What does it mean when the EPC light on the car is on?

[ConnorDella]

The EPC indicator light can illuminate in two states: during the power-on self-test and under other circumstances. The power-on self-test is an indication that the vehicle is monitoring the status of all sensors before driving. Generally, if the vehicle is not started after power-on, the light will turn off by itself after about 3 seconds. In other cases, if the EPC light remains on after the vehicle is started, the main causes may include faults in the engine intake system, throttle valve, fuel system, engine, ECU control unit, brake lights, or anti-theft system. Below is a detailed introduction to the causes and solutions for the EPC light illuminating under other circumstances: Engine intake system fault: The EPC light will illuminate if the engine intake is obstructed or insufficient. Solution: Open the intake manifold switch valve cover, place a listening rod against the intake manifold switch valve, start the engine, and repeatedly press the accelerator pedal to clear the obstruction. Throttle valve fault: Carbon buildup is a common issue with the throttle valve. Additionally, dirt on the main body can affect intake, causing the indicator light to illuminate. Solution: Remove the throttle position sensor and install a new one on the throttle valve. Fuel system fault: Issues such as substandard fuel, fuel deterioration, or poor fuel atomization can trigger the light. Solution: Use the appropriate fuel grade for the vehicle model. Engine fault: Insufficient engine pressure or problems with the power system, such as the intake valve, can also cause the EPC light to illuminate. Solution: Clean carbon deposits from the relevant components. ECU control unit fault: For example, if the vehicle computer signal is interfered with or the computer gives a false alarm. Solution: Rewrite the ECU-related data. Brake light fault: If the brake lights do not illuminate, the brake switch fails, or the brake circuit malfunctions. Solution: Visit a repair shop or 4S store to replace the brake lights. Anti-theft system fault: If the car's electronic anti-theft system malfunctions or the anti-theft controller does not match the engine electronic controller, the EPC light will also illuminate. Solution: Seek professional help at a specialized repair point for a systematic inspection, as this cannot be fixed individually. If the EPC light illuminates, the owner can first try turning off the engine and restarting it to see if the light remains on. If it does not, there may be no issue, and the light may have been affected temporarily. If the EPC light stays on or frequently illuminates, drive to the nearest vehicle inspection point for professional assistance to diagnose and eliminate potential safety hazards. The full English name of EPC is Electronic-Power-Control, which translates to electronic power control. Most people refer to it as the engine electronic stability system. The EPC system mainly includes controllers and sensors related to the power system. When sensor data in the system is abnormal, the EPC system will take predefined measures for the power system. Common EPC indicator lights are generally displayed in two colors: yellow and red. If the EPC fault light is yellow and the car can still drive normally, proceed slowly to a repair point for inspection. If the EPC fault light is red, the situation is more severe, and the vehicle should be pulled over immediately to contact relevant repair personnel. Continuing to drive could directly affect the car's core components or driving safety.