Jetta TDI check engine light question

[SithSolo1]

2009 Jetta TDI with about 140K miles on it. Full service done about 6 months ago.

So my dad is on his way back home, about 2hrs away, and he just noticed the check engine light come on. Nothing else is lit up and he says it sounds and feels normal. How safe is it for him to drive it the rest of the way home?

 

[LTC8K6]

I think the light flashes for serious problems.

Not sure if it applies to diesels, but is the fuel cap tight?

You can get the code read at most chain auto parts stores unless you are in Cali.

 

[SithSolo1]

Ok, thank you!

 

[Jeff7]

I've had the check engine light turn on for "your gas cap is a bit loose," all the way to "the back half of your exhaust is one O2 sensor wire away from falling off of your car."

 

[SyndromeOCZ]

My check engine light is always on, has been for years. It still drives though.

 

[phucheneh]

I wish they would change it to a 'stop driving and check for DTCs' light.

There's really nothing helpful for anyone to offer, OP.

LTC is right in saying that flashing is what's really worrisome. Usually reserved for serious, consistent misfiring under load. But 'not flashing' doesn't automatically mean it's something unimportant.

 

[Jimzz]

Have him get the code pulled at Advnace/AZ and post here. As said could be awful and cause damage if driven or be something simple.

 

[iamwiz82]

You will need to pull the code to find out. Most likely thing is emissions for a steady CEL though.

 

[SithSolo1]

He drove it home and took it to his mechanic the next day. Code was for a faulty glow plug.

 

[foghorn67]

He drove it home and took it to his mechanic the next day. Code was for a faulty glow plug.

Curios, how much did it set him back. I know nothing about diesels. And yes, I'm embarrassed.

 

[SithSolo1]

Curios, how much did it set him back. I know nothing about diesels. And yes, I'm embarrassed.

He's having them changed out next week. I'll update you if I can find out.

 

[foghorn67]

He's having them changed out next week. I'll update you if I can find out.

cool, thanks.