Is the Skoda Yeti a Reliable Family Car?
When it comes to reliability, the Skoda Yeti stands out as one of the most dependable used family cars on the market. While it does have a few known issues, they are generally repairable and parts are readily available through dealerships or specialists.
In a reliability survey conducted by What Car?, the Skoda Yeti performed well, with the petrol version ranking 7th out of 42 cars and the diesel version coming in at 13th place. The Skoda brand itself also scored highly, finishing 13th out of 31 manufacturers with an impressive reliability score of 91.8%.
Engine: One common issue with the Skoda Yeti is high oil consumption. It is important to regularly check the oil level using the dipstick. Timing chains are known to fail due to oil starvation, especially in the 1.2 and 1.4 engines. Using the correct grade of oil and ensuring timely oil changes is crucial to avoid damage to the turbocharger. Additionally, diesel cars may experience regeneration issues with the diesel particulate filter if the oil level is too high.
Gearbox: Look out for any unusual noises when accelerating, as this could indicate a problem with the dual-mass flywheel that may require replacement. It is also recommended to have the fluid of the Haldex transmission on 4×4 models changed every 40,000 miles or three years.
Air Conditioning: Check that the air conditioning system is functioning properly, as the compressor can fail and refrigerant gas may leak from the condenser. Replacement of a condenser, including labor costs, can range from £300 to £600.
Body and Interior: Inspect the cabin for any signs of wear and tear, and check the underside of the car for rust, particularly around the central body-protection strip. For 4×4 models, pay close attention to the sills and bumpers for any damage from off-road use.
Electrics: Keep an eye out for potential issues with the wiring looms in the doors, as they can cause various electrical problems such as malfunctioning air conditioning and incorrect warnings on the instrument cluster.
Owner Testimonial
Una Mulligan-Quenby: “Having owned a Skoda Yeti for three years, I can confidently say that it has been a great choice for me. Its resemblance to my old Land Rover Freelander, combined with its height and excellent driving position, makes it ideal for navigating country lanes. The Yeti performs well in urban settings and is easy to park in tight spaces. I would definitely recommend it to others, and it’s a shame that Skoda no longer produces them.”
Additional Information
The Skoda Yeti was available in various special-edition models, including the Monte Carlo with sports seats and black accents, the Tour de France equipped with a bike rack, the Adventure loaded with extra features, and the Outdoor boasting rugged styling.
