There seem to be significant electrical weaknesses in the early Fabia which as far as I can tell were addressed by Skoda by upgrades/changes to some components. If you look at the polo or the Ibiza forums the problems owners of circa 2000 cars ask about have a different emphasis.

It seems the steering position sensor was a weak point and possibly the central convenience module ( by the way some failures seem to cause some very odd consequences).

Would there be any point in using later steering angle sensor and or later convenience module? Would this reduce the electrical problems? If so what newer parts could be usefully (and practically) substituted. Suggested part numbers if any.

VCDS reads a number of faults in both the above on my 2001 fabia so I am going to be buying a new convenience module at least.

Nigel

I have a 2001 1.4 8v in Classic trim, the things that tend to need replacing are the thermostat (believe it's been revised, buy the full stat/body kit as it's not much more than just either individual part), the coolant temp sensor (not sure this is revised but it's cheap and easy to fit) and the angle sensor, this has been revised to a metal part rather than metal and plastic, in total VAG supply 4 versions (2 RHD, 2 LHD) of this sensor so you need the correct version, the part number that's commonly referred to wasn't suitable for my car, either version is £98 after rebate from Rainworth, my local dealer wanted more and no mention of a rebate but check the fuse/earth/PAS fluid/and battery/alternator before you spend the money on an angle sensor. As for the comfort module from memory it's above the OBD port, if you fit the later version it allows retrofit for central locking etc, they're circa £30 upwards on ebay, not sure what the rrp is but i've not found the need to change it yet.

If you do change the angle sensor then check out your drive shaft seals, i've got a set to do when I can be bothered and obviously that's going to lead to a gearbox fluid change but i'd rather that than let the gearbox fluid continue to drain.