Cjshutts

Today on the way to work the check engine light came on in my A8. I stopped and restarted the car and the light stayed on and I also got the big OK in the middle of the dash board.

Is there a problem driving the car another 50 miles before taking it to the dealer? Do I have any alternatives other than the dealer? I realize the check engine light could be a lot of stuff but I thought I would ask.

Also I noticed when I restarted the car, the oil light did not turn on with the ignition in the on position and the engine unstarted. Does the oil pressure warning come on throught the OK status area in the middle of the dash?

Thanks,

chucklane

A common check engine light problem for the 99, as it happened on mine is a fuel gasget near the gascap. Check this as it cause the check engine light to come on even though its not exactly related to the engine.

Cjshutts

Thanks, How do you know this gasket is the problem?

cwatters

I also have been getting an intermitent CEL which seems to come on when the fuel is less than half full. I've had the codes pulled and it's one for a small leak in the emmissions system. The gasket and the fuel sender cap in the ohter posts is subject to a current recall on certain A8s. Having said all that until the codes are pulled you just can't tell what it is or if continuing to drive is doing bad things. Did you leave the engine running the last time you got gas? Apparently that will make the CEL light come on too.

Cjshutts

I didn't leave the engine running last time I filled up, but the car has about a quarter of a tank of gas.

BongoCruiser

Anyone know the code this generates? I think I have the same problem.

cwatters

Try filling the tank, but not all the way. Mine stays on even after I fill it and then goes off when it comes just below full on the gas gauge.

escapA8

Are we talking about the BCW light? - Boy crying "Wolf!" light? ;-)

chucklane

it happened to mine it is a quick fix if that is the case. Paul knows much more than I on this subject. He will no doubt look at this post and comment.

Cjshutts

Thanks for the note. I spoke to the service department at the dealer and they said if the check engine light is not blinking I can drive the car. They also said to check the gas cap, which was a quarter turn loose, I tightened it, but the light stayed on. I did not have time to drive the car, so it may take a few minutes to reset...I don't know.

I have an appointment next week in Highland park, but I hate to take it to a dealer if it is something stupid.