EPC means Electronic Power Control. It is an automated system to manage the ignition and engine in your vehicle.
Normally ECU (Electronic Control Unit) plays the role of the brain in any modern car, responsible for the operation of the engine and drivetrain along with other systems involved in running the vehicle ideally.
But, can low oil cause EPC light?
Yes, it can. In fact, the EPC light will start glowing automatically whenever the oil level of the car is low. It gives the car owners indication so that they can avoid unnecessary hassles in the future due to lack of fuel. In short, it’s a safety feature.
The EPC teams up with the ECU to keep a tab on all functions. If it suspects anything has gone wrong, the EPC will display a warning light on the dashboard.
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Can Low Oil Cause EPC Light?
The EPC warning light on your car’s dashboard may glow if oil level of your car is low. It is a safety alert to inform you about a possible problem.
When the oil level goes to the lower side, the oil status detector fitted in the oil container will detect the low level. The sensor will immediately communicate with the computer about the low oil level, resulting in the computer turning on the EPC warning light.
Typically, along with the EPC light on due to low oil level, the system flashes the light indicating changing of the oil too, expecting you to diagnose the problem in detail.
It’s crucial to have an appropriate oil level to facilitate ideal running and lubrication for the car’s engine and other parts. A reduced level of oil may result in poor lubrication leading to friction between the parts, ultimately damaging them over a while.
The EPC light flashing is a great indicator to avoid future damage by informing you about low oil levels. Therefore, it’s not wise to ignore the flashing EPC light. Ensure that the oil levels are to the mark and replenish if needed. Apart from these, the EPC light may come on for a few different reasons.
What can cause the EPC light to come on?
The EPC light doesn’t glow only due to low oil in a car, in fact there are multiple causes for it to come on. Here I am listing all the possible reasons.
Failure of the throttle body
This part regulates the airflow going into the engine. If it is not working up to the mark, it may cause many other problems and activates the EPC light. In addition, a faulty MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor may also cause the EPC light to flash.
Defective ABS ring
The ABS ring is fitted underneath the vehicle and collects dust. Therefore it is more vulnerable to getting damaged. A damaged ABS ring results in flashing the EPC light.
Malfunctioned motor
A malfunctioned motor may be another reason to trigger the EPC warning light on. Controlling the electronic throttle frame is the function of the motor.
A damaged motor may also give rise to other issues like driving problems or unusual odors and stinks emanating from the vehicle. It may also result in clogging the cooling system or an oil blot. In addition, you will notice reduced mileage and a significant decline in the engine’s power.
Traction control problem
This problem is rare but may cause the EPC light to flash on the dashboard. You will notice the car sliding or fishtailing while accelerating with faulty traction control. In addition, you will hear a rattling sound when driving over bumps.
Problem with cruise control
Since the vehicle uses TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) for both, the EPC system and cruise control, any problem with the TPC may activate the EPC light to flash.
Faulty ABS sensor
The ABS detector scans the wheels’ speed and may report wrong readings if damaged. A problem with the ABS detector may trigger the EPC light to come on.
Failure of Power steering
A failed power steering can also flash the EPC warning light. The driving wheel may emanate unusual noise or vibrations and you may feel hard to turn the wheel.
Failure of fuel detector or engine oil levels down
A failed fuel sensor gives rise to several problems like car jerking or stalling. It also results in poor mileage. This situation may activate the EPC light. Similarly, the low oil levels will also cause the EPC light to come on.
Faulty brake sensor
If the brake sensor fails to communicate with the computer after pressing the brakes, it may cause the EPC light to come on.
A broken brake sensor signifies two issues:
- In case of a broken switch, you won’t be able to start the vehicle.
- You may notice brake lights turned on despite the brakes not being pressed. Alternatively, the lights won’t turn on at all.
A faulty broken pedal switch may also result in the stalling of the cruise control system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What causes EPC light on VW?
A problem with the throttle system, traction control, cruise control, accelerator pedal, or other systems may cause the EPC light to come on.
What causes EPC light on Audi?
Whenever there’s a power loss in your Audi vehicle, the EPC light comes on.
What can cause EPC in Audi a4?
It may be a problem with the wiring system or the throttle pedal position sensor being unable to register to the ECM.
Can low battery cause EPC light?
A drop in the baseline voltage due to a dead battery, a dying alternator, or a loose battery wire can cause the EPC light to come on.
Conclusion
EPC means the Electronic Power Control manages the engine and ignition systems of a vehicle. Whenever it suspects a fault, it will illuminate the warning light on the dashboard.
There are many reasons for the EPC light to flash. It’s crucial to check for your oil levels too and top up if the oil levels are significantly low.
