Re: Check Engine Light

Usually when the "Check engine" light comes on, it's a problem with the O2 sensor.

Although on my '85 Jetta, the light came on at about 35,000 miles. It was a pre-determined mileage thing that was supposed to indicate time for the O2 sensor change.

I just re-set the light (button behind the coolant overflow tank) and went on my merry way.

The '01 Golf is probably a little more sophisticated than the '85, so that method more than likely doesn't apply.

Try asking over at the water-cooled group.

Your vehicle is equipped with a Motronic Engine Management system. The system monitors about 500 different systems operations/functions, and it controls the operating parameters of your vehicle, as well as acting as a hub for the various sub systems. The "Check Engine" Light actually is referred to as a Malfunction Indicator Light. It signifies an issue with one of the vehicle systems. It can be as simple as a loose gas cap, or as severe as a plugged catalytic converter (light would be blinking). I have seen cases where a sporadic failure in the ignition, O2 sensor, and Mass Air Flow systems have caused a warning light to be triggered. However, there are so many possibilities for why the light came on that you are further ahead to go to your local VW dealer and have the VAG 1551 or VAS 5052 connected to find what is causing the problem.

Hope this helps,

snipped-for-privacy@webtv.net (C ~) wrote in news:14520-3F06204C-104@storefull-

Just curious...what does one of those "scanners" cost for the home mechanic?

You can get basic ones that simply blink the check engine light and you count the number of blinks to find the code...these run about $40.00. Or, go to

- Peter