2013-2020 · 2.0 TSI EA888 Gen3 petrol (220/230/245 hp)
Practical performance hatchback with Golf GTI running gear at a lower price. The EA888 Gen3 2.0 TSI is generally reliable but watch for timing chain stretch on higher mileage examples (60,000-100,000 km) causing cold start rattle. The 6-speed DQ250 DSG is more reliable than the 7-speed DQ200 used in lower-powered models. Water pump failures are common between 70,000-100,000 km. Main issues: DSG mechatronics failures, carbon buildup on direct injection valves, PCV valve failures, and suspension bushings wear. The vRS 245 adds a limited-slip differential and upgraded dampers. Generally reliable when maintained properly, with many examples exceeding 200,000 km.
The EA888 Gen3 timing chain tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. This causes a distinctive rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold start, typically appearing between 60,000-100,000 km. If rattle lasts more than a few seconds, chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets all need replacing. VW has updated the tensioner part. Ignoring this can lead to chain skip and catastrophic valve/piston contact. Gen3 is improved over Gen2 but issue persists.
Water pump failure€600 - €1,400
Electric water pump fails between 70,000-100,000 km, known Skoda issue · more· less
Known fault with Skodas manufactured between 2014 and 2018. The electric water pump integrated with thermostat housing commonly fails between 70,000-100,000 km. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. The integrated part costs €400-500. Labor runs approximately 6 hours due to accessibility. Some owners receive goodwill discounts from Skoda even outside warranty as it's a known issue. If leak drips on timing belt, belt may need replacement too.
DSG mechatronics failure (DQ250)€1,500 - €3,500
DQ250 mechatronic unit solenoid failures cause harsh shifting and limp mode · more· less
The vRS 220/230 uses the 6-speed wet-clutch DQ250 DSG, which is more reliable than the 7-speed DQ200. However, the mechatronic unit (hybrid ECU/hydraulic control) remains a weak point. Symptoms include harsh shifting, limp mode, warning lights, delayed engagement, especially when gearbox warms up. Failures often involve solenoid valve faults causing poor gear selection. Mechatronics can overheat or suffer from gasket deterioration. Common fault codes: P0751, P0756, P0716, P1707. Specialists can rebuild for €1,500-2,000; dealer replacement costs €3,000-3,500.
The PCV valve is a known failure point on all EA888 generations. Most blatant symptom is loud screeching noise from engine bay. Other symptoms: rough/choppy idle, high idle RPM (P0507 code), check engine light (P0171 lean condition), engine misfires, rear main seal leaks. Common failures involve rubber diaphragm tearing or orange check valve failure. Should be inspected around 90,000 km. Replacing entire unit is straightforward DIY. Part costs €60-100 (OEM 06K103495BM). Gen4 TSI PCV is improved and can be retrofitted to Gen3.
Carbon buildup on intake valves€450 - €900
Direct injection engines don't clean intake valves, carbon buildup inevitable · more· less
Direct injection means fuel doesn't pass intake valves to keep them clean like port injection. Carbon deposits build up over time, affecting performance. Typically needs cleaning between 80,000-120,000 km. Professional walnut blasting costs €450-900, including intake manifold removal/reinstall. Some DIYers attempt themselves but it's a difficult 20-hour job. Symptoms include rough idle, hesitation, reduced power. More frequent on cars doing short trips. Using quality fuel and occasional spirited driving helps delay buildup.
Turbocharger actuator sticking€500 - €2,500
Actuator sticks from gentle driving, causes EPC light and limp mode · more· less
Turbo actuator tends to stick if car driven too gently or only short trips, as carbon builds up. Symptoms include EPC light and limp mode. VW won't sell actuator separately. Actuator-only repair at specialist costs €500-600, but if turbo internals damaged, full turbo replacement runs €1,200-2,500. Using premium fuel and regular spirited driving helps prevent. Turbo lifespan varies 20,000-100,000+ km depending on maintenance and oil quality. Critical to use correct VW-spec oil and change regularly.
Control arm bushings deterioration€200 - €750
Rubber bushes wear causing creaking, clunking noises over bumps · more· less
OEM rubber suspension bushings deteriorate from heat, age, salt, and stress. Common MOT advisories for "suspension arm rubber bush deteriorated." Symptoms include clicking, popping, or squeaking sounds when turning or over bumps, uneven tire wear, instability at speed. Front lower suspension arm bushings most common. Some owners replace complete arms with new bushings/bolts. Dealer quoted €750 for repairs. Independent garages charge less. Polyurethane aftermarket upgrades available for improved longevity and handling.
Ignition coils failure€150 - €350
Coil packs common fault on vRS, typically last 80,000-100,000 km · more· less
Coil packs are quite a common fault on Octavia vRS and VW Group equivalents. Typically last 80,000-100,000 km but have no specific replacement interval. Symptoms include engine misfires, rough idle, poor acceleration, check engine light. Easy DIY replacement - just disconnect connector, remove two bolts per coil, takes 5 minutes. Individual coils cost €20-35 each (Bosch/OEM). Independent garage fitted price: €64 for one coil to €210 for all four. Worn spark plugs can cause coil failure, so check plugs thoroughly when replacing coils.
Infotainment/electrical glitches€100 - €500
Sat-nav freezes, parking sensors fail, various electrical niggles · more· less
Sat-nav/infotainment was the most common problem area, accounting for 31% of faults in reliability surveys. Issues include sat-nav system glitches, faulty parking sensors, and warning lights appearing without clear cause. Minor electrical niggles often relating to sat-nav. Some require software updates from dealer, others may need hardware replacement. Wing mirror indicators tend to fail because water leaks into LED lights - replacement mirrors needed. Taking to main dealer may be best for infotainment issues.
Generally reliable when maintained, but watch for timing chain and water pump
The Octavia RS Mk3 shares its proven EA888 Gen3 engine and DQ250 DSG with the Golf GTI, both of which are generally reliable. The car scored 99.3% in What Car? reliability surveys. Most issues are well-documented and preventable with proper maintenance. Regular oil changes are critical for timing chain and turbo longevity. Budget €900-1,700/year for routine maintenance plus risk buffer. Many examples exceed 200,000 km with proper care.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Skoda dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (every 15,000 km or annually). Confirm water pump and timing chain condition documented.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. vRS uses 225/40R18 tires which wear faster due to performance nature.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen carefully for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds. Any rattle lasting more than 1-2 seconds is concerning.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Look for water leaks through side windows.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including highway speeds to get DSG gearbox fully warmed up.
Specific for this vehicle
Listen for timing chain rattle on cold start
This is the single most important check. Start engine completely cold and listen for rattle in first 30 seconds. Rattle lasting more than a few seconds indicates chain stretch requiring replacement (€1,000-2,200).
Check DSG gearbox operation thoroughly
Drive for 15+ minutes until gearbox fully warm. Feel for jerky shifts, hesitation, clunking, or harsh engagement. Test manual mode. Any gearbox warning lights are serious.
Verify water pump condition and service history
Check for coolant leaks, verify replacement if over 70,000 km. Known issue on 2014-2018 models. Look for coolant under car or in engine bay.
Listen for PCV valve screeching noise
Loud screeching from engine bay indicates PCV failure. Also check for rough idle or high idle RPM.
Check for suspension noises over bumps
Listen for creaking, clunking, or clicking sounds indicating worn control arm bushings. Common wear item.
Test all infotainment and electrical systems
Check sat-nav, parking sensors, all buttons and switches. These are common fault areas. Verify wing mirror indicators work.
Check for oil consumption
Ask owner about oil top-up frequency. EA888 Gen3 should not consume significant oil between services if healthy (Gen2 had worse oil consumption issues).
Verify camshaft adjuster recall completed
Cars built April-October 2014 affected by camshaft adjuster bolt recall. Verify completed with Skoda using VIN.
Check for carbon buildup symptoms (high mileage cars)
Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power indicate carbon buildup on intake valves. More common over 80,000 km. Ask if walnut blasting performed.
Brake servo vacuum pipe tension cracksCheck for recall
Heat protection mat (DSG models)Check for recall
25 safety recalls listed for Octavia Mk3 generation
Contact Skoda dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The camshaft adjuster recall (2014 models) and rear wheel bearing housing recall (August 2017) are particularly important. Check official Skoda recall page or Government recall checker for complete list.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on all Mk3 models
DSG gearbox extended warranty5 years / 150,000 km (verify with dealer)
All 2013-2020 Octavia RS models are outside their original 2-year factory warranty. Some may still have DSG extended warranty coverage if within 5 years/150,000 km. Extended warranty options available from Skoda dealers or third-party providers. Note that some issues like water pump leaks may receive goodwill discounts from Skoda even outside warranty.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.