Audi is not only a stylish and high-performing vehicle to drive; it has quite the intuitive system in it as well. With complex and technologically advanced computer systems keeping the Audi running smoothly, drivers can expect a warning when something is wrong with their prized vehicle. One of the most common indicators of a problem in your Audi is an illuminated check engine light.
Though taking your Audi in for regular maintenance is one of the best ways to keep it running properly, things can still happen within your car. Therefore, if your check engine light is on, it’s best not to ignore it for too long. You can avoid major problems by simply taking your car in for a checkup once you notice this light is illuminated.
In this article, we’ll go over the basic function of the check engine light, what may be happening in your car if it’s on, and what to do to get the issue repaired.
The Check Engine Light
The function of your Audi’s check engine light is simple: it warns you that you should get your engine inspected by a professional. It functions through receiving information from a number of electronic sensors within your Audi’s engine that communicate details of what might be wrong with your car.
Why Your Check Engine Light is Illuminated
There are a number of reasons that your check engine light can turn on. Some of them are simple problems with easy fixes, while others can wreak havoc on your car if left unchecked. If the check engine light in your Audi turns on, it could be due to any of the following problems:
- Loose gas cap: This is a rather insignificant problem in the grand scheme of your car. It may require replacement of the gas cap or you may simply need to stop driving and re-tighten your Audi’s gas cap.
- Catalytic converter damage: The catalytic converter is what reduces emissions from your Audi’s exhaust pipe in an effort to decrease pollution levels. If its efficiency level is below the threshold, oxygen sensors will detect this and send a trouble code to your car’s computer that then illuminates your check engine light. This fix can be easy or difficult depending on what’s wrong with the converter.
- Oxygen sensor damage: This is a central cause of an illuminated check engine light in your Audi. If the oxygen sensor is damaged, your car can’t sense the fuel-to-air ratio in your engine, which can be a huge problem if left unchecked.
- Bad spark plugs: It is critical that your Audi’s spark plugs function properly. If they are encountering problems, it could cause your engine to misfire or produce other problems that can damage your vehicle as well as put you and other drivers in danger. Thus, if your spark plugs are faulty, your car’s check engine light will let you know right away.
- Bad ignition coil: A faulty ignition coil will definitely cause your check engine light to illuminate. The ignition coil is essentially responsible for powering your car’s battery, transforming the battery’s low voltage to thousands of volts that power your Audi. If your ignition coil is faulty, you can experience misfires, rough idling, a reduction in acceleration and overall power, and reduced fuel efficiency. Your car will definitely let you know through the check engine light if something is wrong with this part of your Audi.
DART Auto
Located off of Monaco Street in Denver, Colorado, 
DART Auto is CO’s premier German automotive repair shop. Servicing the entire Denver area as well as Englewood, Littleton, and Centennial, CO, DART Auto is your solution for check engine light problems in your Audi.
In addition to resolving check engine light problems, DART Auto offers the following services for your Audi:
- Diagnostic inspections
- Engine repairs
- Factory scheduled services
- Fluid checks and changes
- Mileage specific maintenance
- Oil changes
- …and more
If you find yourself experiencing any of the above problems with your Audi along with an illuminated check engine light, take your car in to see us today. Our trained and ASE certified mechanics are happy to inspect your car.
