The VW site enables users to put in their VIN for Volkswagen passenger cars and LCVs and also includes a list of news and FAQs on the situation.

The Audi site works in the same way.

Skoda and SEAT have also launched sites but are still waiting for the VIN details before drivers can carry out the self-serve checks on their specific vehicles. Volkswagen says these will arrive within the week.

In total nearly 1.2m vehicles in the UK will be affected by the emissions scandal, with Volkswagen having a total of 508,276 cars affected, with 393,450 for Audi, 131,569 for Skoda, 76,773 for SEAT and 79,838 Volkswagen commercial vehicles.

Volkswagen added that the software in question does not affect handling, consumption or emissions and that affected vehicles are still safe to drive and roadworthy.