Learn Why Your Lexus’s VSC Light Is On From Lowell’s Experts

by Mechanics Direct November 9, 2024

Do you know that a functional VSC system reduces the chances of single-vehicle accidents in SUVs and cars by half and multiple-vehicle crashes by about 20%? Vehicle Stability Control or VSC is one of the special safety systems of a Lexus so as a driver it is necessary to find out reasons why the VSC light blinks.

If this orange icon comes on your dashboard when you start the car and goes back off then it means everything is working fine in your vehicle. However, if it stays on, then your Lexus is trying to convey a message to you. Let’s have a closer look at the main factors that make the VSC light switch on and what actions to take when you see this light.

Reasons For VSC Light Illumination

• ABS or Brake System Issues: The VSC system is connected to your car’s brake system therefore, any problem with the ABS, the VSC light can be turned on. If your ABS system is not functioning properly it may impact the VSC system and both lights may illuminate.
• Wheel misalignment: Another cause of VSC light illumination in your Lexus is wheel misalignment. If your wheels are misaligned, then the VSC system may sense that the car is unstable or cannot maintain the required path and then it will light up. Out-of-alignment wheels affect the overall performance and safety of a vehicle because the suspension system has to work extra hard to balance the car when cornering or driving on rough terrains.
• Faulty Steering Angle Sensor: The angle sensor identifies the position of your steering wheel in relation to the car’s axis. If this sensor is faulty then the VSC system can get confused and the light comes on.

What To Do When the VSC Light Turns On

• Restart Your Vehicle: In some cases, you can just shut down your Lexus and then start it again, with the hope that this will help clear any error in the system and the VSC light will disappear. This step does not in any way solve the problem and isn’t a long-term solution but it’s a good way to check and be sure that it’s not a minor error affecting the system.
• Check for Other Warning Lights: If the check light or the ABS light is on, then you should be able to tell why the VSC light is on as well. To solve the VSC problem you may have to address these other issues first before you can make any headway.
• Inspect for Visible Issues: If you can, try to look under the chassis of your Lexus and the wheels for anything that seems odd. Search for signs of wear and tear in the wires, and check for loose contacts or anything that looks odd around the wheel sensors.
• Use an OBD-II Scanner: If you are lucky enough to have an OBD-II scanner, then you can connect it to your Lexus to obtain an error code. This code will assist you in knowing the exact problem that caused the VSC light to come on. If you do not own a scanner, many auto parts stores do and they will run the check on the car’s computer for you.
• Consult a Professional Mechanic: If none of the above steps are effective, it’s time to seek assistance from a professional auto mechanic. He or she will have all it takes to diagnose the problem and correct it within the shortest time possible.

Is It Okay to Drive Your Lexus With the VSC Light ON?

If you only see the VSC light, it means you can drive very carefully and temporarily, until you reach a mechanic who can check the system. But as a note of caution, the stability control system may be inoperative in your vehicle, which can affect your handling abilities on icy or bumpy roads; this puts your safety in jeopardy. If the VSC light is on and the Check Engine light is also on, it is advisable to have your car attended to by an expert to avoid other complications or risky situations.

Bring Your Lexus To Our Shop In Lowell For Accurate VSC Diagnosis And Repairs

When it comes to car electronics, especially complicated ones like the VSC system, you may actually cause more harm than good if you are not a professional in car repair and want to attempt a DIY approach. At Mechanics Direct, we have highly trained professionals who can identify the problem, fix it, and have your Lexus running again as it should. We are located in Lowell, MA and our expert mechanics are happy to help drivers from nearby cities such as North Chelmsford, Westford, Dracut, and Tyngsborough, MA. Book an appointment with our expert now for the best result possible.