Went to replace thermostat on my 1.6tdi but the part Skoda advised i needed was the wrong type, i have a Geiger colling system, not a Joop one, a OEM thermostat is £70 a pattern Vernet one, who apparently make 'stats for Skoda, is around £20.

anyone got experience of either? its a bitch to get at, throttle body has to come off, so its not a job i want to do again.

Have you tried putting your VIN into Skoda-parts.com ?
I've found their catalogue to be pretty accurate

9 hours ago, SpaceWalrus said:

Have you tried putting your VIN into Skoda-parts.com ?
I've found their catalogue to be pretty accurate

Yes thats where i saw i can get a Vernet one for 15 euros or a Skoda one for 65 euros.... there are 2 different types of thermostat, dependent on joop or Geiger cooling systems, Skoda UK told me i either need a joop one or a complete housing (major job to fit)

Turns out VIN number wont tell you which... only a physical look.

I just wanted to know if anyone has experience of non OEM thermostats such as the Vernet one?

Please don't cheapen out on import things like thermostats. It might be expensive, but the VAG part will be better quality and save your engine from overheating.

Edited 6 February6 Feb by varaderoguy

Oh don't worry, i was asking because the VAG one says "Made in France" on the label and Vernet by Calorstat is the only manufacturer of car thermostats in France....

I suspect they are one in the same thing! but considering the work involved in getting the old one out, it's not worth the risk to save £40

Edited 6 February6 Feb by adg1