A spacious executive car offering near-Audi quality at a lower price point. The EA288 2.0 TDI engine is a significant improvement over earlier VAG diesels, with high-mileage examples (150,000+ km) common. Main concerns: DPF clogging on short journeys, DSG mechatronics (if equipped), EGR valve carbon buildup, and AdBlue system failures on Euro 6 models. Alloy wheel lacquer deterioration is a known cosmetic issue across the range. Timing belt replacement due at 210,000 km or 5 years. Verify all recalls completed - particularly seat belt/airbag recalls for 2016 production.
Filter clogs from short trips, preventing regeneration cycles · more· less
The DPF can become blocked if the car is primarily used for short trips at low speeds, preventing proper regeneration. Symptoms include black smoke, check engine light, reduced power, and limp mode. Professional cleaning costs around €250-300, while replacement runs €1,500-2,500. Prevention: regular longer drives at highway speeds (30+ minutes) to allow regeneration. One owner reported DPF replacement at just 52,000 miles on a 2016 model. If the thermostatic valves fail (keeping the engine from reaching proper temperature), regeneration cannot occur.
Valve body splitting, clutch wear, sensor failures on DSG-equipped cars · more· less
The 7-speed DSG (DQ200 dry-clutch on lower-powered models, DQ381 wet-clutch on 190hp) can suffer mechatronics failures. The DQ200 is particularly problematic - roughly 80% of DSG failures are mechatronic unit related. Symptoms include jerky shifts between 1st and 2nd gear, delayed engagement, and complete loss of drive. One owner was quoted €2,681 plus VAT for control unit repair. The DQ381 wet-clutch used on 190hp models is more reliable but still requires oil changes every 80,000 km. Manual gearbox versions avoid these issues entirely.
EGR valve carbon buildup€400 - €1,800
Valve clogs with soot, causing rough idle and power loss · more· less
The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gases but accumulates carbon deposits over time. Symptoms include sluggish acceleration, rough idling, stalling, and poor fuel economy. The part costs €350-400, but labor is significant (3-5 hours) as the EGR is buried low in the engine bay and the subframe may need moving. One owner reported €300 parts + €1,000 labor at a VW dealer. Cleaning every 50,000 km can help extend life. Note: EGR delete is illegal and will cause MOT/TUV failure.
AdBlue system failure (Euro 6)€250 - €2,500
Pump, injector, or level sensor failures on SCR-equipped models · more· less
Euro 6 models (2015+) use AdBlue injection for emissions control. Common failures include the AdBlue pump (often comes complete with tank - €1,000-2,500), injector clogging (€250-400), and level sensor malfunctions. One owner reported a faulty AdBlue pump replaced for €250 at an independent. Prevention: use fresh AdBlue (has a shelf life), avoid storing in sunlight, and keep the system topped up. Failures typically occur between 80,000-120,000 km.
Timing belt replacement€600 - €900
Scheduled replacement at 210,000 km or 5 years - not a failure but a required service · more· less
VAG recommends timing belt replacement at 210,000 km without time limit, though most dealers advise 5 years maximum. Water pump is typically replaced at the same time (combined cost €650-900). Failure is catastrophic - the engine is interference type, so belt failure causes valve/piston contact and requires engine rebuild or replacement. Always verify timing belt service history when buying, and budget for this if approaching the interval.
Dual mass flywheel wear€600 - €1,200
DMF develops play causing vibration and rattling, typically after 120,000+ km · more· less
The dual mass flywheel absorbs drivetrain vibrations but wears over time. Symptoms include rattling at idle, vibration through the clutch pedal, and difficulty shifting. Replacement cost at a dealer is around €1,100 for flywheel and clutch together. Some owners opt for solid flywheel conversion at around €450-500 total. Earlier VAG DMFs had reliability issues that have been largely addressed in newer production. Manual cars only - DSG has its own damper system.
Turbocharger failure€1,000 - €2,500
Oil starvation or contamination leads to bearing wear · more· less
Turbo failures on the EA288 are relatively rare but can occur due to oil starvation (irregular oil changes), contamination, or foreign particle damage. Signs include whistling noises, smoke from exhaust, loss of power, and oil leaks. Prevention: strict oil change intervals (every 15,000 km or annually), use VW 504.00/507.00 spec oil, and let the engine idle briefly before switching off after hard driving.
Fuel injector failure€300 - €2,500
Injectors fail causing rough running, poor economy, and increased emissions · more· less
Diesel injectors can fail due to fuel contamination, carbon buildup, or electrical faults. Symptoms include rough idling, poor fuel economy, and increased emissions. Single injector replacement costs €300-600 (note: injector 3 has a pressure sensor and costs more). Full set replacement with labor runs €1,500-2,500. Injectors require coding to the ECU after replacement. Prevention: use quality diesel and consider fuel system cleaner additives periodically.
Electric tailgate malfunction€100 - €500
Hinges seize from lack of lubrication, struts fail, Hall sensor faults · more· less
The electric tailgate is one of the most common complaint areas. Issues include: stiff/squeaky hinges (needs regular WD40 lubrication), broken cables in struts, and Hall sensor faults preventing full opening. Simple lubrication fixes most squeaking issues. Strut replacement costs €200-400. Hall sensor faults often just need contact cleaning and plug reseating. Beeping at full height and failing to close typically indicates strut motor issues.
Alloy wheel lacquer deterioration€100 - €600
Protective lacquer degrades, allowing corrosion underneath · more· less
All Superbs are known to suffer from premature alloy wheel lacquer degradation. The clear coat lifts, allowing moisture underneath which causes white "spidering" corrosion. Particularly affects Vega alloys with diamond-cut surfaces. Refurbishment costs €100-150 per wheel. Prevention: regular cleaning with pH-neutral products, avoid acid-based wheel cleaners, and consider ceramic coating or sealant application.
Infotainment system issues€0 - €1,000
Columbus/Amundsen units freeze, reboot, or lose connectivity · more· less
The MIB2/MIB3 infotainment systems can experience freezing, random reboots, and connectivity issues. DAB radio may take 1-2 minutes to initialize on cold boot. Phone pairing can be temperamental. Most issues are resolved with software updates (available at Skoda dealers or via updateportal.skoda-auto.com). In severe cases, the head unit may need replacement (€800-1,000). This was the most commonly reported issue area in reliability surveys, though typically resolved without major cost.
Above-average reliability for a diesel executive car
The Skoda Superb Mk3 2.0 TDI scores well in reliability surveys for diesel variants - higher than petrol versions and above rivals from Audi, Mercedes, and VW. The EA288 engine is considered robust when properly maintained. Main risk areas are emissions equipment (DPF, EGR, AdBlue) and the DSG gearbox if equipped. Manual transmission versions have fewer potential failure points. Budget for timing belt service if approaching the interval.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (15,000 km or annually). Check for timing belt replacement if over 5 years old.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns indicating suspension issues.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual sounds and watch for excessive smoke.
Body condition
This is a large car - check carefully for parking damage and alloy wheel kerb damage.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including highway speeds to allow DPF regeneration cycle and DSG warm-up.
Specific for this vehicle
Check DPF regeneration status
Using OBD scanner, check DPF soot loading percentage and ash content. High values indicate potential blockage. Ask about the car's typical use - lots of short trips is a red flag.
DSG gearbox operation (if equipped)
Drive for 15+ minutes until fully warm. Feel for jerky shifts especially between 1st-2nd gear, hesitation on pull-away, or any clunking sounds.
Inspect alloy wheels for lacquer peeling
Look for white spidering or bubbling under the clear coat, particularly on diamond-cut surfaces. Check all four wheels carefully.
Test electric tailgate operation
Open and close multiple times. Listen for squeaking, check for smooth operation, and ensure it closes fully without requiring manual assistance.
Check AdBlue system (Euro 6)
Verify no warning lights, check AdBlue level and filler cap condition. Ask when it was last topped up.
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Check Bluetooth pairing, DAB radio, navigation, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Watch for freezing or slow response.
Inspect front passenger footwell
Check for damp carpet - indicates blocked plenum chamber drainage causing water ingress.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Seat belt tensioner (Aug 2016 production)Verify completed
Airbag/seat belt (May-Nov 2016 production)Verify completed
Check your specific vehicle at recallactions.skoda-auto.com using the VIN. Also check the UK government database at gov.uk/check-vehicle-recall or German KBA database. The seat belt/airbag recalls for 2016 production are particularly important to verify.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty3 years / 100,000 km
Extended warranty availableUp to 5 years / 150,000 km
Paintwork warranty3 years
Corrosion perforation warranty12 years
Most 2015-2020 Superbs are now outside their original factory warranty. Extended warranty options may be available through Skoda dealers. Some owners have received goodwill contributions (50-70% off) for failures just outside warranty - worth asking if applicable. The DSG gearbox may have extended coverage - check with Skoda directly.
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.