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Seat carsCode 5P

Seat Altea problems (2004–2015)

We have documented 5 engines and 2 gearboxes for the Seat Altea; the 1.2 and 1.4 TSI, the 1.9 TDI, the DSG7 DQ200 gearbox, the 2.0 TDI, the 1.6 TDI and the 09G (Aisin) gearbox have high or critical severity faults. None has a «Buy» verdict; the safest option is the 09G (Aisin) gearbox, with a «With caution» verdict.[1][2][3]

Outside the engine: Away from the engine, the most serious fault on the Altea is the Takata recall (Safety Gate/Rapex) of the driver's airbag on cars built from June 2012 to August 2013. The manufacturer also corrected, via the KBA, a poorly secured earth cable in the optional parking heater (fire risk) and a clutch pressure regulator that damaged the dual-mass flywheel in 2004-2006. Owners also cite early wear of the shock absorbers and brakes.[4][5][6]

Seat Altea (2004–2015)
Photo: Thomy3k · CC BY-SA 3.0 de · Wikimedia Commons. Reference image for this generation.
02468104.9out of 10

Seat Altea rating: low reliability

Calculated using only 33 documented faults and their sources: the most serious and frequent faults weigh more. How it is calculated

  • Engine4.5From 1.8 to 6.6 depending on the engine
  • Gearbox7.1Manual: 8.9 · DSG7 DQ200: 4.1 · 09G (Aisin): 8.2
  • Suspension7.21 fault and ITV (technical inspection)
  • Brakes7.2Technical inspection (ITV) only: 1.1 times the defects normal for its age
  • Tyres and wheels10.0No documented faults
  • Steering6.6Technical inspection (ITV) only: 1.4 times the defects normal for its age
  • Electrical system10.0No documented faults
  • Headlights and lights7.7Technical inspection (ITV) only: 0.9 times the defects normal for its age
  • Electronics and infotainment8.91 fault
  • Climate control7.11 fault
  • Bodywork and interior8.3Technical inspection (ITV) only: 0.7 times the defects normal for its age
  • Airbags and safety7.11 fault

Ranked 41 of 48 among the MPVs with solid evidence. See the ranking

The weak points of the Seat Altea

  1. 1Critical severity: Timing chain stretch and tensioner failure (EA111)1.2 and 1.4 TSI engine · repair €700–€1,400
  2. 2Critical severity: Piston breakage and oil consumption in the 1.4 TSI twincharger1.2 and 1.4 TSI engine
  3. 3Critical severity: Big-end bearing failure1.9 TDI engine
  4. 4High severity: Mechatronic unit failure: pressure accumulator, pump and cracked housingDSG7 DQ200 gearbox · repair €600–€2,200
  5. 5High severity: Seized or broken variable-geometry turbo1.9 TDI engine · repair €360–€900

Documented engines, from highest to lowest risk

The first label is the most serious fault affecting that engine in this car; the second, our verdict for the versions it is fitted to. Each engine's risk index is calculated only from the faults that affect this car (how we calculate it). We only show engines we have documented with sources: if yours does not appear, we have not analysed it yet. View all engines

See what to check before buying

Outside the engine

4 recalls and campaigns documented, the latest: Campaign 69FT: Takata driver's airbag. See the campaigns for the Seat Altea

55 sourcesHow we work

1.2 and 1.4 TSI

Volkswagen 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI (EA111 and EA211) · Petrol

In the Altea
2004–2015[7]
Names
1.2 TSI · 1.4 TSI
Faults that affect it
3 · 2 of high or critical severity
Risk index on this car
82
Very high risk

Verdict for the versions it uses

Faults that affect the Altea

Only those that affect the versions and years that this car used. The 1.2 and 1.4 TSI has 5 documented faults in total.

  1. Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentTimingTiming chain stretch and tensioner failure (EA111)On the 1.2 and 1.4 TSI EA111 (2006-2015) the chain can stretch and the tensioner fall short; if the chain jumps a tooth, the valves hit the pistons. Volkswagen admitted the defect in 2012 and revised the chain and tensioner between 2010 and 2011.Repair (garage): €700–€1,400Appears at around 30,000 km
  2. Critical severityFrequency: CommonCylinder head and blockPiston breakage and oil consumption in the 1.4 TSI twinchargerThe 1.4 TSI twincharger (turbo and supercharger) built up to 2012 can crack the pistons between the rings, with oil consumption, misfires and loss of compression. Volkswagen strengthened the pistons and rings on the 2012 CTHD engines.
  3. Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalTurboTurbo wastegate actuator failureThe electric actuator that regulates turbo pressure (wastegate) can seize or fail on the 1.2 TSI and the EA211 engines: the car lights up the EPC warning light and goes into limp mode. Sometimes the actuator alone is enough; if the valve is damaged, the turbo is replaced.

Altea 1.2 and 1.4 TSI pageAll versions and faults of the 1.2 and 1.4 TSI

1.9 TDI

Volkswagen 1.9 TDI (bomba rotativa and bomba-inyector PD) · Diesel

In the Altea
2004–2010[11]
Names
1.9 TDI 90 · 1.9 TDI 105
Faults that affect it
5 · 3 of high or critical severity
Risk index on this car
66
High risk

Verdict for the version it uses

  • 1.9 TDI unit injector 75-105 hp (2003-2010)2003–2010 · 75–105 hp · AVQ, BJB, BKC, BXE, BLS, BRU, BXF, BXJ, BSU

    With caution

    This version has an average reputation: fiches-auto and the garages we consulted point to the dual-mass flywheel and the turbo as its main weak points, and there are several documented cases of broken big-end bearings in the 105 hp Golf V and Octavia II.[3][12]

Faults that affect the Altea

Only those that affect the versions and years that this car used. The 1.9 TDI has 6 documented faults in total.

  1. Critical severityFrequency: CommonCylinder head and blockBig-end bearing failureOn the unit injector, above all in the 105 hp version, there are several documented cases of big-end bearings that wear and break, destroying the engine, with no manufacturer campaign or official incidence figure.Appears at around 138,000 km
  2. High severityFrequency: CommonTurboSeized or broken variable-geometry turboThe 1.9 TDI's variable-geometry turbo seizes through carbon build-up or ends up breaking after many kilometres; it appears repeatedly in all the models and outputs consulted, with cases from as early as 22,000 km.Repair (garage): €360–€900Appears at around 22,000 km
  3. Medium severityFrequency: Very frequentEmissions controlEGR valve clogged with carbonThe 1.9 TDI's EGR valve fills with carbon deposits, especially on short, urban journeys, and it is the fault that appears in the statistics for every model and output consulted, from the rotary pump to the unit injector.Repair (garage): €350–€450Appears at around 50,000 km
  4. High severityFrequency: OccasionalInjectionUnit injector tappet wear and injector wiring damageOn the unit injector system, the tappets that operate the injectors can wear if the oil is not changed on time, and the injector wiring can be damaged by contact with oil, causing misfires or loss of power.
  5. Medium severityFrequency: CommonClutchPremature wear of the dual-mass flywheel and clutchThe dual-mass flywheel and the clutch are, according to the garages we consulted, the fault most cited by 1.9 TDI owners across several generations: vibrations, idle noises and slipping that end up requiring both parts to be replaced together.Repair (garage): €900–€1,500Appears at around 80,000 km

Altea 1.9 TDI pageAll versions and faults of the 1.9 TDI

DSG7 DQ200 gearbox

Volkswagen Group DSG7 DQ200 (0AM/0CW)

In the Altea
2008–2015[13][14]
Names
1.2 TSI DSG · 1.6 TDI DSG
Faults that affect it
3 · 1 of high or critical severity
Risk index on this car
59
High risk

Verdict for the versions it uses

  • DSG7 DQ200 0AM (2008-2013)2008–2013 · 0AM

    With caution

    This is the generation with the most documented mechatronic and clutch problems, and the one that accounts for the service actions acknowledged by the manufacturer; it is only advisable if you verify the service history, if the 2013 oil campaign has already been carried out and if there are no fault codes stored in the gearbox control unit.[15][16][17][18]

  • DSG7 DQ200 0CW (since 2013)since 2013 · 0CW

    With caution

    It improves on the reliability of the 0AM, but does not eliminate its design weak points: it is still the same dry-clutch and mechatronic family, so you should carry out the same checks (history, stored fault codes, test drive) before buying.[13][15][19]

Faults that affect the Altea

  1. High severityFrequency: Very frequentElectronicsMechatronic unit failure: pressure accumulator, pump and cracked housingYes: the mechatronic unit is the DQ200's most cited weak point. Its pressure accumulator and hydraulic pump can fail because of a housing design defect, with fault warnings, limp mode or loss of drive; Volkswagen has acknowledged the problem with service actions and software updates.Repair (garage): €600–€2,200
  2. Medium severityFrequency: CommonClutchPremature dry clutch wear and judder when drivingYes: the DQ200's dry clutch wears out sooner than a wet one, especially in stop-start urban traffic. It warns of its condition with judder or jerking when pulling away, slipping when accelerating and, in advanced cases, a burning smell; specialists put its service life at between 120,000 and 180,000 km depending on use.Repair (garage): €500–€1,100Appears at around 120,000 km
  3. Medium severityFrequency: CommonTransmissionReverse and 6th gear selector fork bearing failureYes, mainly on 0AM units: the bearing that guides the reverse and 6th gear selector fork can wear and leave the fork unsupported, so that the car stops engaging those gears or loses reverse, with fault warnings in the instrument cluster.

Altea DSG7 DQ200 gearbox pageAll versions and faults of the DSG7 DQ200

2.0 TDI

Volkswagen 2.0 TDI (EA189, EA288 and EA288 evo) · Diesel

In the Altea
2004–2015[20][21]
Names
2.0 TDI 140 · 2.0 TDI 170
Faults that affect it
7 · 3 of high or critical severity
Risk index on this car
48
Moderate risk

Verdict for the versions it uses

  • 2.0 TDI pumpe-düse unit injector (EA188, 2003-2010)2003–2010 · 136–170 hp · AZV, BKD, BLB, BRE, BKP, BMN, BMR, BMA, BMM

    With caution

    Caradisiac points to numerous cases of a weak oil pump on the 140 hp 2.0 TDI, and MotorReviewer attributes to a defect in the pump shaft failures that start with the turbo. Check the oil pressure and the history.[22][23]

  • 2.0 TDI common rail EA189 (2008-2015)2008–2015 · 84–177 hp · CBDC, CFFD, CAAC, CBAB, CFFB, CFHC, CFHD, CAGA, CJCA, CBAC, CAHA, CBBB, CFGB, CFGC, CGLC

    With caution

    Worth buying if the emissions update has been done and, on 2009-2011 units, the diesel pipe campaign, and if there are no symptoms of EGR, particulate filter or turbo problems. Caradisiac finds it hard to recommend the Audi A4 2.0 TDI of this era because of its reliability problems.[24][25][26]

Faults that affect the Altea

Only those that affect the versions and years that this car used. The 2.0 TDI has 8 documented faults in total.

  1. Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalLubricationOil pump failure on the pumpe-düse 2.0 TDIOn the pumpe-düse 2.0 TDI (2003-2010), especially the 140 hp, there are numerous cases of an oil pump that does not provide enough pressure. If lubrication fails, the first thing to break is usually the turbo.
  2. Medium severityFrequency: Very frequentEmissions controlManipulated emissions software (dieselgate) and the subsequent updateThe 2.0 TDI EA189 (2008-2015) had software that reduced the EGR outside type-approval tests. Volkswagen fixes it free of charge with an update of about 30 minutes, which is not mandatory to pass the ITV (Spain's roadworthiness inspection, similar to the MOT) and whose long-term effects are still under discussion.Repair: €0
  3. High severityFrequency: OccasionalInjectionHigh-pressure pump, injectors and diesel leaks on the EA189On the 2.0 TDI EA189, the high-pressure pump can shed metal particles that force the pump and injectors to be replaced. In addition, 2009-2011 units were recalled for diesel leaks from the high-pressure pipes.
  4. High severityFrequency: OccasionalTurboTurbo with seized vanes or premature failureOn the 110 and 140 hp 2.0 TDI engines, the vanes of the variable-geometry turbo get dirty and seize and the engine loses power. On some 140 hp units the turbo has failed before 70,000 km.Repair (garage): €1,000
  5. Medium severityFrequency: CommonEmissions controlDirty EGR valve and EGR cooler leaksThe 2.0 TDI's EGR valve often fills with carbon, especially with short journeys, and causes smoke and loss of power. On the EA189, the EGR cooler can also lose coolant.Repair (garage): €100–€300
  6. Medium severityFrequency: CommonEmissions controlClogged particulate filter or faulty pressure sensorThe 2.0 TDI's particulate filter clogs if the car mostly makes short journeys, because it never gets to regenerate; sometimes the fault is just the differential pressure sensor. Cleaning it costs around €200 and replacing it, €800 to €3,000.Repair (garage): €800–€3,000
  7. Medium severityFrequency: CommonCoolingCoolant loss from the water pump or the coolersMany 2.0 TDI engines lose coolant. On the 150 hp EA288 the water pump is usually the culprit and, more rarely, the cylinder head; on the 140 hp EA189 the typical causes are the oil cooler or the EGR cooler.

Altea 2.0 TDI pageAll versions and faults of the 2.0 TDI

1.6 TDI

Volkswagen 1.6 TDI (EA189 and EA288) · Diesel

In the Altea
2009–2015[11][27][28]
Name
1.6 TDI 105 CV
Faults that affect it
5 · 2 of high or critical severity
Risk index on this car
45
Moderate risk

Verdict for the version it uses

  • 1.6 TDI common rail EA189 (2009-2015)2009–2015 · 75–105 hp · CAYA, CAYB, CAYC, CAYD, CAYE

    With caution

    The dieselgate scandal affects the whole series: check that the update (software and air flow stabiliser) has been done and that there are no symptoms of EGR, particulate filter, turbo or water pump problems.[24][29]

Faults that affect the Altea

  1. Medium severityFrequency: Very frequentEmissions controlManipulated emissions software (dieselgate) and air flow stabiliserThe 1.6 TDI EA189 engines (2009-2015, 75-105 hp) carried software that reduced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) outside homologation tests. Unlike the 2.0 TDI, Volkswagen corrects this engine with the software update plus the fitting of an air flow stabiliser.Repair: €0
  2. High severityFrequency: OccasionalTimingTiming belt and water pumpThe 1.6 TDI drives its timing with a toothed belt. It is common for the water pump to be changed together with the kit: if the pump seizes first, it can drag the belt with it, with a risk of breakage and serious cylinder head damage.Repair (garage): €400–€1,500
  3. High severityFrequency: OccasionalTurboVariable-geometry turbo seized or with playThe variable-geometry turbo on the 1.6 TDI EA189 can seize because of carbon deposits or wear on the shaft. The engine loses power, whistles or emits bluish smoke, and replacing the turbo costs around €1,000 if there is no additional damage.Repair (garage): €1,000
  4. Medium severityFrequency: CommonEmissions controlEGR valve clogged with carbon depositsThe EGR valve accumulates carbon deposits, especially on short urban trips, until it seizes and no longer seals or opens precisely. The engine loses power and jerks; cleaning the valve costs considerably less than replacing it.Repair (garage): €100–€1,000
  5. Medium severityFrequency: CommonEmissions controlClogged particulate filter (DPF)In urban use and on short trips, the particulate filter does not complete regeneration and becomes saturated with soot. The DPF warning light comes on and, if ignored, the car may enter limp mode with a loss of power.Repair (garage): €200–€3,000

Altea 1.6 TDI pageAll versions and faults of the 1.6 TDI

2.0 FSI

Volkswagen / Audi 2.0 FSI atmosférico (EA113) · Petrol

In the Altea
2004–2008[6]
Name
2.0 FSI
Faults that affect it
3
Risk index on this car
34
Moderate risk

Verdict for the version it uses

  • 2.0 FSI (EA113, 150 hp, 2003-2009)2003–2009 · 150 hp · AXW, BLR, BLX, BLY, BVX, BVY

    With caution

    Gebrauchtwagenberater.de singles out the 2.0 FSI, along with the naturally aspirated 1.6, as one of the most reliable petrol engines in the Audi A4 B7. Even so, two faults recur across several models and are worth checking before buying: carbon build-up on the intake valves and ignition coil failure.[1][3][30][31][32]

Faults that affect the Altea

  1. Medium severityFrequency: CommonIntakeCarbon build-up on the intake valvesBecause petrol is injected directly into the chamber, the 2.0 FSI does not wash the intake valves the way a port-injection engine does. Gebrauchtwagenberater.de documents carbon build-up in the Audi A3 8P and Passat B6, with higher consumption and less power as the mileage rises.
  2. Medium severityFrequency: CommonIgnitionIgnition coil failureIgnition coils are the engine fault that owners of this 2.0 FSI report most often, in models as different as the Golf V, Passat B6, Leon II and Altea. They cause an unstable idle, the engine running on fewer cylinders and, at times, difficulty starting.
  3. Low severityFrequency: OccasionalEmissions controlBlocked EGR valveOn the 2.0 FSI the EGR valve gets stuck or blocked fairly often, ending in a fault with the exhaust gas recirculation valve. It is a manageable repair with no risk to the engine, but it should be confirmed with diagnostics.

Altea 2.0 FSI pageAll versions and faults of the 2.0 FSI

09G (Aisin) gearbox

Safest option

Volkswagen 09G / Aisin TF-60SN (convertidor de par, 6 velocidades, «Tiptronic»)

In the Altea
2004–2015[33][34]
Faults that affect it
2 · 1 of high or critical severity
Risk index on this car
14
Low risk

Verdict for the version it uses

  • 09G (Aisin TF-60SN, 2003-2018)2003–2018 · 09G, 09M, 09K

    With caution

    It has a reputation for being more reliable than the DSG and the press documents hardly any systemic faults, but there are isolated cases of overheating or total gearbox failure, and as with any torque converter automatic of this age it is worth checking the oil maintenance history before buying.[1][2][3]

Faults that affect the Altea

  1. High severityFrequency: RareTransmissionTotal gearbox failure at low mileage, documented in an isolated caseA testimony from an Audi A3 8P 2.0 FSI with a Tiptronic gearbox says it became unusable at 100,000 km, with an expensive repair. It is the only total failure documented in this entry: there is no sign that it is a widespread problem, but it is worth checking carefully that it works properly before buying.
  2. Medium severityFrequency: RareTransmissionGearbox overheating under demanding use, documented in an isolated caseThere is one documented testimony of a Golf V 2.0 FSI whose automatic gearbox overheated at 49,500 km. It is an isolated case - we have found no similar testimonies for this gearbox in the other cars in this entry - but it is worth bearing in mind if you do a lot of driving in heat, heavy traffic or towing.

Altea 09G (Aisin) gearbox pageAll versions and faults of the 09G (Aisin)

Faults of the Seat Altea outside the engine

Suspension, brakes, tyres, electronics and the rest of the car. They occur with any engine.

What the MOT inspection finds on the Seat Altea

Official Dutch MOT (APK) inspection data: 5,234 inspections of 1,800 cars registered between 2004 and 2015, compared with cars of the same age.

  • Suspension and axles· counts in the score

    Defects in 13% of inspections; in cars of its age, 7.7%.

    More defects than average

  • Brakes· counts in the score

    Defects in 9.5% of inspections; in cars of its age, 8.4%.

    Average

  • Steering· counts in the score

    Defects in 4% of inspections; in cars of its age, 2.9%.

    More defects than average

  • Headlights and lights· counts in the score

    Defects in 22% of inspections; in cars of its age, 23.7%.

    Average

  • Rust and bodywork· counts in the score

    Defects in 0.6% of inspections; in cars of its age, 0.9%.

    Fewer defects than average

  • Exhaust and emissions

    Defects in 5% of inspections; in cars of its age, 4%.

    Average

  • Fluid leaks

    Defects in 6.9% of inspections; in cars of its age, 7%.

    Average

  • Glass, wipers and mirrors

    Defects in 4.3% of inspections; in cars of its age, 5.2%.

    Average

  • Tyres and wheels· depends mostly on maintenance

    Defects in 19.4% of inspections; in cars of its age, 17.4%.

    Average

The inspection measures wear and the defects visible at a periodic check, not engine or electronics failures. Source: RDW Open Data (public domain). How we calculate it · opendata.rdw.nl

Checklist for buying a used Seat Altea

Check the advert or the paperwork to see which engine the car has and go through its section. Each point comes from a documented fault; you can tick them off as you inspect.

If it has the 1.2 and 1.4 TSI (2004–2015)

Timing chain stretch and tensioner failure (EA111)

Critical severity

Piston breakage and oil consumption in the 1.4 TSI twincharger

Critical severity

Turbo wastegate actuator failure

Medium severity

If it has the 1.9 TDI (2004–2010)

Big-end bearing failure

Critical severity

Seized or broken variable-geometry turbo

High severity

EGR valve clogged with carbon

Medium severity

Unit injector tappet wear and injector wiring damage

High severity

Premature wear of the dual-mass flywheel and clutch

Medium severity

If it has the DSG7 DQ200 gearbox (2008–2015)

Mechatronic unit failure: pressure accumulator, pump and cracked housing

High severity

Premature dry clutch wear and judder when driving

Medium severity

Reverse and 6th gear selector fork bearing failure

Medium severity

If it has the 2.0 TDI (2004–2015)

Oil pump failure on the pumpe-düse 2.0 TDI

Critical severity

Manipulated emissions software (dieselgate) and the subsequent update

Medium severity

High-pressure pump, injectors and diesel leaks on the EA189

High severity

Turbo with seized vanes or premature failure

High severity

Dirty EGR valve and EGR cooler leaks

Medium severity

Clogged particulate filter or faulty pressure sensor

Medium severity

Coolant loss from the water pump or the coolers

Medium severity

If it has the 1.6 TDI (2009–2015)

Manipulated emissions software (dieselgate) and air flow stabiliser

Medium severity

Timing belt and water pump

High severity

Variable-geometry turbo seized or with play

High severity

EGR valve clogged with carbon deposits

Medium severity

Clogged particulate filter (DPF)

Medium severity

If it has the 2.0 FSI (2004–2008)

Carbon build-up on the intake valves

Medium severity

Ignition coil failure

Medium severity

Blocked EGR valve

Low severity

If it has the 09G (Aisin) gearbox (2004–2015)

Total gearbox failure at low mileage, documented in an isolated case

High severity

Gearbox overheating under demanding use, documented in an isolated case

Medium severity

Wear parts for the Seat Altea

Brakes, wiper blades, pollen filter and battery, searched for this model. The exact part number depends on the engine and year: confirm it with the registration plate or VIN.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Seat Altea reliable?

We have documented 5 engines and 2 gearboxes for the Seat Altea; the 1.2 and 1.4 TSI, the 1.9 TDI, the DSG7 DQ200 gearbox, the 2.0 TDI, the 1.6 TDI and the 09G (Aisin) gearbox have high or critical severity faults. None has a «Buy» verdict; the safest option is the 09G (Aisin) gearbox, with a «With caution» verdict. Away from the engine, the most serious fault on the Altea is the Takata recall (Safety Gate/Rapex) of the driver's airbag on cars built from June 2012 to August 2013. The manufacturer also corrected, via the KBA, a poorly secured earth cable in the optional parking heater (fire risk) and a clutch pressure regulator that damaged the dual-mass flywheel in 2004-2006. Owners also cite early wear of the shock absorbers and brakes.

Which Seat Altea engine is the most reliable?

Among the 5 engines and 2 gearboxes we have documented, none has a «Buy» verdict; the safest option is the 09G (Aisin) gearbox, with a «With caution» verdict. It has a reputation for being more reliable than the DSG and the press documents hardly any systemic faults, but there are isolated cases of overheating or total gearbox failure, and as with any torque converter automatic of this age it is worth checking the oil maintenance history before buying.[1][2][3]

What problems does the Seat Altea have apart from the engine?

Away from the engine, the most serious fault on the Altea is the Takata recall (Safety Gate/Rapex) of the driver's airbag on cars built from June 2012 to August 2013. The manufacturer also corrected, via the KBA, a poorly secured earth cable in the optional parking heater (fire risk) and a clutch pressure regulator that damaged the dual-mass flywheel in 2004-2006. Owners also cite early wear of the shock absorbers and brakes. The most important documented faults are: takata recall: the driver's airbag may fragment in a crash (airbags and safety, critical severity), a poorly secured earth cable in the optional parking heater could cause a fire (climate control, critical severity), the shock absorbers and their joints can wear out before 50,000 km (suspension, medium severity) and a miscalculated clutch pressure regulator could damage the dual-mass flywheel (gearbox and clutch, high severity).[4][5][6]

What faults does the Seat Altea have?

The most important by severity and frequency, on the engines we have documented, are: timing chain stretch and tensioner failure (EA111) (1.2 and 1.4 TSI, critical severity), piston breakage and oil consumption in the 1.4 TSI twincharger (1.2 and 1.4 TSI, critical severity), big-end bearing failure (1.9 TDI, critical severity), mechatronic unit failure: pressure accumulator, pump and cracked housing (DSG7 DQ200, high severity) and seized or broken variable-geometry turbo (1.9 TDI, high severity).

What is the best year to buy a Seat Altea?

According to our rating by year, the best are 2005 and 2004 (6.8/10); the worst rated is 2012 (5.0/10). Each year's rating counts only the engines sold that year and the faults that affect those units: open each year to see what changes.

Does the Seat Altea have recalls?

Yes: we have documented 4 campaigns for the Seat Altea, such as campaign 69FT: Takata driver's airbag (2024). Check with your VIN at the official service centre whether yours has been done.[4]

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. VW Passat B6 – Bekannte Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 25 September 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  2. Fiabilité Audi A3 (2003-2012), pannes et témoignagesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  3. Fiabilité Volkswagen Golf V (2003-2008), pannes et témoignagesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  4. Seat Altea (2012 – 2013): recall by Takata airbagscar-recalls.eu · Other source · published 4 October 2024 · consulted 27 September 2026
  5. Seat Altea (2004 – 2015) | Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  6. Tous les problèmes sur Seat Altea 2004-2015 (fiabilité, 174 témoignages)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  7. VW 1.2 TSI & 1.4 TSI Steuerkette: VW kassiert Kulanz-VersprechenAUTO BILD · Motoring press · published 1 June 2018 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  8. Probleme und Schwachstellen beim 1.2 TSI, 1.4 TSI (EA111)Gebrauchtwagenberater · Other source · published 1 September 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  9. ADAC Pannenstatistik 2019 (anexo: defectos por encima de la media por modelo)ADAC e.V. · Reliability study · published 2019 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  10. Bei älteren VW 1.2 TSi-Motoren: Gefahr einer Längung der Steuerkettefebi bilstein (blog técnico) · Technical documentation · published 28 January 2022 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  11. List of discontinued Volkswagen Group diesel enginesWikipedia (inglés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
  12. Tous les problèmes sur Škoda Octavia (2004-2012)fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  13. VW, Skoda & Seat DSG Probleme: alle 6 und 7-Gang DQ GetriebeCarwiki · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  14. Fallo en la mecatrónica de la caja DSG: Ojo a estos modelosGT Autos · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  15. DSG7 DQ200: Guía Técnica Definitiva (P17BF, Mecatrónica y Soluciones)STR Performance · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  16. Doppelkupplungsgetriebe: DQ200 - Das große Problem des VW-KonzernsHandelsblatt · General press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  17. Probleme mit VW-DSG: Kein offizieller Rückruf von VolkswagenAuto Bild · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  18. 7 Speed DSG Gearbox Problems | Mechatronic Faults | DSG Clutch PackEco Torque · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026
  19. Reliability of the 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission in used cars: our VAG buying guideEuro Racing Parts · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026
  20. Los SEAT León y Altea se despiden del TDI "viejo"Motorpasión · Motoring press · published 23 November 2010 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  21. Lista provisional de coches afectados por los TDI de VolkswagenMotor.es · Motoring press · published 25 September 2015 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  22. Audi A6 III (2004-2011) : la fiche express fiabilité de CaradisiacCaradisiac · Motoring press · published 4 July 2022 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
  23. VW/Audi 2.0 TDI PD EA188 Engine Specs, Problems, Reliability, Oil, InfoMotorReviewer · Other source · consulted 26 September 2026
  24. Información sobre el motor EA189Volkswagen España · Manufacturer · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  25. Maxi-fiche fiabilité - Audi A4 (2007-2015) : belle, mais capricieuseCaradisiac · Motoring press · published 1 April 2023 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
  26. Used Skoda Yeti reviewAuto Express · Motoring press · published 15 June 2016 · consulted 26 September 2026
  27. VW EA189Wikipedia (alemán) · Other source · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  28. SEAT Altea - WikipediaWikipedia · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026
  29. Escándalo de emisiones contaminantes de vehículos VolkswagenWikipedia (español) · Other source · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  30. Audi A4 B7 (8E) – Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  31. Audi A3 8P: Typische Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  32. Fiabilité Volkswagen Passat - pannes moteur, boîte, électronique...Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  33. List of Aisin transmissionsWikipedia (en) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
  34. Seat LeónWikipedia (de) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  35. Problema en la distribución en motores TSi del Grupo VAGBlog Mecánicos · Other source · published 13 February 2014 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  36. VW Konzern 1,4 FSI, TFSI – Kolbenschäden, Ölverbrauch, Kompression, SteuerkettengeräuscheWild Motoren (taller, Alemania) · Other source · published 24 June 2018 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  37. Volkswagen CAVD 1.4 Litre TSI Engine ProblemsGrant Walker (taller, Australia) · Other source · published 28 June 2018 · consulted 26 September 2026
  38. SEAT IbizaWikipedia · Other source · consulted 26 September 2026
  39. EPC-Leuchte: LadedruckstellerSEAT Ibiza Forum (foro) · Owners' forum · published January 2016 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  40. Tous les problèmes sur Škoda Octavia (1997-2004)fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  41. Les TDI sont-ils fiables ?fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · published 15 December 2016 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  42. Tous les problèmes sur Audi A3 (1996-2003)fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  43. Safety Recall 34F6/4V - 7-Speed DSG Auto Transmission w/Tiptronic (DQ-200 Direct-Shift Gearbox), 2013-2014 MY Volkswagen Jetta HybridVolkswagen of America / NHTSA (recall 13V-568) · Official body · published 2013 · consulted 26 September 2026
  44. NHTSA Recall 19V-866: Clutch Can Fail to Engage Causing a Loss of Power (Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid 2013-2015, DQ200)National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) · Official body · published 18 December 2019 · consulted 26 September 2026
  45. ¿Se verá afectado mi Volkswagen diésel no actualizado en la ITV?Motor.es · Motoring press · published 20 May 2018 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  46. Used Volkswagen Golf (Mk6, 2009-2013) reviewAuto Express · Motoring press · published 15 November 2016 · consulted 26 September 2026
  47. Used Skoda Superb (Mk2, 2008-2015) review and buyer's guideAuto Express · Motoring press · published 9 March 2018 · consulted 26 September 2026
  48. Un Volkswagen Tiguan en occasion : les meilleures versions par budget, et la fiabilitéCaradisiac · Motoring press · published 1 April 2025 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
  49. Cómo saber si el turbo está roto o a punto de romperseMotor.es · Motoring press · published 4 May 2020 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  50. Fiabilité du Volkswagen Touran 2 : la maxi-fiche occasion de CaradisiacCaradisiac · Motoring press · published 3 May 2018 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
  51. Fiabilité de l'Audi A3 (3e génération) : la maxi-fiche occasion de CaradisiacCaradisiac · Motoring press · published 19 December 2018 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
  52. Bomba de agua del coche: la avería de más de 1.500 euros que arrastra la correa de distribuciónMotor16 · Motoring press · published 21 September 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  53. Bomba de agua del coche, qué es, función y cuándo cambiarlaAutopista.es · Motoring press · published 10 June 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  54. Cuánto cuesta sustituir el filtro de partículas de un coche diéselDiariomotor · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  55. Filtro de partículas: ¿mejor limpiar o sustituir?Autofácil · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish