I own an Audi A4 2001 and my check engine light comes on almost everyday then will go off. The first time it came on was almost a year ago and I had it checked by auto zone. They said it was my cadlic converter.I never got it checked out, so now it‘s coming on almost everyday then going off after the car is parked for awhile. I just found out that I may have a problem with my CV joint as well, so I was wondering if it was my CV joint the whole time making my light come on? Is it possible??
No. Those two issues are unrelated. When the MIL light (check engine) pops on, its only informing you that the computer is getting a reading that is out of spec on any of the electrical sensors that make the car operate in top shape. 9 times out of 10, it is a fault with the emissions system, especially on the Audi A4. Have the CV shaft/half shaft on both sides replaced. Take it to the Audi dealer and have them inspect it. Those idiots at Auto Zone don't know much about cars, trust me, even if they pull a code. Usually they are a generic code anyway. You need the manufacturer specific code to cross reference as a starting point. Your dealer is your best bet. I wouldn't trust any garage mechanic to do the work. Go to the dealer only or a reputable IMPORT auto shop to do the work.
Not related but why would you keep driving for over a year, with the check engine light on. I you hoping that sooner or later, you'll have to walk. Just realize, the light comes on for problem A, it's not fixed and then problem B comes along and you don't realize you have a new, different problem that might lead to something very serious, but you don't know this because you never fix the original problem Sorry but this attitude doesn't make sense to me.
No. Your two problems are unrelated. Your Check Engine light is on because the car's computer has determined that one of its systems is causing the car to produce more emissions than it was designed to. There are hundreds of things that could cause the Check Engine light ranging from a loose gas cap to a faulty valve or solenoid. Your catalytic converter may well be the problem. It is constantly monitored, and if it isn't performing to specification, it will set the light off. Once the car feels it is working well again, the light will go off. Rest assured, it won't heal itself. It will just set the light more often and for longer periods of time. You will need to fix it if you live in a state with emissions testing. Your CV joint connects the drive axel to the wheel hub. It is made up of a number of two flanges and a number of balls. The entire assembly is in a rubber boot and filled with grease. When they fail, they often make a clicking noise when you turn. Left long enough, it will actually seperate, and leave you broken down. Most often the joint fails because the boot has torn and allowed the grease to leave and dirt/water to get into the joint.
