Epica rough cold starts

I had a similar issue with my Epica, though it took me ages to figure it out. Those symptoms – the rough cold starts, the error code, and the fuel consumption – it sounds a lot like a dodgy PTC heater. It's like trying to run a marathon with a pebble in your shoe; annoying and inefficient. Did you check the heating element itself, or any of the temperature control circuits around it? That's where my problem was hiding.

Thanks for the quick reply! When you say 'temperature control circuits,' do you mean the wiring harness and relays, or something else? I've checked the heater element, and it seems fine at first glance, but I haven't dug too deep into the electrical side of things.

Yep, I'm talking about the wiring and relays. Think of it like a water pipe – even if the heater (the tap) is fine, a blockage in the pipe (the wiring) will stop the flow. Honestly, unless you're really comfortable with electrical diagnostics, you might be better off taking it to a workshop. I ended up doing that. The garage confirmed it was the electric auxiliary heater defective, and the repair cost me around 350€ Saved me a ton of frustration in the end!

Okay, that's really helpful. I appreciate you sharing your experience! I'll take your advice and get it checked out at a local garage. Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction!