IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2017–2019 Skoda Superb Mk3

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2017–2019 Skoda Superb Mk3. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2017–2019 period has 3 more issues than the Skoda Superb Mk3 average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

DSG Mechatronic Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The auto gearboxes can still suffer from electronic or clutch-related faults, especially on under-serviced cars.

Most affected: 1.4 TSI DSG, 1.5 TSI DSG, 2.0 TDI DSG, 280 4x4 DSG

Estimated cost: £800–£1,800Affects: 2015–2020Often appears around: 45k-100k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Jerky low-speed shifts
  • •Gearbox warnings
  • •Delayed engagement

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive it in stop-start traffic
  • ✓Verify correct service intervals
  • ✓Check for previous clutch or mechatronic repairs

DSG (DQ381) Sensor Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Later Mk3 models with the 7-speed wet-clutch DSG (DQ381) can suffer from faulty clutch position sensors (P1735/P1736), requiring a mechatronic rebuild.

Most affected: 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TSI

Estimated cost: £600–£1,200Affects: 2017–2024Often appears around: 30k-70k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Gearbox emergency mode
  • •Loss of odd or even gears
  • •Fault codes P1735 or P1736

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for gearbox fault codes
  • ✓Verify if mechatronic has been rebuilt or replaced

Water Pump / Thermostat Housing Leak

ModerateCooling System

A familiar MQB fault where the plastic housing warps and leaks coolant.

Most affected: 1.4 TSI, 1.5 TSI, 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TSI

Estimated cost: £400–£750Affects: 2015–2021Often appears around: 40k-90k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Low coolant warning
  • •Pink residue around housing
  • •Sweet smell after driving

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect coolant level cold
  • ✓Look for a recent pump invoice
  • ✓Check around the thermostat housing with a torch

Infotainment Screen Ghost Touching

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Columbus and other higher-spec touchscreens can start operating themselves or show display lines.

Most affected: SE L, Laurin & Klement, SportLine

Estimated cost: £300–£800Affects: 2015–2019Often appears around: Age-related rather than mileage-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Menus changing by themselves
  • •Frozen navigation
  • •Lines or dead areas on screen

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test the screen hot and cold if possible
  • ✓Check for replacement head unit history
  • ✓Use media and navigation together on the drive

Buying Tips for the 2017 Skoda Superb Mk3

  • ✓Inspect the water pump and thermostat housing for leaks
  • ✓Verify DSG servicing and smooth hot/cold behaviour
  • ✓Test the infotainment screen for lines, ghost touches or reboots
  • ✓Look at the exterior trim and check estate boot areas for water ingress
2015–2016 Skoda Superb Mk32020 Skoda Superb Mk3

Browse 2017–2019 Skoda Superb Mk3 in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2017–2019 Skoda Superb Mk3 vehicles.

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Other Skoda Superb Mk3 Year Periods

2015–20162017–2019202020212022–2024

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