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melina_fire1

Citan system readiness issue

I have this weird issue with my 2014 Mercedes Citan, gasoline engine, around 45k kilometers on the clock. The check engine light is on, and the display says something about 'System readiness check incomplete'. I did a car diagnostics scan with one of those cheap OBD2 dongles recently, and I reckon that's what messed it up? I'm not a total noob but this onboard diagnostics stuff is doing my head in. Any ideas what could be going on with the exhaust system?

4 comment(s)

christopher_held43

The 'System readiness check incomplete' message often appears after an OBD2 scan, especially if the car's computer hasn't had enough time to re-run all its diagnostic routines. I had a similar issue with my old BMW after clearing some codes. The car needs to complete a 'drive cycle' for all the readiness monitors to set. This involves specific driving conditions that allow the computer to test various systems like the exhaust system and catalytic converter.

melina_fire1 (Author)

Right, a 'drive cycle', got it. So, what exactly does that involve? Is there some kind of magic formula I need to follow? And how long does it usually take? Should I just ignore the check engine light and hope it goes away?

christopher_held43

The drive cycle varies depending on the manufacturer, but it generally involves a cold start, idling for a specific period, followed by steady-speed driving on the highway and city streets. However, if the error is still present, I recommend going to a trusted workshop. It is likely that you need a computer reset of the car diagnostics system.

melina_fire1 (Author)

Thanks a lot! Turns out you were spot on. I took it to the local garage, they did a computer reset. Cost me absolutely nothing! The error is gone and the check engine light is off. I will try to avoid cheap OBD2 dongles in the future.

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