Hi all, Newby to the forum.

We're currently looking for a 2nd hand Octavia Scout Diesel (which I understand are pretty hard to get hold of!). Just wondered what sort of problems / issues I should be looking out for when viewing cars (other than cam belt replacement etc).

Our budget is probably only going to stretch to earlier (probably 2007) model or ones with higher mileage - is this a problem? All advice gratefully received.

The only real mechanical difference between Scout and non-Scout models is the Haldex Four Wheel Drive System which is as good as bullet proof.

I think the system needs and oil change every four years, other than that no issues.

So in terms of what to look for - just the usual 2.0 TDi 140 PD VAG mechanicals which are pretty common across the Octavia range. Plenty of threads on here about turbo problems, water pump problems air conditioning compressor failures etc. all of which incidentally should not put you off what is a fantastic car with excellent ability and reliability.

One issue to look for on older cars is the alloy wheels. They have a unique polished finish which is susceptible to delamination / corrosion - again do a search in the Octavia II forum and you'll find plenty of information.

Keep us updated with your search. I have a 2008 model for the wife and am considering another one for me - but as another thread currently running mentions they ain't common and they ain't as cheap as they used to be - good luck!

Hi all, Newby to the forum.

We're currently looking for a 2nd hand Octavia Scout Diesel (which I understand are pretty hard to get hold of!). Just wondered what sort of problems / issues I should be looking out for when viewing cars (other than cam belt replacement etc).

Our budget is probably only going to stretch to earlier (probably 2007) model or ones with higher mileage - is this a problem? All advice gratefully received.

Listen out for a whiring mechanical noise when turning the steering wheel - there was a steering rack recall for 2007 models & across the Golf MKV platform, I had mine done but there maybe some still out there. This 'grating' noise is obvious when moving slowly & steering left.

I would also advice to look out for the polished wheel corrosion issues as Silvers post above - I had one replaced under warranty as it got that bad, I now have 2 others that have this problem but it's out of warranty now.

Edited 11 September, 201015 yr by wilkopilko

What have we done??? We saw a 97 model earlier - 69K but with full main dealer service history. Lovely in storm blue metallic. Only issue was a couple of the alloys had corroded as described above, but dealer agreed to contribute to wheel refurb.

What can I say... we've only gone and bought it... :S We paid 9.5K which I thought was pretty fair.

Lovely car - can't wait to pick it up now.

What have we done??? We saw a 97 model earlier - 69K but with full main dealer service history. Lovely in storm blue metallic. Only issue was a couple of the alloys had corroded as described above, but dealer agreed to contribute to wheel refurb.

What can I say... we've only gone and bought it... :S We paid 9.5K which I thought was pretty fair.

Lovely car - can't wait to pick it up now.

Nice one Jon - you've just got yourself a cracking motor.

I still can't think of anything better as an all-round package & am now even considering a 2nd one in the new year.

There simply brilliant, what more can I say!

Cheers mate. And thanks for the advice guys - knowing it was a known issue with the alloys made negotiating a bit easier. Unfortunately we're off on hols so won't be taking delivery for a few weeks, but will post a report on here as soon as I can afterwards.