Volkswagen Repair: 2002 VW Beetle 2.0 Engine, mass air meter, gas cap

Question
I have a 2002 VW Beetle with a 2.0 liter engine that I purchased used about a year ago.  I have 2 major problems with this car. First, my dim headlamps went out simultaneously.  The brights work as do all the other interior & exterior lights.  I have checked all fuses and none appear to be blown.  I replaced the ones pertaining to the headlamps. Is it the bulbs or perhaps an electrical problem?

Second, after filling up one day it just wouldn't start.  It turned over but never caught the spark to start. The check engine light came on.  I sat there for about 5 minutes and it finally started.  The check engine light stayed on.  I continued on with my day with no more starting problems but the light stayed on.  The next day I got in it & everything was normal.  I thought maybe I didn't have the gas cap tight enough or I got bad fuel.  It did the same thing several more times so when I ran low on fuel, I added a fuel system cleaning additive and filled it with premium.  It did it a few more times then seemed fine.  As soon as I refueled, it wouldn't start at the pump.  Again, I waited and it started.  It's been worse the last couple days.  Today, it simply would not start no matter how long I sat.  Sometimes the EPC light will come on for a bit as well.  I replaced the gas cap today also.  What is going on???

Answer
The EPC light is the Electronic pedal control. The mass air meter, brake switch, the throttle body, the gas pedal, wiring, and the computer all have a deal in the EPC light. If you had a EPC or the engine light on then there is a fault. The gas cap and the fuel system additive will not help your problem. The fault needs to be seen then get back to me and tell me the P0# or the definition. I want to help but the Code is most helpful to help you diagnose. Good luck.