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selinatiger10

Audi Q7 Check Light Persists After OBD Reset

Check engine light stays on after repair, computer reset issue? Just got my 2020 Audi Q7 (gas, 106505km) back from the shop but still having issues. The check engine light remains on and theres an error message in the dashboard display. The mechanic said something about system readiness not being complete, but Im not convinced. Has anyone dealt with similar problems after repairs? How long should I wait before the OBD readiness monitors complete their drive cycle? Getting worried about going back to that mechanic and would appreciate any feedback on what to check first.

4 comment(s)

marvinsilver10

As an Audi Q5 (2017) owner, I encountered a similar situation after a throttle body replacement. The check engine light persistence is common after repairs and typically relates to onboard diagnostics needing time to complete their monitoring cycles. System readiness monitors need specific driving conditions to complete their checks. This process usually takes between 50-100km of mixed driving, including: Highway cruising at steady speed, City driving with stops and starts, Engine reaching full operating temperature Your mechanics explanation about incomplete system readiness is likely accurate. This is a normal part of car diagnostics after repairs or when the battery has been disconnected. The vehicle inspection monitors need time to verify all emissions-related systems are working correctly. Key points to remember: Avoid rushing back to the mechanic immediately, Complete normal driving patterns for several days, If the light remains after 150km of driving, then request a follow-up diagnostic scan This situation is not typically serious unless accompanied by performance issues. Most emission test stations are aware of this reset period and often allow for 2-3 incomplete monitors during testing.

selinatiger10 (Author)

Thanks for your detailed reply about the system readiness monitors. I had nearly identical issues with my Q7 last month after an exhaust system repair. The check engine light drove me crazy for a few days. Quick question, do you remember roughly how much you paid for the throttle body fix? My mechanic quoted me 800 Euro for a similar job next month. Also, has everything been working fine since your repair, or did you notice any other problems? Just curious in case I need similar work done. Its helpful to know what others paid and if the fix actually solved their issues long-term.

marvinsilver10

Since that throttle body repair on my Q7, everything has been running perfectly. The system readiness check incomplete status resolved itself after following the normal driving patterns, just as expected. The onboard diagnostics confirmed all systems were working correctly after about 80km of mixed driving. About the cost, I was fortunate the throttle body repair was covered under my extended warranty, so I paid 0 Euro. However, 800 Euro sounds reasonable for this type of work considering parts and labor. The vehicle inspection afterward showed all emissions-related components working properly, and I havent had any check engine lights since then. Getting the OBD readiness monitors to complete their cycles was initially concerning, but its just part of the normal diagnostic process after such repairs. If youre quoted 800 Euro for the job, Id say thats within the typical range for this type of repair on our model.

selinatiger10 (Author)

Thanks for the input. Here's how my situation turned out: Took the car back to the mechanic yesterday since the check engine light stayed on for over a week. Turns out there was a small vacuum leak they missed during the initial repair. The onboard diagnostics kept flagging it even after the system reset. The good news, they fixed it under warranty at no extra cost. The vehicle inspection confirmed everything is working properly now. No more warning lights or error messages after driving about 100km. Lesson learned, while its normal for check engine lights to stay on briefly after repairs while systems reset, persistent warnings usually mean something still needs attention. Getting a proper car diagnostics scan helped identify the real issue. Still considering that throttle body repair next month. The 800 Euro quote seems fair based on what others paid. At least now I know what to expect with the post-repair monitoring cycles and emissions test requirements.

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