Driving home last night my 01 jetta, with AZG engine, just stopped running. I noticed that the EPC light came on, I had plenty of battery power. As far as I could tell it sounded like the starter was just spinning and not really turning the engine over. Very hard to hear with all of the freeway noise. If anyone has an idea, please send it! Thanks!

 

Welcome to the forum.

Well thats not normal that the starter sounds as though its spinning but it doesn't turn the engine over. For a pre-engaged starter to spin it as to be engaged in the flywheel ring gear. Remove the starer motor and investigate.

As for why the EPC light came on you need to find someone with VAG-COM to do an Autoscan.

 

I had the 2001 jetta looked at and the timing belt went out. Mechanic stated there may be other damage such as piston/valve. I'm hoping there will be no other damage?!