2017 Audi S7 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Audi S7: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Audi S7 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Audi S7 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2017 Audi S7?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Audi S7, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional alerts or warning lights, as these can provide further insights into the issue. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can help identify the problem area. Additionally, inspect the levels of vital fluids such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, since low levels can also activate the check engine light. Don't overlook the importance of examining the wiring and connections in the engine bay for any signs of damage or corrosion, which could lead to electrical issues. If, after these checks, the problem remains unresolved, it may be time to consult a qualified mechanic or dealership for a more comprehensive diagnosis. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Audi S7?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2017 Audi S7, it indicates that the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system has detected an issue that requires attention. One of the most common reasons for this warning is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel evaporation and affect the vehicle's emissions system. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which is crucial for monitoring exhaust gases and optimizing fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, as it is responsible for reducing harmful emissions. Other potential issues include a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, and worn spark plugs or ignition coils that may cause engine misfires. Furthermore, a faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can also contribute to the check engine light activation. It is important for DIY enthusiasts to diagnose and address these issues promptly to ensure the vehicle operates efficiently and to prevent more serious damage down the line.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Audi S7?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Audi S7, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals that there may be underlying issues with your engine or emissions system that require immediate attention. Ignoring this alert can lead to escalating problems, ranging from minor malfunctions to severe engine damage, which can be costly to repair. Moreover, continuing to drive with the check engine light on poses safety risks, as it may affect your vehicle's performance and reliability. For DIY enthusiasts, it is advisable to use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the issue promptly, allowing you to identify the root cause and take appropriate action. By addressing the check engine light without delay, you can prevent further damage, ensure the safety of your vehicle, and maintain its optimal performance.

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