Check Engine Light After VW Spacefox Inspection

Had a similar situation on my 2015 VW Golf TSI after a computer reset was done during routine maintenance. The system readiness message appears when the car hasnt completed its full drive cycle to verify emissions systems are working properly. For the onboard diagnostics to complete all tests, you need to: Drive at steady speed on highway for 15 minutes, Do several stops from 50km/h, Let engine idle for 5 minutes when warm, Drive normally for about 100km total This isnt necessarily a repair issue. After a battery disconnect or car diagnostics scan, the computer needs to relearn and verify all emissions control systems are functioning. Give it a few days of regular driving before assuming anything is broken. If the check engine light stays on after completing the drive cycle, then have a mechanic check specifically for: Oxygen sensor function, Catalytic converter efficiency, Fuel system pressure, Evaporative emissions system The readiness monitors should reset themselves without any repairs needed in most cases. Only return to the shop if the warning lights remain after driving normally for a week.

Thanks for explaining that. My 2012 Spacefox actually had this exact problem last month. After running the drive cycle as suggested, most codes cleared but I still had a check engine light. Turned out my exhaust system had a small leak near the catalytic converter that was throwing off the emissions readings. The car diagnostics showed incomplete OBD readiness even after driving, which made me nervous about passing the next vehicle inspection. Did you end up needing any repairs in your case? Would be helpful to know the cost if you had work done. Also curious if everything has been working fine since or if you noticed any related issues pop up later.

After seeing my mechanic last week about the incomplete system readiness, I can confirm everything was resolved without any repair costs. The onboard diagnostics showed all monitors were ready after they properly reset the computer. In my case, it turned out the OBD readiness monitors just needed a proper reset and complete drive cycle, no actual repairs were needed. The mechanic ran a full diagnostic scan which showed no underlying issues with the emissions system or catalytic converter like you experienced. Since the computer reset, all systems are functioning normally on my Golf TSI. The check engine light has stayed off and the readiness tests are complete. This is good news for passing future emissions tests. Sometimes these readiness codes can seem worrying but often just need time to complete their self-checks after any diagnostics work. Your exhaust leak situation was different since it actually required repairs. The incomplete readiness in that case was a valid warning of an emissions system problem. Just shows how important it is to follow up when onboard diagnostics indicate potential issues.

Following up on my original post about the check engine light situation, wanted to share how it all turned out. The car diagnostics showed that catalytic converter issue was legit. Took it to a different mechanic who actually spent time properly testing the exhaust system. Final repair bill came to 450€ including: Replacing damaged exhaust flex pipe, Resealing converter connection, Full emissions system check, New oxygen sensor After repairs and completing a proper drive cycle, all the OBD readiness monitors finally showed complete. The check engine light is now off and the car runs much smoother. No more exhaust noise either. Money well spent compared to my first mechanic who just kept resetting the computer without fixing the actual problem. Lesson learned, when onboard diagnostics show persistent issues, find someone who will properly diagnose rather than just clear codes. Ready for my next inspection now and confident everything will pass. Thanks for helping me understand what was really going on with those readiness monitors.