Agh!!! After today's "fun", I have now noticed the blimming temp gauge doesn't ride above 70 when I'm driving.  It will go to 90 if I am stationary.  I had the cambelt, etc replaced July '12.  Surely the thermostat can't have died already???  I changed the CTS last Dec too.

With my breather pipe shenanigans, is there I chance I may have "knocked" something?? I haven't got a scooby what, but it seems too much of a coincidence!! These faults are like buses!!! It's been quite a reliable motor since Nov 2007

When was the stat last changed & was it a genuine one?

I assumed it was done as part of the cam belt/water pump change.  Anyway are the Meyle ones any kop??

They never are usually unless specified.  I got a 'Topran' german one from GSF which lasted all of 6 months and its a bugger to change.  Id bite the bullet and get one from a dealer.

I assumed it was done as part of the cam belt/water pump change. Anyway are the Meyle ones any kop??

Nah don't normally change the stat with a cambelt and water pump change. So might be original one.

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Cheers guys.

My engine light has just popped on after 120ish miles. Is this normal for a thermostat fault? (I away from my vag com for a few days) or is there a chance the temp sensor may have gone as well?? The car drives fine (similar to when the temp sensor failed last year)

If the temperature is dropping on the move and rising when sat in traffic its the thermostat.  Did you fit a temp sensor from Skoda or a motor factor/GSF.  Concensus is the aftermarket ones arent that great.

It was "oem" from somewhere online. It just seems weird that this would go at the same time. I am thinking that because the engine is running cold it's thrown up a code.

I've had the same prob temp real low on motorways I had code 17704 so changed thermostate and all is good again

I have sacrificed my knuckles to the thermostat god. Bloody hell that was a 'mare!!!

Fiddly job, need some long extension bars!

Aye and patience!! I found an a magnetic tool was best for getting the lower bolt in. And am Allen key was best for tightening it.