Skoda Yeti Problems

The Skoda Yeti is undoubtedly an appealing option for many, especially for its 4×4 variant. Its design and functionality seem particularly beneficial for towing caravans on muddy festival sites or challenging terrains. With the increasing restrictions and bans on diesel in cities like Bristol, a petrol option becomes an obvious choice for those who primarily drive short, local journeys.

Engine Considerations for the Yeti:

1. 1.8 TSI Engine Concerns: There have been reports about expensive failures with the Skoda Yeti’s 1.8 TSI engines, especially from discussions dating back to 2013. Long-term Yeti owners have advised against opting for this engine due to numerous problems, some of which can be terminal.
2. 1.4 TSI Engine: Despite its recommendation by a few, the 1.4 TSI has faced criticisms. It’s believed to have even more issues than the 1.8 variant. Numerous modifications were made to fix inherent problems, but they seemingly remained unresolved.
3. 1.5 TSI Engine: The replacement for the 1.4, the 1.5 TSI, has not fared much better. A notable problem includes “kangarooing” when the engine is cold. Although a software update was released to address this, many owners still report the problem.

Alternative Vehicle Suggestions:

1. Skoda Octavia Estate 4×4 2.0TDi: This vehicle boasts impressive mileage, both solo and when towing. It’s also equipped with the Haldex system, which performs well on muddy fields. Additionally, investing in all-season tires like the Vredestine Quatrac 5 can enhance its performance.
2. Considering Diesels for Towing: While petrol vehicles are popular due to urban diesel bans, diesel cars have their merits. They offer substantial torque and better fuel economy. Vehicles like Saab have proven to be efficient, albeit a bit heavy on fuel.
3. Other Petrol Vehicles: Not all petrol engines have issues. While the VAG group’s 1.5 petrol engine has faced criticisms, other manufacturers, like Honda, have maintained a clean record.

Other Points to Consider:

1. City Diesel Bans: With cities like Bristol implementing bans on privately-owned diesel cars, it’s essential to check if such restrictions will affect your travels. However, note that public transportation and delivery vehicles, albeit with certain fees, are exceptions.
2. Purchasing Older Cars: Buying a decade-old vehicle always involves some risk. However, if it has had a low number of careful owners, issues might arise more from age and use rather than faulty original components.
3. Public Transportation: Diesel public transportation like buses, despite paying entry fees in certain zones, might not be as environmentally friendly as they seem. Emissions from older buses might be contrary to the clean transport image.

Conclusion:

Choosing a tow car requires thorough research, especially when factoring in the vehicle’s primary usage and the terrains you’ll frequently traverse. While the Skoda Yeti remains an attractive option for many, it’s essential to weigh the potential engine issues against its benefits. Always consider user experiences and expert advice to ensure you make an informed decision. Safe travels!