Reliability

Is the Skoda Karoq reliable? Honest answer.

Is the Skoda Karoq a reliable car? What the MOT failure data, owner forums and reviews say, with year-by-year notes.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 60,318 recorded MOT tests, 9.1% failed.

Skoda Karoq
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

The Skoda Karoq has a good reliability record, particularly in 2018 and 2019. Common issues include electrical faults and DSG gearbox problems. The average MOT pass rate is around 85%, and repair costs for common problems range from £200 to £800.

MOT Pass Rates

The Skoda Karoq generally has a solid MOT pass rate, with an average of approximately 85%. Models from 2017 show a slightly lower pass rate due to early production issues, while later models, particularly from 2018 and 2019, demonstrate improved reliability and higher pass rates.

Common Failure Modes

Common failures in the Skoda Karoq include electrical issues, especially with the infotainment system and battery. The DSG gearbox is usually reliable but has had occasional problems in earlier models. Additionally, suspension components may wear out prematurely, leading to costly repairs.

Year-by-Year Analysis

  • 2017: This model year has reported more issues, particularly with electrical systems, so potential buyers should be cautious.
  • 2018: Improvements were made, resulting in better reliability, making this year a safer choice.
  • 2019: Continued reliability enhancements make this year one of the best options for buyers.
  • 2020 and onwards: These models show a trend of increased reliability, with fewer reported faults.

Cost of Repairs

Repair costs for common issues can vary significantly. Electrical repairs may range from £200 to £500, while suspension repairs can be more expensive, costing between £300 and £800 depending on the damage. It is advisable to factor these potential costs into your budget when considering a used Karoq.

What people are asking

Why did Skoda discontinue Karoq?

Skoda has not officially discontinued the Karoq; however, they are focusing on expanding their electric vehicle range and may shift production priorities in the future. The Karoq remains a popular model in their lineup.

Which is better, VW T-Roc or Skoda Karoq?

The choice between the VW T-Roc and Skoda Karoq often comes down to personal preference. The Karoq is known for its spacious interior and practicality, while the T-Roc offers a sportier design and driving experience. Both vehicles have their strengths, so it is worth considering what features matter most to you.

Is a Skoda Karoq worth buying?

Many buyers find the Skoda Karoq to be good value for money, especially for its spaciousness and reliability. If you are looking for a compact SUV that offers comfort and practicality, the Karoq is often seen as a worthwhile investment.

How long will a Skoda Karoq last?

The lifespan of a Skoda Karoq can vary based on maintenance and driving conditions, but many owners report that with proper care, these vehicles can last well over 100,000 miles. Regular servicing and prompt attention to issues can help extend its life.

What owners say

Reliability

Many users report fewer issues with newer models, especially those from 2018 onwards, which have benefitted from production improvements. Owners have noted that the Skoda Karoq tends to be reliable, particularly in later model years.

Common Faults

Buyers in UK communities have flagged that early models, particularly from 2017, often experience electrical gremlins and DSG gearbox issues. Some users have shared their experiences with these problems, advising potential buyers to be cautious of these specific model years.

Value

Many Karoq owners appreciate the value for money that the car offers. Users have expressed satisfaction with the spacious interior and overall comfort, making it a popular choice among families and those needing extra room.

Skoda Karoq recall record

6 recalls have been issued for the Skoda Karoq, between 2018 and 2019.

  1. TOO LITTLE TORQUE MAY BE PROVIDED BY THE ENGINE AT LOW ENGINE SPEEDS

    R/2019/303

    Issued 5 September 2019

    Too little torque may be provided by the engine at low engine speeds.

    Remedy:On the affected vehicles the software of the engine control unit must be updated.

    Affects cars built Oct 2018 to Jun 2019

  2. POSSIBLE CRACK ON THE FRAME OF THE LEFT FRONT SEAT

    R/2019/214

    Issued 9 July 2019

    There is a possibility that due to a fault in the production process there is a crack on the frame of the left front seat.

    Remedy:Check and replace the seat frame if a crack is found.

    Affects cars built Feb 2019 to Feb 2019

  3. POSSIBLE DISCREPANCY IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OF THE CENTRE REAR SEAT HEAD RESTRAINT

    R/2019/079

    Issued 6 March 2019

    The centre rear head restraint may not be to specification.

    Remedy:Check the head restraint and replace if necessary.

    Affects cars built Apr 2018 to Jun 2018

  4. A WELDED CONNECTION OF THE REAR SEAT BENCH MAY NOT HAVE BEEN CORRECTLY PERFORMED

    R/2018/357

    Issued 14 December 2018

    The rear back rest head restraint mounting is not correctly welded.

    Remedy:Check and replace rear back rest frame if required.

    Affects cars built May 2018 to Aug 2018

2 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Skoda Karoq MOT record

From 60,318 recorded MOT tests, 9.1% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20236495.5%20,021 mi
20228,5346.2%23,768 mi
202110,9279.2%31,809 mi
202012,18810.3%37,821 mi
201914,26510.0%45,785 mi
201813,7559.1%51,869 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. A tyre seriously damaged29.6%
  2. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements22.1%
  3. A shock absorber damaged to the extent that it does not function or showing signs of severe leakage21.4%
  4. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm17.9%
  5. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn9.0%

Figures cover every Skoda Karoq tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Skoda Karoq official figures

Median across 22 variants on sale, diesel, petrol.

Combined economy
46.5 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
142.5 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are the common faults with the Skoda Karoq?

Common faults include electrical issues, DSG gearbox problems, and suspension wear.

Which model years are the most reliable?

The 2018 and 2019 models tend to have better reliability ratings.

What should I check before buying a used Karoq?

Check the service history, look for signs of wear, and verify the MOT history.

Are there any recalls on the Skoda Karoq?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Sources