Check Engine Light

I recently bought a used '96 Passat VR6-5spd. I've only have the vehicle for three weeks and today as I pulled into work I noticed the Check Engine Light was on. I also noticed that the mileage was exactly 93,000 miles. Is this just a coincidence and I actually may have an issue somewhere or does VW have it built in that the Check Engine Light will pop on at specific mileage intervals to remind you to take it in for service? Just seems awfully coincidental. The car appears to be running fine otherwise and does not display any apparent problems. No service work has been performed while I've had it and none was mentioned to me when I bought it.

CEL is not related to mileage. Take it to a larger parts chain like Advance or Autozone to get the codes read.

Thanks for the reply. I have a friend that works for a auto dealer in service that has an ODB-II reader and he said he'd read it for me for free so That's the plan. I'm thinking it's either emissions or maybe O2 related. Thanks again!

Had my friend pull the DTC code and it was P0411 (Secondary Air Injection System - Incorrect Flow Detected). That's the system that pumps air into the CAT correct? The fault was not present when he pulled the code. Is this a common occurence or is this a predecessor of bad things to come? Any advice from anyone?

The SAI system pumps air into the exhaust when the car is first started, before the computer system if fully functional. If the light comes on with that code there is a problem with the system. On cold start go under the hood & check that the electric motor runs. There is a fuse under the hood for it. Also check the pressure hose & connections at the electrical valve.

The Air Pump is running and I suspect that my problem may be related to the vaccum hoses. Looks like they are the original one and are fraying. I ordered some 3.5 mm silicone tubing with some stainless clamps. As soon as it comes in I'll replace it all and let you know what happens. Oh yeah, the light came back on again yesterday but I'm guessing it will be a P04111 again! PS: How long does that electric Air pump typically run when it's cold?

Only for a minute or two. Check the pressure hose & electric valve also. Valve should click when voltage is applied.