VW Up Display Error, Diagnosing System Readiness Fix

Having experienced something very similar with my 2014 VW Polo TSI, I can share some relevant insights as someone with moderate experience in car maintenance and diagnostics. The symptoms you describe match what happened to my car after having the onboard diagnostics system read. The error message appeared because the system readiness monitors needed to complete their self-tests after the OBD scan cleared the previous data. In my case, I just needed to complete a proper drive cycle to reset all system readiness monitors. This took about 30-40 minutes of mixed driving, including: Starting with a cold engine, Idling for 2-3 minutes, Normal city driving for 10 minutes, Highway driving at steady speed, Several acceleration and deceleration cycles The error message disappeared after completing this drive cycle. Total cost was 0€ since no actual repairs were needed, just driving to complete the system checks. To better assist you, could you share: What specific error message appears? Did you recently have any repairs or maintenance done? Have you scanned for specific check engine codes? What driving conditions trigger the error? This would help determine if your situation requires additional troubleshooting beyond a basic drive cycle.

I had my latest service done just last week and can confirm seeing similar error messages in my Up. After the drive cycle test suggested in the previous reply, most issues cleared up. However, I still noticed the exhaust system warning persisting even after the OBD readiness monitors reset. A workshop scan revealed a faulty O2 sensor that was preventing proper emissions test completion. The repair cost was 180€ including parts and labor. The check engine light finally cleared after replacing the sensor and completing another drive cycle. My case shows that while drive cycles often help reset system monitors, sometimes there are underlying issues that need proper diagnosis and repair.

Based on your experience with your VW Up, having the O2 sensor replaced is a typical solution when the exhaust system warning persists after drive cycles. The onboard diagnostics system is quite sensitive to oxygen sensor performance. In my case with my Up, I also discovered that completing the drive cycle alone wasnt enough. After the initial OBD readiness checks, I had similar lingering exhaust warnings. The workshop found two issues: a failing O2 sensor and a small exhaust leak near the manifold. Total repair costs came to 220€. A key observation: system readiness monitors often identify genuine problems rather than just needing resets. When exhaust-related codes persist after proper drive cycles, its usually pointing to a legitimate emissions system issue that requires repair. For anyone dealing with similar issues: 1. Start with a drive cycle to reset system readiness 2. If warnings persist, get a professional OBD scan 3. Pay attention to exhaust system components, especially O2 sensors 4. Complete another drive cycle after repairs The good news is these repairs typically resolve both the error messages and any emissions test concerns permanently.

Thanks for sharing those repair details, your success with the O2 sensor replacement matches what other Up owners have reported. After getting the 180€ repair done and completing that final drive cycle, the car has been running perfectly with no more error codes or emissions test issues. The workshop mechanic explained that O2 sensor failures are fairly common in these models after about 80,000km. When they fail, they often trigger those persistent exhaust warnings that wont clear even after OBD readiness checks and computer resets. For anyone else seeing similar symptoms in their Up: while the initial drive cycle test is worth trying, dont ignore ongoing exhaust system warnings. A proper car diagnostics scan can quickly identify if you have a bad O2 sensor like I did. Getting it fixed properly the first time saves hassle during future vehicle inspections. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences, it helped confirm I was dealing with a known issue that had a straightforward fix. The car runs noticeably better now that the sensor is working correctly.