Thought I'd post a summary of an issue featured in this months Golf + mag in the Techie letters section. Garages are reporting an increasing number of these engines (found in MkI fabias and Octys) with burnt exhaust valves. Certain versions of this engine are recommended to run of RON98 fuel rather than nats pee (standard RON 95).

It is reckoned that prolonged use of RON 95 fuel is at least contributing to the problem of burnt valves. Pop your fuel filler flap and look at the sticky label. If it reads 98/95 RON, the mag columnist suggests you ought to consider supplementing your car's drinking habit with super unlead.

:iagree: i've seen this happen....

it mostly applies to the 1.6 variant which has a uber high compression ratio of 11.5:1

Yeah this was an issue with SWMBO's 1.4 16v Fabia. Hadn't had it long and noticed it "pinking" under load. Checked, and found out it should run on 98 RON but "can" run on 95 RON. Now only run on 98 RON and no problems like this since!

I wrote the article!

I wrote the article!

You did indeed. I hope I haven't quoted out of context or the like! Anyhow, you'll be glad to see that your words of wisdom do get read! Welcome to Briskoda if you've not introduced yourself formally, can we rely on your tech expertise around the site then?

I'll help where I can. I joined because I have just bought an Octavia VRS with a blown engine/turbo which is now fixed and I am rather enjoying it. I must be getting old though as I have parked up my serious Golf 2 16v and the Golf 1 is languishing at work still needing some work before I can get onto my Bug resto. At least I have APR’d the Octavia and I will modify it as parts need replacing.