VW Golf - Car battery draining constantly

[raghuhv]

Hi
Just bought a used VW Golf 1.6 SE 16V (5-dr hatch), 2001 model 2 days back.
Had problem starting it after a day and was told it was because it was lying in the garage for 3 weeks. Mechanic jumpstarted it and advised to take for a long drive - took it out for a long drive for 2 hours, next day again unable to start and the battery is flat.
I feel that the battery is draining out. Also intermittently the "EPC" sign comes on!
Apologies if this question is a very simple one - I am car naive and this is my first car. Hence my knowledge of cars is very limited.
Please explain in simpler terms on what might be the cause(s) for it and what I can do to rectify it.
many thanks in advance for replying
regards

[r.s.logan]

First thing to do would be to get battery tested as any weak / faulty cells would mean battery would not hold charge .Also get alternator charging output checked . Most fast fit centres should do this for you f.o.c and will only take 5mins.

[Allder]

Suggest you start car then disconnect battery to see if engine still runs with
terminals off, if it does then at least you will know the problem is NOT the
alternator
Sheila

[user]

my mate had this, was a problem with a earth wire somewhere

[raelorance]

Go to auto zone and have them check the alternator That would normally cause the battery to go dead. They'll check it for free and if the relay is handy they will check it too. These are most likely 2 separate problems even if the windows stay on the voltage draw would be minimal unless someone sits in the car and keeps rolling the window up and down. A constant draw on the battery will show up when they check your battery .
A volt-meter is also very useful. Charging voltage which is around 13.5V - 14.5V and doesn't fluctuate also more often than not indicates a good battery. Charging voltage which is low or one that varies considerably is usually an indication of a faulty battery.
Good luck!