Cleaning and maintenance

Indicator lamp

~1min read
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings
Lit up Possible cause Solution
Engine management system fault (Electronic Power Control). The engine should be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible.
Diesel engine is preheating before starting. .
Fault in catalytic converter. Decrease speed. Drive carefully to the next qualified workshop. The engine should be checked.
Diesel particulate filter has become saturated with soot. Drive for approximately 15 minutes in 4th gear (manual gearbox) or select D (automatic gearbox) at a speed of at least 70 km/h.
Please observe any applicable speed limits .
If the indicator lamp still does not go out, proceed to a qualified workshop.
Flashes Possible cause Solution
Fault in engine management system (diesel engine). The engine should be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible.
Misfiring, which damages the catalytic converter. Decrease speed. Drive carefully to the next qualified workshop. The engine should be checked.

Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is switched on. They will switch off after a few seconds.

Please observe legal requirements if cleaning the diesel particulate filter when in traffic.
  • Follow driving recommendation only if visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions are suitable.
  • Do not endanger other vehicles on the road.

NOTICE

To avoid damage to your vehicle, always observe the indicator lamps and associated warning texts.
If the indicator lamps , or are lit up, fuel consumption may be higher and engine performance reduced.

Test yourself

A quick Volkswagen Golf quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.