Car problems
Common car problems, model by model
The faults that owners and garages report most often for each model, with how to check them yourself before you buy parts. Every guide is checked by hand before it’s published.
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Skoda
Skoda Octavia common problems
Blocked DPF or sticking EGR valve on the TDI · Coolant leak from the plastic water pump or thermostat housing · Jerky pull-away or shudder from the 7-speed DSG gearbox
5 problems explained → -
Audi
Audi A3 common problems
Blocked DPF or sticking EGR valve on the TDI · Coolant leak from the plastic water pump or thermostat housing · Jerky pull-away or shudder from the 7-speed DSG gearbox
4 problems explained → -
Volvo
Volvo V40 common problems
Coolant loss leading to head gasket failure on the 1.6 D2 · Dual-clutch automatic judder, overheating warnings, or failure · EGR valve or DPF problems on the diesels
4 problems explained → -
Volvo
Volvo V70 common problems
Blocked crankcase ventilation (PCV) pushing out oil · Electronic throttle module (ETM) fault: limp mode and poor idle · Harsh 2-3 shifts, delayed engagement, or slipping automatic
4 problems explained → -
Citroen
Citroen C3 common problems
PureTech timing belt breaking up in the oil · Failing alternator: lights dimming, flat battery · Heater blows cold: faulty electronic thermostat
3 problems explained → -
Volkswagen
Volkswagen Golf common problems
Coolant leak from the plastic water pump or thermostat housing · Jerky pull-away or shudder from the 7-speed DSG gearbox · Timing chain stretch on the older 1.2 and 1.4 TSI
3 problems explained → -
Volvo
Volvo XC60 common problems
Broken swirl-flap linkage or sooted swirl flaps · All-wheel drive stops working: Haldex pump or filter · EGR valve clogged with carbon
3 problems explained → -
BMW
BMW 3 Series common problems
N47 timing chain failure (chain at the gearbox end) · Oil leaks from the oil filter housing or valve cover gasket
2 problems explained → -
Toyota
Toyota Yaris common problems
Hybrid won’t switch on: flat 12-volt battery · High oil consumption on the 1.33
2 problems explained →