Hi everyone - 

 

We've decided on a Superb estate as our next family car.  We have around £22k total to spend. We've narrowed it down to two cars available in the local-ish area and I was hoping to get some advice and opinions from Skoda experts on the options.

 

Option 1

 

Option 2

 

Living in a hilly, exposed area that's prone to snow, the 4x4 of option 2 really appeals, as does the heated windscreen. I also like the idea of the fancy L&K spec (although remain to be convinced on the brownish leather...)

 

However, although the extra 6k mileage compared to Option1 isn't a deal-breaker (on a diesel we're going to run for 100k miles it's nothing really), and the spec is slightly higher (L&K v Executive) it's obviously three years older so I'm wondering what this means in terms of the onboard tech? Is the software, computer systems etc going to feel outdated? 

 

Physical buttons vs touchscreen on the newer model?

Any opinions on the auto vs manual? Presumably the auto will have better residuals?

Anything else we should think about/ask before making a decision?

 

Thanks in advance!

Welcome.

 

Chalk & Cheese there.

Brown Leather comfort, auto & AWD, lovely and a little more in servicing cost.

 

As to residuals,  how long are you keeping them for?

 

First thing to ask about the L&K if there is a FMDSH is, has the Haldex been serviced.

It is a 3 year item or sooner. 

Looks like it could be new discs on it which is not a bad thing.

 

so basically,

What servicing have they had in the first 3 years and since?

Has the Brake Fluid been changed or have they just had basic Oil & Filter & Inspection servicing?

 

 

Edited 27 October, 20214 yr by roottoot

So your choice is a 2 year old manual vs a 5 year old auto L&K spec.

 

The L&K spec is lovely, but the vast number of features and gadgets mean that if anything fails or breaks down, there is a lot to potentially go wrong.  It will also cost more to service properly.    You are unlikely to miss any gadgets you have never had, so don’t get blinded by long list of features (some of which you may never use).   If keeping car a long time remember it is just more that can go wrong.

 

The emissions spec might be different, both will be versions of euro6, but later one might have extra equipment (as emissions got tightened over time). A lot of this newer equipment does not like lots of short local journeys and you need to be doing a journey of 45+ minutes regularly to get sufficiently warmed through for complete diesel particulate filter regeneration to complete otherwise will clog up filter with ash.   I would be wary of why someone chose a diesel to do only 6k miles each year (29k miles in 5 years).

 

The 4x4 system will help you when slippery, but you are looking at a big heavy Diesel engine providing deadweight over front driving wheels, so your traction will depend on friction with road surface.   If you think about it, you will realise if the boot is empty the back of car is much lighter so extra traction from having rear wheels driven as well, is lot less than 100% gain.   You would be much better spending a few hundred pounds and getting winter wheels and good winter tyres than choosing the 4x4 (and the 2 wheel drive on winter tyres will get up a snowy or icy slope better than a 4x4 on summer tyres).

 

At 5 years old, there may be lots of parts due (or overdue) for servicing or replacement  (eg was Haldex filter in 4x4 cleaned).  Unless you have evidence from service record, I would treat with caution, or insist on all the extra work being done.  You don’t want to spend >£20k only to find need to change brake pads in few months etc.

 

The auto is of course much more relaxing to drive than having to change gears manually. If you currently have an auto you won’t want to go back to manual, but if you drive a manual now, then might be another thing that you won’t miss as have never had.

 

If it was me choosing, I would get the much newer one unless there is something that is essential that only the 5 year L&K has.

 

Edited 28 October, 20214 yr by SurreyJohn

Out of those 2 I'd be looking at the fwd one. The technology in either car should be the same as far as features. The l&k model may have a few more gadgets but the exec spec is really good anyway. 23k miles in 2 years Vs 29k in 6? Younger car has definitely been driven properly. Older car car may have been a long trip tool only but it's not worth the risk in my opinion.

Just to throw one in the mix how about a Sportline line, for me the best looking Superb, kit level between an SEL and L&K, lovely alcantara interior. Great car.

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202109287888665?atmobcid=soc3

 

 

Edited 28 October, 20214 yr by yesman

Just used the MOT checker on the L&K, appears it only did 365miles in year to October 2020, then did just 5k miles.

 

Taking a punt here that owner was ill, or died which explains lack of use.  But might have caused it to have skipped some servicing.  Unlikely anyone wanted to pay for a full 4 year service for just 365 miles use.

 

 

Be aware that the 2 services for £79 with the finance is just a oil and filter inspection service and one with Extended Scope.  Still much cheapness but.   In the General Automotive Chat section a member seemed surprised that other stuff like spark plugs is extra cost.    But then they had stuff done that they were not asked if they wanted.   So basically with the L&K the DSG oil change is due in 10,000 miles. £215 at main dealers.   As to stuff not to manufacturer's recommendations now, they should do those to have the warranty valid.  They often do not though.   If you own a car and not they might say a warranty is voided. 

Hi everyone - 

 

Thanks so much for all of you comments, it's really useful. We have decided not to pursue the L&K 4x4 (Option 2) and are going to stick with the newer model (Option 1).

 

So, next question - given the car isn't yet three years old and has only done 23k miles, what servicing and maintenance can we reasonably expect to have been done, or ask for as part of the deal? Looking at the grid helpfully provided by roottoot it seems nothing is actually due yet, however, is there an argument for asking for things to sweeten the deal...?!

 

Thanks again in advance - this really is great advice.

It might have been on variable / Flexible servicing so since built and had the PDI it might have had 1 Oil & Filter Service Only. 

24 months / 18,000-20,000 miles.

 

It might have had 2 if on Fixed Service Interval, @ 9,400 miles / 372 days or sooner.

 

It might have had a Pollen Filter @ 2 years.     

So if it had that then that can be called FMDSH /  or Serviced to Manufacturers Recommendations. 

 

I would want it to have an Oil & Filter Change before delivery, and Extended Scope action if a Main Dealer is doing it, even a Brake Fluid Change. 

Any warranty work or Service Campaign / TPI's carried out. 

 

Main Dealers tell Customers a A/C service is due at 2 years so ask them if they are doing one before delivery.

 

 

Edited 28 October, 20214 yr by roottoot

21 minutes ago, roottoot said:

It might have been on variable / Flexible servicing so since built and had the PDI it might have had 1 Oil & Filter Service Only. 

24 months / 18,000-20,000 miles.

 

It might have had 2 if on Fixed Service Interval, @ 9,400 miles / 372 days or sooner.

 

It might have had a Pollen Filter @ 2 years.     

So if it had that then that can be called FMDSH /  or Serviced to Manufacturers Recommendations. 

 

I would want it to have an Oil & Filter Change before delivery, and Extended Scope action if a Main Dealer is doing it, even a Brake Fluid Change. 

Any warranty work or Service Campaign / TPI's carried out. 

 

Main Dealers tell Customers a A/C service is due at 2 years so ask them if they are doing one before delivery.

 

 

This is great, thank you. I have emailed the garage asking whether this has been done and whether they can carry it out ahead of purchase if not. They're not actually a Skoda garage, so maybe they won't, but still worth asking!

 

If you want a Skoda Extended / Approved Warranty after the Manufacturers Warranty expires & after what ever warranty you get with the car expires then you maybe want it serviced to the Manufacturers Recommendations.

 

http://insurewithskoda.co.uk/extended-warranty

 

 

So since not at a Skoda Dealership check with Skoda the Service & Warranty history they hold on the car up to now.

1 hour ago, roottoot said:

It might have been on variable / Flexible servicing so since built and had the PDI it might have had 1 Oil & Filter Service Only. 

24 months / 18,000-20,000 miles.

 

It might have had 2 if on Fixed Service Interval, @ 9,400 miles / 372 days or sooner.

 

It might have had a Pollen Filter @ 2 years.     

So if it had that then that can be called FMDSH /  or Serviced to Manufacturers Recommendations. 

 

I would want it to have an Oil & Filter Change before delivery, and Extended Scope action if a Main Dealer is doing it, even a Brake Fluid Change. 

Any warranty work or Service Campaign / TPI's carried out. 

 

Main Dealers tell Customers a A/C service is due at 2 years so ask them if they are doing one before delivery.

 

 

hi root you seem to know this subject inside out, my cars only a 1.5 years old so what will the dealership want to try and charge me for with my up and coming service, i have paid in advance for 2 oil changes and it has had a dealership oil change last year, and its only done 11k i have retired so i dont do high miles, do you have to get some of those items done that you mention so to keep the warranty all legit.

@paddywack1878

How much did you pay, and is this a Skoda UK offer as part of a new car purchase / finance agreement?

 

Why do they want to charge for this next Service if you paid for 2 Oil & Inspection Services?

What is the T&c's of the Services.

2 Services on Fixed Interval Servicing? 

 

The Pollen filter could be an extra cost and you can say no to that.    Easy to do your self.  maybe just vacuum filter & space and clean / wash the area where it is fitted.

 

..

OT.....................................................................................................................................

The OP here is right, not enough clarity on what the deal includes /involves.

Then Dealership being a chancer.

http://briskoda.net/forums/topic/498122-two-services-for-£79  This was a Skoda Approved Used Car agreement. 

 

Edited 28 October, 20214 yr by roottoot

yes it was a koda approved  finance service plan, and it included 1 x oil service change and 1 x oil and inspection scope what ever that is,  that last service was on 23/12/2020....i have the print out of RRG bolton,and the warranty runs out on 12/03/23, I haven't rang them yet i have a good few weeks before its due, so will they just do my free one and not badger me for anything else or will that all start when it come up to 3 years?

Make sure that they understand when you book and when the car is handed in and the keys that it is the Oil & Inspection Service.

'Extended Scope' is @ 3 years / 30,000 miles, but it is a tech on the car anyway only 2 years old and not near the miles for extended scope.

But the deal is done.

 

If you do not want a £35 Pollen Filter than say so and have the person write that on the Work Sheet,  if they offer the AC Service, Fuel Treatment, Engine Flush and all the other Up-selling 'Just say no'. 

Have it written down, 

  Pre Paid Service Plan only and no extras without permission.    If they want to top up anything then that is covered under 'Extended Scope',  so should not be extra.

 

If you do not want a Free Wash & Vacuum then have that written down.   Be sure there is a Body & Glass Inspection and that is put on the system. (Paint / Corrosion Warranty.)

 

THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE TAKING OFF THE WHEELS FOR THE 'EXTENDED SCOPE'

so if you want wheels tyres changed front to rear, rear to front they could do that 'AT NO CHARGE'.  

 

 

Edited 28 October, 20214 yr by roottoot

Thanks for this info, so i wont need the extended scope till next year then is that what you are saying, but just an oil change for this service?

You do not need the extended scope until next year but the Plan has it as at the 2nd Service. 

The car could be on a Variable Service Interval but that would have needed set at the last service.

 

At 3 year i would be just getting any warranty work done before it expires if there is anything because Main Dealer Servicing is a a ridiculous cost now.

Especially if doing Low annual mileage where a good Independent can actually do what is needed.

Thanks for all the help mate, on a side note the car hasn't missed a beat the only thing is the battery is always showing 12.3 or there  about volts, so i had it tested  by  a battery specialist and he said its showing normal even though i know a decent battery wants to be around 12.6 ish volts, so i was going to try and get a new one off them even if i have to pay towards it these EFB batteries are around 400 quid.

The heated screen alone would swing it for me 

Battery sounds fine, ready to get some regen as you reduce speed once the car is moving.

Pity the issue can be that the cars need not sit long before the battery struggle or fails to start them.   

4 minutes ago, paddywack1878 said:

Thanks for all the help mate, on a side note the car hasn't missed a beat the only thing is the battery is always showing 12.3 or there  about volts, so i had it tested  by  a battery specialist and he said its showing normal even though i know a decent battery wants to be around 12.6 ish volts, so i was going to try and get a new one off them even if i have to pay towards it these EFB batteries are around 400 quid.

Normal for a battery, the charging system will only maintain around 80% charge 

3 minutes ago, roottoot said:

Battery sounds fine, ready to get some regen as you reduce speed once the car is moving.

Pity the issue can be that the cars need not sit long before the battery struggle or fails to start them.   

i never leave it more than 3 days, and when i do get in its always a 40 minute journey. and ive bought a smart charger for the winter.

4 minutes ago, patrolman said:

Normal for a battery, the charging system will only maintain around 80% charge 

but that is just EFB and the other one but normal 12v batteries are not in a good way when the measure  just over 12v, that's my experience in 40 years of driving and buying loads of the buggers.

22 minutes ago, paddywack1878 said:

but that is just EFB and the other one but normal 12v batteries are not in a good way when the measure  just over 12v, that's my experience in 40 years of driving and buying loads of the buggers.

About the same time in vehicle electrical systems and diagnostics 

12.2 volts is the minimum requirement to test a battery it’s still deemed serviceable but not fully charged (12.8v) 

5 hours ago, Merryclough said:

Thanks so much for all of you comments, it's really useful. We have decided not to pursue the L&K 4x4 (Option 2) and are going to stick with the newer model (Option 1).

I think that's a good decision. I have an L&K myself and I love it but the brown leather of that example would not appeal to me either and that particular SE L Exec looks to be a lovely spec, with a very nice colour, the more modern version of the Columbus touch screen, the same auto-dipping headlights as the L&K and the virtual cockpit display.

 

The noticeable things it looks to be lacking vs the L&K would be the heated windscreen as you said, heated rear seats, possibly also heated steering wheel, the nicer (IMHO) "Pegasus" alloys and the self-parking feature (which is very cool but TBH I have only ever used it as a party trick because I find it fiddly to use and slower than parking it myself using the excellent parking sensors, which the SE L Exec also has). And less power of course - 150 vs 190.

 

I think it might also be lacking the personalised interior lighting options with the coloured LED strips, but I believe the 2016 L&K would only have 3 colour options anyway (vs the whole rainbow of colours to choose from in the later models), and again it is fun for a party trick but hardly essential.

 

I did drive a SE L Exec before buying my L&K and I found the L&K seats to be that little bit nicer (but not in brown for me as I said!), although the one you are looking at looks to have nicer seats than the one I drove (very similar to my L&K in fact). That was a 2017 model, so maybe they got improved with the minor changes that came in around 2017-18.

 

Other desirable optional extra features that you will see quite commonly on some L&Ks are the air-conditioned seats, 19 inch alloys, panoramic sunroof, DSG shifters on the steering wheel, reversing camera and virtual pedal (to open and close the rear hatch by waving your foot under the bumper). It is rare to see all of them in the same vehicle, but the one you were looking at did not seem to have any of them, so you are comparing a newer high-spec SE L Exec with a (relatively) low spec older L&K.