Volkswagen Check Engine Light Reset Steps

Volkswagen Check Engine Light Reset Steps
VW Service Center
VW Service Specials

So, you're wondering how to reset Volkswagen check engine light warnings? Here, we've detailed what you need to know before attempting to reset these indicators yourself. Of course, for those who are less auto-savvy, our specialists at Gunther Volkswagen of Daytona Beach can diagnose and treat your vehicle for you. Peace of mind awaits at our service center in Daytona Beach. Read on to learn more about what your check engine light means and how you can reset it.

Is Your Check Engine Light On? Here's What It Means

A check engine light can be on for myriad reasons. We've taken the liberty of detailing a few of the most common situations at play when we see one of these indicators appear on your dash.

Steady Check Engine Light

Most often, you'll see the check engine light as a steadily illuminated icon on your dashboard. This typically suggests that there's an engine control malfunction, meaning that the automobile's computer system detects an inaccuracy that it can't identify. This can be caused by a number of factors, including but not limited to the following:

  • Loose gas cap
  • Low battery charge
  • Worn spark plugs
  • Failing oxygen sensors
  • Malfunctioning airflow sensors
  • Faulty emissions or exhaust systems
  • Defective transmission

Blinking Check Engine Light

A blinking check engine light typically denotes a serious issue, such as active misfiring. Misfires can cause damage to your catalytic converter and shouldn't be taken lightly. If a check engine light blinks and goes away, there could be an electrical issue. However, the light may only blink when a misfire is happening, meaning the issue isn't necessarily resolved when it goes away.

Along with misfires, it can also mean engine damage, leakage, or other serious problems. Whenever you see this, you should safely pull over and turn off your vehicle immediately, then schedule an appointment with a certified Volkswagen service center, such as ours in Daytona Beach, FL.

Check Engine Light After Battery Change

It's common for the check engine light to come on after a battery change. Oftentimes, it may just be that the automobile's computer system needs to recalibrate itself to the new battery, in which case the light should turn off on its own after doing so. However, if the problem persists, it could suggest a loose connection. If your check engine light remains on after a battery change, don't hesitate to contact the experts at Gunther Volkswagen of Daytona Beach.

Is Your Check Engine Light On? Here's What It Means

How To Reset Check Engine Light Indicators

We understand how stressful it can be to have warning indicators on your dashboard. Below, we've detailed what to do to identify the cause of your check engine light and reset it. Note that the best option is to rely on a certified service provider, such as our dealership in Daytona Beach, FL.

  1. Identify the Problem: More often than not, a check engine light comes on for a reason. It may be something easy to resolve, or it could be the result of more significant issues. For this reason, a check engine light should never be turned off unless you are certain you've corrected the problem. You can use a diagnostic scanner to identify the fault codes in the engine, giving you a clear idea of what the problem is.
  2. Reset the Check Engine Light – Option 1: If you're able to identify and correct the problem on your own, great! Many modern diagnostic tools and software allow you to erase the fault code after you've addressed the underlying problem – as long as the issue was successfully corrected, this should turn off the check engine light.
  3. Reset the Check Engine Light – Option 2: You may also be able to reset Volkswagen check engine light warnings temporarily by disconnecting your negative battery terminal for 30 seconds to a minute. Then, reconnect and tighten the cable. This should reset the vehicle's computer system and temporarily disengage the light. However, it's not a permanent solution, as the light is likely to come back on if you haven't addressed the issue.
  4. Reset Check Engine Light – Best Option: Bring your Volkswagen into our service center for a thorough inspection. We can diagnose your engine fault codes using state-of-the-art, OEM-approved tools. Our expert technicians will then service your vehicle to address the problem at its source, and we'll handle the check engine light reset for you once the problem is resolved!

Disclaimer: While you can attempt to diagnose and correct your vehicle's problem yourself, we always recommend leaving it up to the professionals. Improperly treating your car or using aftermarket products could result in your warranty being voided. Here at Gunther Volkswagen of Daytona Beach, our certified technicians are factory-trained and only use genuine Volkswagen components when servicing your VW automobile.

Volkswagen Check Engine Lights

As you might expect, the Volkswagen check engine light resembles an engine. With that in mind, here are a few popular models and where you're likely to see the check engine light on their dashboards:

  • Volkswagen Tiguan Check Engine Light: The Volkswagen Tiguan check engine light is generally within the RPM gauge.
  • Volkswagen Atlas Check Engine Light: Some Volkswagen Atlas SUVs have their check engine lights located at the bottom right of the dashboard.
  • Volkswagen Jetta Check Engine Light: Similar to Tiguan SUVs, the Volkswagen Jetta sedan's check engine light is typically located near the RPM monitor.
Volkswagen Check Engine Lights

We'll Reset Volkswagen Check Engine Light Indicators for You

Our Gunther Volkswagen of Daytona Beach specialists can help alleviate your stress when a pesky check engine light warning pops up on your dashboard. Reach out to us if you see this indicator – our team can give you all the details you need to make informed decisions about automotive care, thoroughly investigate to see what the issue is, and reset Volkswagen check engine light warnings after we perform maintenance. Schedule your upkeep appointment today online through our intuitive service form or reach out to us at 866-945-4530.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset the check engine light on a Volkswagen?

There's no reset button for a VW check engine light, but you can reset the light via diagnostic software or temporarily by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for 30-60 seconds. Alternatively, our expert technicians can reset a check engine light in a Volkswagen using advanced diagnostic tools after we've addressed the problem. We always recommend relying on factory-trained professionals to keep your car healthy and your warranty intact.

Can I reset the check engine light myself?

You may be able to temporarily reset the check engine light yourself by briefly disconnecting the negative battery terminal or using at-home diagnostic tools. However, without addressing the cause of the problem, the light will eventually return. Typically, service specialists can reset dashboard warnings using advanced diagnostic equipment after performing maintenance. Call our dealership to schedule your service appointment and discuss how to approach your vehicle's check engine light.

Can you reset the check engine light without disconnecting the battery?

Generally, you won't be able to reset a check engine light without disconnecting the battery unless you have advanced – and often pricey – diagnostic tools. The best way to reset your Volkswagen check engine light is to schedule an appointment at a certified service center, such as ours in Daytona Beach, FL. Our team can treat your vehicle, reset the light, and get you back on the road.