Our (my mother's) 2003 Fabia 1.9tdi is coming to the end, we are wanting a replacement. She wants a bigger boot, but still a small car, a Roomster seams to meet the criteria. We have decided to look for a 1.6 CR105, probably a lowish mileage later model.. So Basically what should I look for when buying one (ie common problems)?

 

Am I correct in saying the 1.6 CR in the Roomster is the controversial VW engine that is subject to the fix? If so how do I find out if the car has had this fix done or not?

Low mileage could indicate DPF or EGR problems. It is generally accepted that 15k miles per year is a minimum for the diesel ones. Yes the engine is subject to the VW fix but it's not compulsory. I have taken the decision not to have mine done, car is running well at 110k miles. Some people have reported problems after the fix, Why take the chance?

The most important thing in my opinion is regular oil changes using the correct grade oil.

Hi Jim,

Some friends of mine have just traded in their 11-plate 1.6tdi CR Roomster for a 15-plate 1.2Tsi Yeti, the Roomy was leaking fuel from an injector into the sump, raising the oil level.

And had had EGR issues.  I think they may have driven it far too gently!  And not used a fuel-system additive like the Millers I've been using in my diesels since 1988.

Would agree about not getting the "FIX" done btw.

Thankfully my old-tech 1.9tdi PD (Pumpe Duse) although gruff in comparison with the Common Rail engines, doesn't have a DPF and isn't subject to "THE FIX" !

There's the newer-model Fabia Estates to consider.......

The 1.6TDi is a superb engine with a couple of provisos:

1. Don't buy one that has had the "fix"!  My guess (and it is a guess) would be that if you are buying from a dealer then it WILL have had the fix done.  Looking from their point of view if you buy a +3yr old used car from them that has already had the "fix" then they only give a 6 month warranty.  If you take your car to them to do the "fix" then that work carries a warranty that covers various parts for 2yrs.  No brainer for them I think!
   To determine whether or not the fix has been applied a few thoughts:
   Contact your nearest dealer with the reg number and ask - the official name is "EA189 Service Action". 
   I have a vague recollection that a sticker is applied to the big label on the boot floor but I'm not 100% sure on that, 
   There is also this website, but you need the VIN:
   http://www.skoda.co.uk/owners/dieselinfo/check-your-vehicle/
   I have not had the fix and when I entered my VIN it came up with "A service action is available for your vehicle. The EA 189 diesel engine in your vehicle with the Vehicle Identification Number you entered is affected by the EA 189 NOx emissions issue."  I guess that if the fix has been done a different message appears.
    
2. DPF diesels are most definitely NOT suitable for pootling around town, shopping trips, doing a couple of thousand miles per year.  The DPF on mine normally regenerates every 250-350 miles.  The shorter the journeys the shorter the gap between regenerations: .  One of the effects of the "fix" is more soot production leading to more frequent regeneration so that is a double whammy.  Unless your mother is doing 50+ mile journeys at least 3 or 4 times per month I would steer well clear and go for the 1.2 TSi 

Edited 16 June, 20188 yr by eccleshill