The engine light came on for my 2001 V6 Passat yesterday. I initially drove it for a short distance and notice the light on. After a few hours, when I started the car up, the engine light is still on.
Did you 1) run out of gas lately? 2) Put in non VW spark plugs?
I did both of these and the engine lite came on after both. Also, I get a rough start every once and a while, and that also will cause the lite to come on.
I think it takes 10 on off cycles to clear the lite off.
Bob
What does the text readout say? (Where your trip computer usually displays)
Generally, a message that gives a first tier diagnostic indicator displays a message on this screen as you begin to drive the car. This may narrow down the problem possibilities to 300 from 3,000.