2001 passat engine light

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.

The car runs ok before this.

Any idea anyone?

Have it checked for codes.

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.

I thought the only thing that comes up is "Emissions Workshop" whenever there is a CEL...am I wrong? What else pops up?