Hi everyone,

I recently took a leap of faith and bought a 2020 Škoda Octavia SE First Edition with 30k miles, a clean MOT, and a full service history. Coming from a Toyota, I was hesitant due to the known infotainment issues discussed here for the MK4, but I hoped that the 1969 update would resolve these (I got the car with 1869, dealer assuring this was stable and no updates were available). Unfortunately, just two days into ownership, I’m facing several problems:

    1.    Braking Shudder: The car shudders when braking from any speed. This is particularly concerning and makes me question the thoroughness of the ‘150 point approved inspection’ it supposedly passed just days before. 
    2.    Infotainment SOS Alert: infamous pop pop SOS
    3.    Cannot activate Cruise Control: The cruise control can’t be activated at all, another known issue requiring some firmware update.

 

I’ve booked an inspection with Marshall in my local area instead of returning to Milton Keynes where I bought the car. The distance simply makes it impractical.

Given these issues, particularly the braking problem, I’m seriously considering rejecting the car given that my confidence in it is already shaky. I admit, I could have been more thorough during the test drive, but I trusted the Approved used certification process.

Would appreciate any advice from the community here. I know people have faced similar issues, if you guys could provide some insights into this, would really be grateful. 

Thanks in advance!

Hello Sam, welcome to the forum.

Hmmm, a rare case of dealer speak with forked tongue!

Was the brake shudder noticeable on the test drive - if so, what did the sales rep. say about it? Is there any unusual associated noise when braking?

Is there a ABS fault indicator light lit on the panel?

14 minutes ago, Warrior193 said:

Hello Sam, welcome to the forum.

Hmmm, a rare case of dealer speak with forked tongue!

Was the brake shudder noticeable on the test drive - if so, what did the sales rep. say about it? Is there any unusual associated noise when braking?

Is there a ABS fault indicator light lit on the panel?

Thanks for the reply. Brake shudder wasn’t noticeable on the test drive. It was only evident on a longer drive back from Milton Keynes. I flagged it as soon as possible. There is some squealing noise as well (only noticeable if I turn the music off fully), No ABS light on, also no brake pad deposit on the disc. 
 

Regarding the dealer, he was trying to get me on to a higher rate PCP despite the approved used event going on. I gave him the benefit of doubt since he was just started a few months before, but now makes me think he knew the issues beforehand too. How was the inspection report clean if the firmware and infotainment needs updating and also has shoddy brakes?
 

I love the car in general but I don’t want be bothered dealing with unreliable parts on a regular basis if the current situation is anything to go by. 

47 minutes ago, sam8520 said:

Hi everyone,

I recently took a leap of faith and bought a 2020 Škoda Octavia SE First Edition with 30k miles, a clean MOT, and a full service history. Coming from a Toyota, I was hesitant due to the known infotainment issues discussed here for the MK4, but I hoped that the 1969 update would resolve these (I got the car with 1869, dealer assuring this was stable and no updates were available). Unfortunately, just two days into ownership, I’m facing several problems:

    1.    Braking Shudder: The car shudders when braking from any speed. This is particularly concerning and makes me question the thoroughness of the ‘150 point approved inspection’ it supposedly passed just days before. 
    2.    Infotainment SOS Alert: infamous pop pop SOS
    3.    Cannot activate Cruise Control: The cruise control can’t be activated at all, another known issue requiring some firmware update.

 

I’ve booked an inspection with Marshall in my local area instead of returning to Milton Keynes where I bought the car. The distance simply makes it impractical.

Given these issues, particularly the braking problem, I’m seriously considering rejecting the car given that my confidence in it is already shaky. I admit, I could have been more thorough during the test drive, but I trusted the Approved used certification process.

Would appreciate any advice from the community here. I know people have faced similar issues, if you guys could provide some insights into this, would really be grateful. 

Thanks in advance!

Brake shudder I can't comment on, but points 2 and 3 should all be fixable through software and firmware updates.  The Telematics module will need a firmware update which should solve the SOS / Pop Pop issue and the same for Cruise control.  Also, insist the dealer update you to at least infotainment software version 1941 if not the very latest 1969 version which has only been available for a few weeks.  Do not accept the line "We can't do that, but it will you'll get it OTA". They can and they should.

I have an SEL Estate First Edition and it's good now.  When I first got it the SOS module would crash almost every journey, usually accompanied by Pop Pop sound, which would also affect the Infotainment software, specifically Sat Nav position.  Purchased mine in October 2023 Skoda Approved but, like many, despite the promise that the software would be all updated it came with an older version that was very unstable.  Had to take it to my local Skoda dealer to get the Telematics module firmware updated as well as the Infotainment system software.  My advice, write down a list of issues you are experiencing and what resolutions you expect so there are no "misunderstandings", try to talk directly with the Master Technician and confirm on the phone, before collection, precisely what they have done (the service front desk are often clueless so speak with the Master Tech).  Read through the forum, I posted a pdf of a Skoda-issued TPI document (basically a document that details symptoms and what the workshop should do to resolve them) which you could print out and refer to.

Edited 21 April, 20242 yr by spcdust

a dealers own inspection is worthless. If you  have any doubts after checking a car yourself get an independent inspection.

The SOS error is one of those things. I get it semi regularly on my superb at start up but the light by the button remains green at all times so as far as I'm concerned its a transient initialisation error and hardly worth worrying about.

Cruise Control:  leaving aside any "known firmware issues" , you are turning it on properly aren't you?
 

 

6 minutes ago, spcdust said:

Brake shudder I can't comment on, but points 2 and 3 should all be fixable through software and firmware updates.  The Telematics module will need a firmware update which should solve the SOS / Pop Pop issue and the same for Cruise control.  Also, insist the dealer update you to at least infotainment software version 1941 if not the very latest 1969 version which has only been available for a few qweeks.  Do not accept the line "We can't do that, but it will you'll get it OTA". They can and they should.

I have an SEL Estate First Edition and it's good - although it took a visit to my Skoda dealership (not the selling dealer) to get issues sorted.  Purchased mine in October 2023 Skoda Approved but, like many, despite the promise that the software would be all updated it came with an older version that was very unstable.  Had to take it to my local Skoda dealer to get the Telematics module firmware updated as well as the Infotainment system software.  My advice, write down a list of issues you are experiencing and what resolutions you expect so there are no "misunderstandings", try to talk directly with the Master Technician and confirm on the phone, before collection, precisely what they have done (the service front desk are often clueless so speak with the Master Tech).  Read through the forum, I posted a pdf of a Skoda-issued TPI document (basically a document that details symptoms and what the workshop should do to resolve them) which you could print out and refer to.

Thanks for the reply. I’ll go in on Tuesday and get it updated, the local Marshall seems to be much more cooperative than the one I bought from.  
I have started writing down the issues in detail, I’ll also note the expected resolution from the document. 

39 minutes ago, sam8520 said:

..... I’m seriously considering rejecting the car given that my confidence in it is already shaky.

 

...... but I trusted the Approved used certification process.

 

I think you're right in your considerations.  Perhaps give them a chance to remedy the issues, but certainly make your dissatisfaction known.

 

You won't be the first, nor last, to put faith in the Approved used flag of 'trust us-it's great'.

 

22 minutes ago, Warrior193 said:

Hmmm, a rare case of dealer speak with forked tongue!

 

Surely not! 

 

I can see brake shudder not showing itself on a short test drive.  Hopefully it'll be acknowledged, and remedial work undertaken.  I personally wouldn't stand any messing around though - keep rejection in mind.

 

Gaz

Worth noting, The Skoda Approved Used Car warranty excludes software/firmware updates - I find this laughable as modern cars revolve around software and module firmware.  You should be okay as these should have been done as part of the pre-sales checks and also you are experiencing specific issues but worth knowing for the future if a workshop throws that back at you/

Edited 21 April, 20242 yr by spcdust

3 minutes ago, Winston_Woof said:

a dealers own inspection is worthless. If you  have any doubts after checking a car yourself get an independent inspection.

The SOS error is one of those things. I get it semi regularly on my superb at start up but the light by the button remains green at all times so as far as I'm concerned its a transient initialisation error and hardly worth worrying about.

Cruise Control:  leaving aside any "known firmware issues" , you are turning it on properly aren't you?
 

 

I believed their inspection given the age and mileage, but I will now get it checked holistically.

 

Yes, I saw that forum to verify in case I missed something. Also consulted the manual. I checked it at higher speeds and still nothing. 

If the brake issue is sorted and they apply the right software updates they are excellent cars and a pleasure to drive.  Skoda / VAG dropped the ball initially releasing shoddy unstable software which, after an extended time, they have now fixed via updates.  What it does mean is there are a lot of cars still out there with unstable versions of the software that need updating.

6 minutes ago, Gaz said:

I think you're right in your considerations.  Perhaps give them a chance to remedy the issues, but certainly make your dissatisfaction known.

 

You won't be the first, nor last, to put faith in the Approved used flag of 'trust us-it's great'.

 

After reading the experiences in this forum, I would take an inordinate amount to research the car model and engine and trim if (at all!) buying a VAG car again. 

 

8 minutes ago, Gaz said:

Surely not! 

 

I can see brake shudder not showing itself on a short test drive.  Hopefully it'll be acknowledged, and remedial work undertaken.  I personally wouldn't stand any messing around though - keep rejection in mind.

It is just a very souring experience when the car is basically perfect on other counts. The build is solid and features even on the SE trim are amazing. My previous Auris was not a great joy to drive but it was practically faultless even after 140k miles. 

5 minutes ago, spcdust said:

If the brake issue is sorted and they apply the right software updates they are excellent cars and a pleasure to drive.  Skoda / VAG dropped the ball initially releasing shoddy unstable software which, after an extended time, they have now fixed via updates.  What it does mean is there are a lot of cars still out there with unstable versions of the software that need updating.

Agreed, there are countless posts I’ve seen with people extremely satisfied after the recent updates. I made the decision to buy it also based on the enjoyable drive and efficiency. My worry is for the brake system, if it has gone bust now at such a low mileage, how would it fare in the long term? Some have seen it resurfaced in 2 weeks and some in 18 months, very concerning. 

It's tricky when purchasing a used car - you think you have done all the necessary research but unless you know what specific issues to look for you can easily miss them.

You mention known brake problems on the Mk4 Octavia - I seem to have missed this but interested if you have links to any discussions on this.  Good to have knowledge in case of anything in the future.

Eight years ago now, my then vRS had to have new brake discs at under 18k miles.  It happens, frustrating as that may be.

 

You're still in a position where you should end up with a very good car, that you'll be very happy with 👍

 

Gaz

 

11 minutes ago, spcdust said:

It's tricky when purchasing a used car - you think you have done all the necessary research but unless you know what specific issues to look for you can easily miss them.

 

True, thinking I should’ve listened to What Car? Reliability survey now, lol. 

 

11 minutes ago, spcdust said:

You mention known brake problems on the Mk4 Octavia - I seem to have missed this but interested if you have links to any discussions on this.  Good to have knowledge in case of anything in the future.

sure here’s some posts around the shuddering issue: 

https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/505182-low-mileage-skoda-octavia-hatch-mk4-brake-issues/

https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/501971-brake-juddering/

https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/497435-brake-discs-and-wheel-bearings/
https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/520043-vibrations-getting-worse-106000km/

 

11 minutes ago, Gaz said:

Eight years ago now, my then vRS had to have new brake discs at under 18k miles.  It happens, frustrating as that may be.

 

You're still in a position where you should end up with a very good car, that you'll be very happy with 👍

 

Gaz

 

That’s wonderful and something I needed to hear at this point. Thanks a lot !! 
I’ve heard the MK3 is solid, maybe they should’ve stuck to the same formula until this year’s complete revamp. 

Has the dealer offered a loan vehicle while these issues are being rectified?

6 minutes ago, Warrior193 said:

Has the dealer offered a loan vehicle while these issues are being rectified?

Once I get them to confirm the issues on Tuesday, I will ask for it to be fixed for free and also a courtesy car. I’m not sure how will Marshall deal with it but I’ve heard good things about them from a service perspective. I have shelled out for an extended warranty package, if they’re going to charge me something for any of these ‘already-present’ faults, then I must deem it not fit for purpose and reject. 

IMHO the brake judder is the priority issue to have investigated/checked.

Cruise Control not activating is a nuisance that apparently can be sorted with a software update so a minor issue.

I wouldn't hold your breath on the SOS error, IMHO that just about falls in the " they all do that sir" camp (presuming the light by the call button remains green). You could be chasing in and out on that trying to get a long term fix that isn't intermittent

11 minutes ago, Winston_Woof said:

IMHO the brake judder is the priority issue to have investigated/checked.

Cruise Control not activating is a nuisance that apparently can be sorted with a software update so a minor issue.

I wouldn't hold your breath on the SOS error, IMHO that just about falls in the " they all do that sir" camp (presuming the light by the call button remains green). You could be chasing in and out on that trying to get a long term fix that isn't intermittent

Thanks for the clarity, my train of thought as well. Brake judder is an issue with actual mechanical performance, which is concerning.  I’m not worried about other issues as much, one of the reasons I went ahead with the purchase. The brake issue was only evident as widespread after I faced it myself. 
Also, if they’re adamant there’s no infotainment update, I can do it myself, I have the 1969 file, but I’m not risking bricking or voiding anything especially given the car has been bought just recently. For the firmware they can do it in their own time until it’s resolved. 

Edited 21 April, 20242 yr by sam8520
added software update point

1 hour ago, sam8520 said:

 

True, thinking I should’ve listened to What Car? Reliability survey now, lol. 

 

sure here’s some posts around the shuddering issue: 

https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/505182-low-mileage-skoda-octavia-hatch-mk4-brake-issues/

https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/501971-brake-juddering/

https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/497435-brake-discs-and-wheel-bearings/
https://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/520043-vibrations-getting-worse-106000km/

 

Interesting posts.

Bought mine with 16600 miles on the clock and done approximately 8000 miles and. fingers crossed, no brake issues that I am aware of.

@sam8520 If the dealer deny there are available software updates, direct them to the lead technician at Marshall Letchworth (Mick). He sorted out all the issues on my SEL First Edition. 

If you use the Climate control SYNC feature, check that it retains the setting after turning the car off and on. If you find it doesn't hold, then that module also needs a firmware update. Again, Mick at Marshall Letchworth got that sorted out for me.

13 minutes ago, JamesK said:

@sam8520 If the dealer deny there are available software updates, direct them to the lead technician at Marshall Letchworth (Mick). He sorted out all the issues on my SEL First Edition. 

If you use the Climate control SYNC feature, check that it retains the setting after turning the car off and on. If you find it doesn't hold, then that module also needs a firmware update. Again, Mick at Marshall Letchworth got that sorted out for me.

Ohh that’s pretty useful, really appreciate it!! I’ll let them know if they’re resistant. I haven’t paid attention to the climate setting issue, I’ll check that too. 

I have lost where i have saved the Complete Copy of their list of Checks.   It is a p!th take though.

Someone might have it to post before i find it.

 

The OP should ask for the copy for the vehicle.   & DATA Protection does not stop them giving it.  They can hide the Tech / Fitters name that signed off the car.

 

http://briskoda.net/forums/topic/443226-skoda-approved-multi-point-check/page/2

 

55 minutes ago, Rooted said:

I have lost where i have saved the Complete Copy of their list of Checks.   It is a p!th take though.

Someone might have it to post before i find it.

 

The OP should ask for the copy for the vehicle.   & DATA Protection does not stop them giving it.  They can hide the Tech / Fitters name that signed off the car.

 

http://briskoda.net/forums/topic/443226-skoda-approved-multi-point-check/page/2

 

Thanks for this, just sent in the email to request the multipoint checklist. Some thing like this :https://www.skoda.co.uk/_doc/f34b1953-0f64-43be-8914-258ecdb48f44