1996 Volkswagen Jetta check engine light

Tiny
DHACKS
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 147,000 MILES
I recently acquired a 96 jetta that seems to run fine but has high mileage. Last night the check engine light came on and I was able to drive roundtrip about 35 miles. The water temp. Was stable at 190 degrees, the car does seem to burn a little oil which I hope to repair soon. What items of concern occure from the check engine light?
Thursday, July 10th, 2008 AT 9:02 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
First thing you need to do is have the codes read, Autozone does it free, Post the results with the code number(s). Even if the service engine light is not on, there should be freeze frame data stored.
If it won't make it to Autozone, buy a cheap scanner, they can be had for 30-40 dollars, a good investment, since they cover all cars sold in the USA from 96 on.
If the light is blinking, it means possible damage to the converter. Service it right away!
There are hundreds of codes, you need a scan to begin!
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Thursday, July 10th, 2008 AT 9:16 AM

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