check engine light

Passat 2001. 6cyl., 5spd., 45,000mls. Anyone know how to turn off the 'Check Engine Light'? There is no change in performance(still good).
I changed the air filter but still persists. If I were to find the problem would the light go off or would it need to be reset? Owners manual also states that the check engine light usually indicates emission problems (ex. catalytic converter).
:banghead: There is something in the owner's manual about purging from memory.

You need a scanner to read & reset the engine codes. If you don't want to get it professionally diagnosed, then take it to Autozone as they will usually scan & reset for free. There is a problem somewhere and the severity can vary but it will not pass emission testing with the problem (not to mention possibly damage the engine).

You need a scanner to read & reset the engine codes. If you don't want to get it professionally diagnosed, then take it to Autozone as they will usually scan & reset for free. There is a problem somewhere and the severity can vary but it will not pass emission testing with the problem (not to mention possibly damage the engine).


Thanks Boschmann!
I went online looking for a good/inexpensive OBD2 scanner. Saw a few on ebay, also saw one specifically designed for Volks/Audi cars. Who makes a good, affordable one with a good software interface?

If you only want it for the VW then I'd wouldn't go OBD-II. Generic scanners will be ble to read the basic codes from anyy post-'96 vehcle, but often only provide a fraction of the information available, particularly with VW and other european makes. A VAG-COM simulator for PC can read all VW factory data fields and codes (including ABS, air bag, body controls, radio....). Whichever you decide on also consider a Bentley manual as scanners only provide basic data, manuals provide the information needed to interpret it.