2000 Skoda Fabia Classic review from UK and Ireland

Over torqued cylinder head and subsequent problems meant a new engine.

Illumination problem with the speedo on the dash meant a new dashboard.

Pipe detached from the rear wash/wipe.

Door locks broken on TWO separate occasions.

Window winder mechanism (broken pin) broken on FOUR different occasions.

Glove box release catch broken.

Chipped paintwork when new.

Dealer neglected to put any coolant in the radiator at the last service.

It is such a shame that a car that is so nice to drive, is let down by what can only be described as appalling reliability. When this is coupled with indifferent and unsympathetic dealer service, it just creates very dissatisfied customers.

On average, we are back at the dealer every 6 weeks with another fault. The journey to the dealer is a 70 mile round trip and has caused huge amounts of inconvenience and loss of annual holiday.

Many of the problems appear to be caused by poor build quality. Components such as door locks and window winders just 'feel' like they're not built to last.

It appears that we have a 'Friday afternoon car' that Skoda have refused to replace. We will, of course, be offloading the car before the 3-year parts/labour warranty expires.

"It's a Skoda - honest".