Volkswagen Arteon Has A Check Engine Light

Key Reasons for the Check Engine Light in Your Volkswagen Arteon and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 Volkswagen Arteon 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 Volkswagen Arteon 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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Volkswagen Arteon

When troubleshooting the check engine light in your Volkswagen Arteon, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by using an OBD-II scanner to read the error codes from the vehicle's computer system, as this will provide valuable insights into the specific issues at hand. If the light is illuminated shortly after refueling, check the fuel cap to ensure it is securely tightened, as a loose cap can often trigger the light due to evaporative emissions problems. If the check engine light is flashing, this indicates a more severe issue, such as an engine misfire, which requires immediate attention. Common causes of the check engine light in the Arteon include problems with the ignition system or the exhaust gas oxygen sensor, which can lead to irregular engine performance. By addressing these simpler issues first, you can often resolve the problem without delving into more complex diagnostics. Remember, ignoring the check engine light can lead to more significant damage and costly repairs, so it's crucial to take these warnings seriously and act promptly to maintain your vehicle's performance and safety.

What to Check When the Check Engine Light is On in a Volkswagen Arteon?

When the check engine light illuminates in your Volkswagen Arteon, it can be a source of concern, but understanding common problems can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose or damaged gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and trigger the light. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the air-fuel mixture and can affect engine performance if malfunctioning. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, spark plugs, or ignition coils can also cause the check engine light to activate. While some of these issues may be straightforward to diagnose and fix, others may require specialized tools and knowledge. Therefore, if you notice the light is blinking, it indicates a more severe problem that necessitates immediate professional attention to avoid further damage. By familiarizing yourself with these common problems, you can better assess the situation and determine whether a DIY approach is feasible or if you should consult a qualified technician for a thorough diagnosis.

Why is the Check Engine Light Important in a Volkswagen Arteon?

The Check Engine Light in your Volkswagen Arteon is not just a simple dashboard warning; it is a critical alert system that demands your immediate attention. Ignoring this light can lead to severe consequences, including significant engine damage and costly repairs. When the light illuminates, it serves as a diagnostic tool, indicating that something is amiss within the engine or its components. A steady light suggests a non-urgent issue, but a flashing light signals a serious problem, such as an engine misfire, which can cause extensive damage if left unaddressed. The urgency of these warnings cannot be overstated, as neglecting them may compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. By promptly investigating the cause of the Check Engine Light, you not only protect your investment but also ensure a safer driving experience. Therefore, if you see this warning, consider it a call to action—whether you choose to use an OBD2 diagnostic tool or consult a professional, addressing the issue swiftly is essential for maintaining the health of your Volkswagen Arteon.

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