After I changed both the plugs and coils (all updated and OEM part #'s) I started the car and it was idling rough and the CEL came on. I went back and checked all plugs and noticed the #1 cyl wasnt "snapped" all the way. I went back and made sure the plugs where all"clicked" into the coils. But the CEL is still on so......
I took it a step further and replaced 1 by one each coil to see if I had a bad new one, but that didnt help.
I dont have a Durametric to test thing out so i am open to suggestions.

'06CTT

 

am I correct in thinking the CEL will go away after 100 miles or so if it was in fact the 1 coil plug not snapped in all the way. Ive been searching here and the other cayenne forums and not finding much with the CEL reseting itself.

 

What code is it throwing specifically?

 

guy said he's got no durametrics..hows he gonna get the code???......

 

He could visit Autozone (or similar stores) they will read OBD-II codes for free.

Usual light turnoff is 6-drive cycles, and a drive cycle consists of staring/running/warming-up/cooling off of the engine. Some go off quicker - such as the gas cap warning one.

 

I will see how it goes this week. I'm taking it in to my Indy on Friday to replace the torque converter seal that is leaking. A month or so after the coolant pipe burst, and the leak has started.

 

Without knowing the code, I'm only guessing. But I think what happened was you started the car up, the car read a misfire, recorded a CEL or a "go to workshop" warning. Now that it's plugged in properly, the problem is gone, but the CEL is still in the DME memory.

 

CEL is most likely from coilpack not being on all the way. If it runs better it should be fine and the CEL from the leftover code. Any OBDII scanner can read/reset the code.

 

Will it clear itself after time, or do I need to reset it with a scanner? I have gone through about 10 driving cycles today (only about 35-40 miles) and the CEL is still there.

 

Some CELs can not be cleared without PIWIS or Durametric, even with a basic scanner.

 

I'd have to question that statement.

CEL (SES) lights are for OBD-II fault codes. There are the basic codes 0001-0999, then manufacturer specific codes (1,000-1,999) and all of these are supposed to be clearable with an OBD-II code reader. The actual fault will sometimes remain logged in the module that triggered it - but the light can be shut off. The light will turn back on if the fault is still present on the next startup. To clear the codes from the modules memory is where something like a PIWIS or Durametic may be needed... despite the light being turned off.

As far as the OP's question - did you read what defines a "drive cycle" (engine cold/warm/cold)? You did this 10 times today with enough time to have a cold engine start each time? (Since you're in LA, which right now is about as warm as NJ - I'd expect it to take 4-6 hours for the engine to cool off enough to trigger a cold-start.) FWIW - Ford calls for an 8-hour cool-off period between drive cycles..

More on Drive Cycles: http://www.nyvip.us/interior/readiness.htm

 

Above: agreed

Also there is no standard cycle. It's what they think will probably run through all parts of OBD to make all has been covered. There are many factors to go into when the cel will reset and codes will stck that don't cause a cel

You bought a nice car, get it scanned correctly.

 

All is well, the CEL went off after a few days. I took the pig into my Indy and he was surprised it went off. He said normally he would have to clear it with the Piwis. It's cures Ty getting the torque converter seal R&R'd and will be scanned to see if there is any problems.