P1602high severityPowertrain
Power Supply Voltage Too Low
on 2001 Audi A8 4.2L V8 · AWD
What this code means
The ECU detected that its supply voltage has dropped below the minimum operating threshold. Low voltage can cause erratic ECU behavior, false fault codes, and poor engine performance.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Multiple fault codes stored
- Engine running rough
- Starting difficulties
- Electrical accessories dimming
Common causes
- Weak or failing battery
- Faulty alternator or voltage regulator
- Corroded battery terminals
- High-resistance connection in power supply
- Parasitic drain depleting battery
Diagnostic steps
- Test battery voltage and load test
- Test alternator output voltage and current
- Inspect battery terminals and connections
- Check main power supply wiring to ECU
- Test for parasitic electrical drain
Repair notes
Replace the battery or alternator; clean and tighten all power supply connections.
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