Modern car models have onboard diagnostic systems. The sensors and systems connect to the electronic control unit (ECU). That said, when the car computers detect any issue with the components of the various systems, the warning light on the dashboard comes up.
These warning signals vary in different car models. Electronic Power Control (EPC) is a warning light on Audi and Volkswagen models. The EPC light on VW and Audi models indicates a problem with the electronic power control system.
Let’s understand the causes behind the EPC light turning on and how to fix the issue.
Causes of EPC Light on Volkswagen and Audi
Electronic power control (EPC) depends on the throttle body, throttle position sensor and accelerator pedal. The EPC light on VW and Audi models indicates throttle system problems. Besides, the EPC light warns about traction control and electronic acceleration control.
Car computers monitor the electronic power control system alongside the brake, transmission and steering control. That said, drivers can see ABS, traction control, electronic stability control and transmission system warning lights when the EPC light comes on.
In most cases, it is recommended to not drive your used Audi in the UAE or VW car with a triggered EPC light. You will have to face serious acceleration and braking problems when the EPC warning light on the dashboard is triggered.
Let’s learn the causes of EPC lights and how one can fix these issues when this warning light triggers on your Audi or VW model.
Throttle Body Failure
The throttle body controls the air entering the engine and affects the engine’s performance. When the throttle body fails, it may affect engine power or result in rough idling, stalling, or a check engine warning light.
Since Engine Power Control sensors use a throttle body to control the engine power, it will illuminate the EPC light on the Audi and VW models when the throttle body fails. Speaking of throttle body or throttle position sensor failure, you will have to check the fault code using an OBD scanner and get the repair from an Audi or VW technician.
Bad Brake Pedal Switch
A bad brake pedal switch can cause various problems with a vehicle’s braking system. The brake light switch is located near the brake pedal and is activated when the pedal is pressed.
It signals the brake lights to turn on and also sends a signal to the engine control unit to reduce power, allowing the vehicle to come to a stop. If the brake pedal switch is faulty, it will not send signals to the EPC to reduce the engine power- resulting in an illuminated EPC light.
It may be one of the factors why the car won’t start or the cruise control won’t work properly. You can visit a professional mechanic and follow the brake maintenance tips to avoid any critical issues.
Faulty ABS sensor
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) sensor is responsible for monitoring the speed of the wheels and sending signals to the ABS control module. After that, it modulates the brake pressure to prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking.
A faulty ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) sensor can cause problems with a vehicle’s braking performance. Since the electronic power control system uses the information from the EPS sensor, it turns on the EPC light on the Audi and VW models when the ABS light illuminates.
An ABS sensor is located on the wheel hubs and subjected to dirt and debris. When the ABS control module fails, it results in reduced braking performance, increased stopping distance, and potentially dangerous driving conditions, especially on wet or slippery roads.
Failed Brake Pressure Sensor
The brake pressure sensor is responsible for monitoring the brake system pressure and sending signals to the brake control module. When the EPC light illuminates on the Audi or VW models, it may be due to a failed brake pressure sensor.
The brake pressure sensor is located inside the ABS control module in many VW and Audi models- making it hard to replace. Therefore, you will need to replace the complete ABS control module.
Bad Steering Angle Sensor
A steering angle sensor, located behind the steering wheel, measures the position of the steering wheel. The EPC system uses the information to supply the correct brake force according to the steering angle.
When the steering angle sensor fails, it may illuminate the EPC light on Audi and VW models. Besides, one may confuse a bad clock spring with a faulty steering angle sensor. That is because the clock spring is a component where steering wheel buttons and a steering wheel angle sensor connect.
Failed Engine Sensor
Various types of car sensors are used for different purposes and to enhance the vehicle’s performance. Any failed engine sensor, such as a bad MAF sensor, failed oxygen sensor or faulty engine coolant temperature sensor may result in the EPC light turning on the VW and Audi models.
Wiring Issues
Modern cars include many electrical components connected via sophisticated wiring. That said, common electrical problems in cars include wiring issues that can result in sensor or component failure. It may turn the EPC light on Audi and VW models when the sensors aren’t functioning.
Wiring issues include corroded wires and broken or burnt connections. You can visit a professional technician for a car repair.
This wraps up the common causes of EPC on the VW and Audi models. Some common car issues have minor repairs. However, delaying those repairs when you have a used car in the UAE can lead to major problems. Therefore, one should not overlook minor car repairs as they can become major issues.
Stay connected with the UAE’s leading cars blog to find more information about car problems and their fixes.
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