Just bought my daughter a used VW Golf GLS. Car has been driving great, but the check engine light just came on. The manual only tells you to take it in. Just checking to see if this is something common that happens? Or should be concerned about...

 

Welcome to the forum.

You need to get your motor scanned (preferably with VAG-COM\VCDS) for any error codes logged in the ecu and post them, that will save a lot of guessing.

Your in the US, I'm told that AutoZone will do a free scan in the hope you buy something of them.

 

Welcome, Keithuk is correct you should have it scanned to know the error code and be safe plus to avoid expensive repairs.