Just got my 2001 A4 2.8l 85k mile back from the dealer where both rear wheel bearings had to be replaced.

I've had a check engine light on that they report both catalytic converter banks are bad and need to be replaced to the tune of $2800.

I do NOT live in an area where they do emissions checks so I'm not really concerned about replacing them nor can I afford it, nor am I super concerned about performance. What I would like to know is if there's a way to turn off the check engine light? I hate having it on all the time because if something really bad does go wrong I'll never know since the light is always on.

Also, I read something about the "federal emissions warranty" and it says 80k miles or 8 years, these parts are covered by some makers. If I can prove the light was on prior to 80k miles (which it was), would this warranty cover me? If I can get them replaced free I'll certainly do it.

Thanks for any info.

 

If you get VAG COM or go to AutoZone or somplace like that, you can scan and clear the codes, which will make the check engine light go away. Obviously, if its a serious problem, the CEL will come right back. To my knowledge there's no way to make the CEL go off and stay off, but come back if something else goes wrong. Worst case: you're gonna have to stand looking at the CEL and get it scanned every couple weeks to make sure there are no new problems. =/

 

if they are clogged you dont want to just clear the codes. you should remove them and gut them then try the non-fouler mod on the second banks. it'll make it sound meaner as well

 

If you would like to clear the code and dont have access to the tool, just disconnect the battery for about 30 seconds. It will clear the code. The CEL will come back on once it has run the tests a couple of times and has found a fault. Good Luck!

 

Ok, thanks everyone. I've had the light cleared but it comes on almost immediately after the car is started again. Bummer. I guess some day when I have nothing better to do with 2k I'll get the converters replaced.