What how do you stop overheating? What does the EPC light mean?

Question

I have a 2003 VW Bug and the EPC light keeps coming on when I turn on the headlights. I have gotten it checked a few times, and they can't seem to find the problem?

Plus several times now the overheat light has come on, and they have put more coolant into it, but it came on again last week. Are there any tricks to stop this?

Answer 1

EPC is an acronym for Electronic Power Control. This light is similar to a Check Engine Light. It can mean a problem in many different areas from a brake light switch to the throttle body. The car will have to be scanned for DTCs to point you in the right direction. This usually means going to a dealer for it to be diagnosed. The overheat light can be caused by a bad temp sensor, low coolant level, a bad thermostat, a bad water pump, bad ie inoperative cooling fans or any other of a number of causes. The condition would have to be diagnosed by a compitent technician.

Answer 2

I hate to sound negative, but your biggest problem is you bought a VW. They have lots of problems with the car, including the EPC light coming on in a random fashion. See http://www.consumeraffairs.com/automotive/vw_jetta.html for examples of problems with them.

If they just added coolant without bothering to check why it was low, and have no idea why you are having a problem with check engine lights, perhaps it's time to find a better mechanic.

If you keep having the same problem, and they seem to not be able to fix it, look at your state for the "lemon law".

Added: Here you go. Lemon Law for all states.

Answer 3

If you are acutually overheating, then I would get the thermostat checked cuz coolant isn't flowing through the engine. Re-check the radiator to make sure that the coolant isn't leaking from somewhere. As far as the EPC light, not too sure bout that one.

Answer 4

don't know about epc, but I recently had to have my radiator replaced, maybe it has a hole and is leaking.