', I know/think the 'electronic check' is when they plug a computer and run some tests, but what is the cartridge?

This is in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Are we being ripped off by the dealer or is this the usual service/maintenance schedule.

PS: Here in Guayaquil we have a very warm and humid weather, so take that into account?

The cartridge is probably terminology for the oil filter, and it's essential that it is changed. In some climates (probably including Ecuador) the oil service interval should be shortened. I pay £99 here for a oil service so 120USD could be about right

Mario, yes...the oil should be changed a bit more often in Ecuador as Skodayouth says. I'm not sure how often though. Your manual may give you more information or speak to Skoda headquarters for confirmation of the interval most recommended. Again as Skodayouth says the cartridge is your oil filter. Let us all know what you find out please. Good luck.

This is in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Are we being ripped off by the dealer or is this the usual service/maintenance schedule.

PS: Here in Guayaquil we have a very warm and humid weather, so take that into account?

Yes you are being ripped off! In Europe, the oil change interval (on fixed interval servicing) is every 10,000 miles / 1 year (30,000km / 1 year) whichever comes first.

Even taking into account your climate conditions and inferior oil, I cant see your car requiring an oil change more often than 15,000 km.

In dusty/arid conditions e.g. desert - it is recommended to change air filters more often.

Actually in hot climates, I would say that oil changes may even be required less often.

Edited 14 February, 201016 yr by xman