nate538

Alright, this is my first post, but I've been reading, and I think somebody here can help me out.

Here's my story: I've got an '02 A41.8T with the MTM Stage 1 chip (I love it). I bought the car from a private party (already chipped). I live in California. In order to get the car registered, I need a smog certificate. (actually, the seller should have provided it, but I believe he didn't know, and he's been cool about it) In addition to the emissions tests, etc, the technician is required to verify that the check engine light (MIL) is functioning properly. All cars in the US make this easy by having the MIL come on briefly when you start the car. However, European guys don't bother. And the MTM guys, being European, didn't bother either, according to Hoppen.

Here's my problem: The car failed the smog check because the MIL didn't come on with the ignition (after all, maybe I disconnected it as part of my evil plan to increase pollution by depriving myself knowledge of a critical engine malfunction).

Here's my idea: I show the guy that the light works by disconnecting something quick and easy, thus triggering the MIL.

Here's my question: What's quick and easy that will trigger the MIL on an '02 A4 1.8T (Quattro, Sport, MTM-1, Denim Blue)?

Sidenote- Hoppen acknowledged the problem, agreed to update the program free of charge, and were generally very cool about it etc. But that's a bit inconvenient, and I need to register the car ASAP (already late, penalties increasing...)

Let me know what you think. Thanks.

Ranson

Try removing the gas cap and starting the engine. Not sure if that'll do it. It might.

nate538

Thanks, but no joy. Although I did find the "gas cap" warning...

KrazyKraut

and now you have logged an error code

KrazyKraut

get the new software (ask them to expedite helping you), resmog and stop trying to make the car have problems that are traceable at a later time, i.e. the error codes being logged.

you are already late, you have time now.

nate538

It's more of a "door ajar" type warning. But i see your point.

KrazyKraut

"Door ajar" does not does not create error (fault) codes in the system. The gas cap being off and starting the car does. You can clear the fault code with a VagCom (obviously). Dealers do look for them (fault check) when you your car needs repairs to see how you are treating the car. Even running out of gas will log a fault code.

nate538

but the gas cap warning appears on the same screen with the doors and the trunk, etc...