Skoda · Known Issues

2013 Skoda Fabia Problems: 12 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2013 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated June 2026

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2013 Skoda Fabia has 12 documented known issues, with 8 rated critical. The most serious are Curtain Airbag Wiring Recall (Wrong-Side Deployment), Rear Suspension and Subframe Corrosion (Mk1/Mk2 Salt-Belt) ($400-$1,500 repair), 1.2 TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Failure ($1,000-$3,000 repair), 1.6 TDI (and 1.4 TDI PD) Diesel Injector / Fuel System Faults ($300-$5,000 repair), 1.2 TSI (EA111) Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure ($1,300-$5,500 repair), 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Dry-Clutch / Mechatronic Failures ($1,500-$5,000 repair), 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Mechatronic and Jerky Shifting Faults ($600-$2,500 repair) and 1.2 TSI EA111 Timing Chain Stretch and Tensioner Failure ($1,100-$2,700 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $20 to $5,500. DIY maintenance guides at .

All 12 Known Issues

On the 2010-2014 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI EA111, same EA111 1.2 TSI timing chain tensioner defect as Octavia (above) — affects Mk2 (2010-2014) and early Mk3 (2014-2017) Fabia. Tensioner cannot hold pressure during cold start. Often slightly more prevalent on Fabia due to short-trip city use pattern typical of this segment.

This issue also affects: Audi A4, Audi A1, Audi A5

Common Symptoms

Cold-start rattle from front of engine
Misfires
Cam-crank correlation codes
Severe cases: bent valves and no compression

How to Fix

Same as Octavia — full timing chain kit replacement with updated INA tensioner. €1,000-€1,800 in EU.

Typical repair cost:$1,000 - $3,000

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On the 2010-2014 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI (EA111, CBZA/CBZB), the chain-driven 1.2 TSI petrol engine (EA111, fitted to Fabia Mk2 from roughly 2010-2014) is widely reported to suffer premature timing chain stretch caused by a weak chain tensioner that loses oil pressure. Owners report a rattle on cold start-up (especially before the tensioner pressurises), engine warning lights and rough running. If the stretched chain jumps teeth on the camshaft sprocket the valves and pistons can collide, causing catastrophic damage. Briskoda and Honest John carry numerous owner accounts of failures between roughly 29,000 and 53,000 miles. The tensioner design was improved from mid-2011, so pre-June-2011 cars are considered highest risk. The later belt-driven EA211 1.0/1.2 TSI (Mk3, 2014 on) does not share this defect.

This issue also affects: Audi A4, Audi A1, Audi A5

Common Symptoms

Rattle/chain rattle on cold start
Engine warning light (EML)
Rough running or misfire
Loss of power
Metallic plastic fragments in oil
Engine failure if chain jumps

How to Fix

Listen for a rattle at cold start and have the chain, tensioner and guides inspected/replaced proactively (kit plus labour) before failure. Once the chain jumps and bends valves, repair usually means a top-end rebuild or, more often, a replacement engine. Keeping to short oil-change intervals with the correct VW-spec oil helps protect the tensioner.

Typical repair cost:$1,300 - $5,500

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On the 2010-2014 Skoda Fabia, the 1.2 TSI petrol engine (EA111) fitted to Mk2 Fabias is notorious for timing chain stretch caused by a weak chain tensioner that loses oil pressure over time. This produces a distinctive rattling noise from the engine bay, especially on cold start. If left untreated the stretched chain can jump teeth on the camshaft sprockets, causing the pistons and valves to collide and resulting in catastrophic, often uneconomic, engine damage. Pre-June-2011 engines are most at risk and frequent oil changes plus early preventative replacement of the chain kit are the recommended mitigation.

This issue also affects: Audi A4, Audi A1, Audi A5

Common Symptoms

rattling noise from engine on cold start
engine rattle at idle
check engine light
rough running
loss of power
engine misfire

How to Fix

Replace the timing chain, guides and (critically) the upgraded tensioner as a kit before failure. Any cold-start rattle should be diagnosed immediately and the car not driven hard until fixed. Many owners replace proactively around 60,000-80,000 miles. Maintain strict short oil-change intervals using correct spec oil to slow chain wear.

Typical repair cost:$1,100 - $2,700

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On the 2010-2018 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI with 7-speed DSG (DQ200/0AM), fabias fitted with the 7-speed dry-clutch DSG (DQ200/0AM, paired mainly with the 1.2 TSI) are prone to mechatronic and clutch faults. The mechatronic valve body has a known design weakness (a thin-walled accumulator/canister that can split), causing loss of hydraulic pressure, harsh or hesitant shifts, failure to select reverse or 6th, and entry into limp mode or complete loss of drive. Honest John documents a case where slow DSG response on a 1.2 TSI 105 contributed to a crash. The dry clutch is also sensitive to overheating in stop-start city use. VW Group issued service campaigns and extended warranty (commonly 5 years/150,000 km) on DQ200 gearboxes in several markets, and a major DSG recall affected tens of thousands of VAG cars.

This issue also affects: Audi A1, Audi R8, Audi S7

Common Symptoms

Jerky or harsh gear changes
Hesitation / slow response from a stop
Failure to engage reverse or a gear
Rumbling noise at low speed
Limp/emergency mode
Complete loss of drive

How to Fix

Have the gearbox fault-read (P189C00 / pressure-loss codes are common). Many faults are cured by replacing or rebuilding the mechatronic unit rather than the whole box; clutch packs are replaced when worn. Keep up with the DSG fluid/filter change introduced for later cars and check whether the car is covered by the extended DQ200 warranty or recall.

Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $5,000

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On the 2009-2018 Skoda Fabia, fabias fitted with the 7-speed dry-clutch DSG (DQ200) automatic gearbox commonly develop jerky or hesitant shifting, juddering from a standstill, and in worse cases complete loss of drive with the car entering limp mode. The root cause is the mechatronic unit's pressure accumulator: the aluminium housing develops micro-cracks under the 60-70 bar pressure and can no longer build adequate hydraulic pressure, while the dry clutch packs and clutch slave can also wear. The unit can fail to restart after the ignition is cycled, leaving the car immobile until a technician intervenes.

This issue also affects: Audi A1, Audi R8, Audi S7

Common Symptoms

jerky gear changes
hesitation when pulling away
juddering from standstill
loss of drive / limp mode
car will not restart after ignition cycled
gearbox warning light

How to Fix

Have the gearbox fault-read first; a DSG basic-settings adaptation/reset and fresh DSG oil sometimes resolve early jerkiness. Worn or cracked mechatronic units require a remanufactured/repaired mechatronic (with an upgraded accumulator) or clutch pack replacement. Vehicles built 2009-2015 were also covered by a VW Group recall for a faulty pressure accumulator housing.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $2,500

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On the 2007-2019 Skoda Fabia, an official safety recall affected Mk2-era Fabias in which a curtain airbag wiring fault could cause the airbag on the wrong side of the car to deploy during a collision, reducing occupant protection. A separate recall affected 1.2-litre diesel models for a potential fuel leak. Later, a 2019 recall covered 393 vehicles for slow airbag inflation and a small 2023 recall addressed potential gas-generator cover damage during airbag deployment.

Common Symptoms

airbag warning light
recall notice received
fuel smell (1.2 diesel)

How to Fix

Check the vehicle's VIN against Skoda's recall database and have any outstanding airbag wiring or fuel-leak recall work carried out free of charge by a franchised dealer.

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On the 1999-2014 Skoda Fabia, mk1 and Mk2 Fabias suffer rear suspension and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions (Germany, UK, Scandinavia). The torsion beam/subframe rusts from the inside out, eventually compromising structural integrity. UK MOT testers have failed Fabias for rear suspension corrosion. Common at 8-15 years old in salt regions. The specific failure mode varies — could be beam, control arm mounts, or subframe.

Common Symptoms

Visible rust on rear axle
MOT failure (UK)
Cracking sounds from rear suspension
Vehicle handling deteriorates

How to Fix

Replace rear axle beam (€400-€800 used, €1,200+ new). Often economically unviable on older Fabias, leading to scrappage.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,500

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On the 2003-2014 Skoda Fabia, fabia diesels suffer recurring fuel-system problems. On the common-rail 1.6 TDI, owners (PistonHeads, Briskoda) report repeated injector failures - in one case three injectors in a few months - causing misfires, rough running, smoke and limp mode. On the older 1.4 TDI 3-cylinder PD engine, the unit (Pumpe-Duse) injectors and their cam-driven actuation are sensitive to the wrong oil: using non-PD oil can wear the narrow cam lobes, and worn injector seals can dilute the engine oil (rising oil level). Misfuelling or bad fuel can also destroy the high-pressure pump, sending swarf through the system - an expensive (often four-figure) repair.

This issue also affects: Audi A3, Audi R8

Common Symptoms

Misfire / rough running
Loss of power / limp mode
Excess smoke
Rising engine oil level (PD)
Hard starting
Knocking noise

How to Fix

Diagnose with live fuel-system data and codes. Replace failed injectors and re-code; on PD engines always use VW 505.01 (PD-spec) 5W-40 oil and replace injector seals if oil level rises. If the HP pump has failed from contamination, the fuel system usually needs flushing and multiple components replacing.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $5,000

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On the 2007-2014 Skoda Fabia, the rear wiper motor is a commonly reported Fabia fault (shared across several Skoda models). The rear wiper stops working, often because the carbon brushes inside the motor sit too tight or wear, or the motor seizes. Honest John notes a known DIY remedy and it is a low-cost issue rather than a safety-critical one.

Common Symptoms

Rear wiper not working
Rear wiper intermittent or stuck
No rear wiper movement

How to Fix

Remove and inspect the rear wiper motor; lightly filing/freeing the carbon brush edges often restores operation, otherwise fit a replacement motor. Inexpensive either way.

Typical repair cost:$20 - $120

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On the 2000-2017 Skoda Fabia, central locking is a recurring weak point across Fabia generations, with individual door actuators failing so that one door (often the driver's or front passenger's) will not lock or unlock with the remote. The electric motor inside the lock module wears out, or the wiring harness running through the door hinge gaiter cracks from repeated flexing. Symptoms include a clunking/whirring lock that does not latch, intermittent locking, or the remote working on some doors but not others.

Common Symptoms

one door will not lock or unlock
clunking noise from door lock
intermittent central locking
remote locks some doors but not others

How to Fix

Test the actuator with a multimeter and inspect the door-hinge wiring loom for broken conductors. Replace the failed door lock actuator/module and repair any broken wires at the hinge. Lubricating the lock mechanism and connectors helps prevent recurrence.

Typical repair cost:$80 - $300

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On the 2010-2015 Skoda Fabia, fabia Mk2 1.6 TDI (and some 1.2 TDI) diesels use the EA189 common-rail engine caught in the VW Group emissions scandal; UK cars were recalled from 2016 for an NOx software 'fix'. Honest John confirms the Fabia 1.6 TDI EA189 (built c.2010-2015) was among affected cars. A widely reported side-effect is that, after the emissions update, EGR valves and DPFs clog or fail prematurely - owners report warning lights, limp mode, loss of power and poor economy, with VW Group later refunding/repairing many EGR failures. Short-trip urban use makes DPF regeneration problems worse.

This issue also affects: Audi A1, Audi A3, Audi Q2

Common Symptoms

EML / emissions warning light
DPF warning light
Limp mode
Loss of power
Reduced fuel economy
Rattle at low revs after the fix

How to Fix

Check whether the emissions recall has been applied. If EGR/DPF symptoms appear after the fix, have the EGR valve and DPF inspected; VW Group ran goodwill/refund measures for EGR failures linked to the update. A forced DPF regeneration or EGR clean/replacement is the typical repair; regular motorway runs help keep the DPF clear.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,500

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On the 2007-2014 Skoda Fabia, coolant loss is a recurring Fabia complaint, most often traced to the plastic-bodied water pump (leaking shaft seal, occasionally a cracked housing) or the thermostat housing. Owners on Briskoda describe slow drips behind the pulleys that worsen with the engine running, and a coolant level that needs topping up. Left unchecked it leads to overheating risk. On the 75 bhp 1.4 a small number of head-gasket failures are also reported, though these are rarer.

This issue also affects: Audi A1, Audi Q2

Common Symptoms

Coolant level dropping / frequent top-ups
Coolant smell
Drips/residue behind pulleys or under car
Temperature gauge rising
Coolant warning light

How to Fix

Pressure-test the cooling system to locate the leak, then replace the water pump (and timing belt while access is open on belt-driven engines) and/or the thermostat housing with new gaskets/seals. Inspect hoses for cracks and swelling at the same time.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $600

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Skoda Fabia problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2013-2013 Skoda Fabia has 12 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Curtain Airbag Wiring Recall (Wrong-Side Deployment), Rear Suspension and Subframe Corrosion (Mk1/Mk2 Salt-Belt), 1.2 TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Failure. Of these, 8 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Skoda Fabia reliable?

The 2013-2013 Skoda Fabia has 12 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 8 issues are rated critical: Curtain Airbag Wiring Recall (Wrong-Side Deployment) and Rear Suspension and Subframe Corrosion (Mk1/Mk2 Salt-Belt) and 1.2 TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and 1.6 TDI (and 1.4 TDI PD) Diesel Injector / Fuel System Faults and 1.2 TSI (EA111) Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure and 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Dry-Clutch / Mechatronic Failures and 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Mechatronic and Jerky Shifting Faults and 1.2 TSI EA111 Timing Chain Stretch and Tensioner Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Skoda Fabia problems?

Repair costs for known Skoda Fabia issues range from $20 to $5,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2019 Skoda Fabia Curtain Airbag Wiring Recall (Wrong-Side Deployment)?

An official safety recall affected Mk2-era Fabias in which a curtain airbag wiring fault could cause the airbag on the wrong side of the car to deploy during a collision, reducing occupant protection. A separate recall affected 1.2-litre diesel models for a potential fuel leak. L… Severity: high.

What is the 1999-2014 Skoda Fabia Rear Suspension and Subframe Corrosion (Mk1/Mk2 Salt-Belt)?

Mk1 and Mk2 Fabias suffer rear suspension and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions (Germany, UK, Scandinavia). The torsion beam/subframe rusts from the inside out, eventually compromising structural integrity. UK MOT testers have failed Fabias for rear suspension corrosion. Co… Repairs typically run $400-$1,500. Severity: high.

All 12 Known Issues

2010-2014 Skoda Fabia: 1.2 TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2010-2014 Skoda Fabia: 1.2 TSI (EA111) Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2010-2014 Skoda Fabia: 1.2 TSI EA111 Timing Chain Stretch and Tensioner Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2010-2018 Skoda Fabia: 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Dry-Clutch / Mechatronic Failures#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2009-2018 Skoda Fabia: 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Mechatronic and Jerky Shifting Faults#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2007-2019 Skoda Fabia: Curtain Airbag Wiring Recall (Wrong-Side Deployment)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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1999-2014 Skoda Fabia: Rear Suspension and Subframe Corrosion (Mk1/Mk2 Salt-Belt)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2003-2014 Skoda Fabia: 1.6 TDI (and 1.4 TDI PD) Diesel Injector / Fuel System Faults#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2007-2014 Skoda Fabia: Rear Wiper Motor Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2000-2017 Skoda Fabia: Central Locking Actuator and Door Lock Failures#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2010-2015 Skoda Fabia: 1.6 TDI (EA189) Dieselgate Recall and Post-Fix EGR/DPF Failures#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2007-2014 Skoda Fabia: Water Pump / Thermostat Housing Coolant Leaks#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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Tools that help with these problems

Other Skoda Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Skoda Fabia problems?

Is the Skoda Fabia reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Skoda Fabia problems?

What is the 2007-2019 Skoda Fabia Curtain Airbag Wiring Recall (Wrong-Side Deployment)?

What is the 1999-2014 Skoda Fabia Rear Suspension and Subframe Corrosion (Mk1/Mk2 Salt-Belt)?

What is the 2010-2014 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Failure?

What is the 2003-2014 Skoda Fabia 1.6 TDI (and 1.4 TDI PD) Diesel Injector / Fuel System Faults?

What is the 2010-2014 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI (EA111) Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure?

What is the 2010-2018 Skoda Fabia 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Dry-Clutch / Mechatronic Failures?

What is the 2009-2018 Skoda Fabia 7-Speed DSG (DQ200) Mechatronic and Jerky Shifting Faults?

What is the 2010-2014 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI EA111 Timing Chain Stretch and Tensioner Failure?

What is the 2010-2015 Skoda Fabia 1.6 TDI (EA189) Dieselgate Recall and Post-Fix EGR/DPF Failures?

What is the 2007-2014 Skoda Fabia Water Pump / Thermostat Housing Coolant Leaks?

What is the 2007-2014 Skoda Fabia Rear Wiper Motor Failure?

What is the 2000-2017 Skoda Fabia Central Locking Actuator and Door Lock Failures?