Monaro VXR - "Check Engine" just popped up....

[MikeGF]

Just dropped the Monaro VXR back at Vauxhll to have the phonekit removed, and whilst I was parking up the "Check Engine" icon popped up in the centre console display, along with a warning noise (its the engine icon with a flash of lighteninbg though it).

Turned off and restarted and all was fine, although I have asked them to look in to it.

Unfortunately I had to leave to get to work and couldn't look in the owners manual, so, what causes this and is it serious??

Cheers
MikeGF

[caspy]

It can be caused by a number of issues, they can connect to a diagnostic computer and it will tell them the specific fault code. If you turned off after a run and then on again after minute or so it is not uncommon, sometimes the 02 sensors can go out of range momentarily and flash up the warning.

If just sat idling with little air moving around the heat soak can sometimes trigger a code, if you remove you bonnet vent plugs it allows for better heat loss when stationary.

>> Edited by caspy on Thursday 19th January 10:57

[The Jackel]

That happened to me about 3 months ago (just after I had new tyres fitted) came on and then went off when restarted.

Nothing since and the car has been serviced after the event.

[jimb0]

This also happened to me. It popped up once during the summer and hasn't come back since. I just put it down to the O2 sensors.

[MalcN]

Happens to mine quite regularly when restarted soon after been on a decent run, such as when just filled up with petrol.

Checked it with Vauxhall dealer and confirmed nothing to worry about. But if it ever comes up under normal driving conditions to switch off straight away.

[ringram]

As caspy says O2 errors are reasonably common, they get stored in a history so will be there for next time anyway so its still worth asking to get the error code history out next time you are in for a service.
If it comes on while driving and you lose engine power, its likely more major that an error where you dont lose any power.
A failed maf will lose you power and light the light, a sensor voltage warning which is only transient will also light the light, but not lose you power. Usually the engine will be ok if its still running, it has cut outs and safety checks built in.
Of course its up to the driver to determine, for me if its running, has oil pressure, water and good temperature, Id drive it where I needed to in order to check it. But you guys need to take the call as you pay the bills on your cars