Ever since Toyota released its car models in 1995, the company implemented Vehicle Stability Control, which has been going through improvements over the course of years. In today’s article, we are going to talk about when to use the VSC OFF button in your Toyota vehicle.
This button is a fantastic feature that helps drivers maintain vehicle control under adverse conditions. It is designed to control skidding when swerving suddenly or turning on slippery road surfaces. This is a very handy function, which sometimes needs to be turned off because the circumstances dictate it. Today, we are going to analyze this button and provide a detailed explanation of when it needs to be off and what functions it provides. We have a lot to cover, so let us begin without further ado.
What Is the VSC System, and What Does It Do?
The VSC button refers to Vehicle Stability Control, and it is used on Toyota and Lexus vehicles. This system is designed to reduce or fully eliminate the power in your wheels, which is a helping hand for your car to maintain traction and control.
All of this is achieved through automatic brake pressure application to up to three wheels, and the system’s main objective is to keep your car traveling in the direction of its wheels. Even though Toyota implemented this system into their vehicles in 1995, ever since 2012, all new cars manufactured in the United States have been mandated by federal law to come standard with VSC / ESC.
This is the technology that has been around since the 1980s, and it varies from traction control, which does not enhance steering control, but instead, it adjusts wheelspin to provide better traction.
What Does This Light Signalize?
The VSC light turns on whenever there is a problem connected to the traction in your vehicle. You can also be prompted with the “check VSC system” message on your dashboard. Anytime this light is turned on, you should know that there is an issue with either VSC or ABS system.
If your Vehicle Stability Control system operates the way it is supposed to, the light will only flash briefly. On the other hand, if it continues to emit consistent light or if other warning lights on your dashboard turn on, it is a signal that you should get your car checked.
ABS and other control modules work in synergy with the VSC system, and when you notice the VSC OFF warning light on your dashboard, it means that your traction control is deactivated and that it will not do its job if you start losing control of your vehicle. If you own a more recent model of a Toyota vehicle, you will be prompted with a “Check VSC System Light” message on your dashboard.
When to Use the VSC OFF Button on Your Toyota Vehicle?
You should use the VSC OFF button in situations when your vehicle gets stuck in uneven terrain or mud. In this situation, you should turn off both the Traction Control (TRAC) and the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and once you do this, you will be able to get out of this sticky situation and free your car.
As we previously mentioned, the VSC OFF system assists you in maintaining control of your vehicle in adverse conditions, and disabling this function will allow you to maneuver the vehicle without restriction while it is incapacitated. Essentially, whenever you find yourself in this situation and need to get out of it as soon as possible, you should use the Toyota VSC Off.
You do this by simply pushing and releasing the VSC button, which is located near your gear shift, and your TRAC should also be turned off. Finding the TRAC OFF indicator light is pretty easy, as it is located near your speedometer, as well as your VSC OFF indicator.
When you want to reactivate TRAC, simply push the button again, and you are all set. In order to turn off both TRAC and VSC, make sure to hold the button for three seconds until TRAC OFF and VSC OFF indicators appear, and when reactivating these buttons, simply push the buttons again.
Is It Safe to Drive Your Vehicle When This Light Is On?
Considering the fact that this is a feature that is designed to help you maintain control of your car in difficult conditions, it is recommended to keep it on unless your car is stuck and you cannot move it. The VSC system also ensures that the vehicle moves in the direction of the steering wheel, and without it, you might be putting yourself in a dangerous situation.
This is a feature that is designed to improve the drivers’ safety and protection, so it should be on at all times. This technology also provides a better driving experience. In case you have accidentally turned off the stability control system, make sure to reactivate it as soon as possible.
The Indicator Does Not Function Properly. How Can I Fix It?
In case your VSC light does not function properly, it is essential to fix this issue as soon as possible. Luckily there are several easy methods you can do this, and we have listed them in the section below.
- Make sure to stop your car in a secure area. It would be ideal if you could put it in park.
- Find the VSC button. The location of this button varies from model to model, and it should be located either on the dashboard above your knees or near the gear stick.
- Press and hold this button for at least three seconds.
- Both TRAC OFF and VSC OFF indicator lights will turn on, meaning that both systems are off.
- Press the VSC button again, which will reengage the system, and both lights will go off.
Once you complete these steps, your VSC OFF light should stop illuminating. In case this problem persists, it is likely that you have an underlying problem with your vehicle that needs to be attended to as soon as possible. If this is the case, make sure to visit a certified mechanic shop and resolve the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I use the VSC OFF button in my Toyota vehicle?
This button should only be used in a situation when your vehicle gets stuck in mud or in uneven terrain and you cannot move. Disabling both VSC and TRAC will allow you to maneuver your car without any restrictions.
2. Should I drive with this light on?
It is strongly advised to avoid this, as the VSC function keeps your vehicle under control in adverse situations, especially in inclement weather.
3. Where is it located in my Toyota vehicle?
Although the location of this button varies from model to model, it should be located either on the dashboard, just above your knees, or near the gear stick.
4. What causes the VSC OFF light to come on?
This light can turn on when you either turn it on purposely or accidentally or due to a worn-out cap or one that was put improperly. In case neither of these situations occurs, but the light still turns on, it is strongly advised to visit a licensed mechanic, as there might be some deeper problem with your vehicle.
Final Words
VSC feature is a fantastic addition to Toyota vehicles as it promotes a safer driving experience for all drivers. As we mentioned, there are situations in which the VSC OFF light should be on, but these occasions are rare, so if you notice anything out of the ordinary with it, make sure to visit the mechanic to check your vehicle thoroughly.
We update our content on a daily basis, so if you want to stay in the loop about the newest information about Toyota and cars from other brands, revisit our site, and ensure that your driving experience is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.
We recently made a trim comparison of the Toyota Tundra Limited and Toyota Tundra SR5, so if you are the driver of either of these vehicles, make sure to check it out.
