Does RSX have traction control?

Yes. The Acura RSX uses Honda/Acura's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), which includes traction control. Availability varies by trim and model year, but traction control is standard on most RSX Type-S models and was commonly included or offered on base models as well.

Here's what you need to know: how the system works, what to expect on different RSX trims, and how to verify the feature on a specific car you’re considering.

What is traction control and VSA?

Traction control helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration by reducing engine power or applying brakes to slipping wheels. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) is Acura's branding for a broader stability system that adds braking, steering and throttle control to help the car stay on its intended path, particularly in slippery conditions.

RSX traction control by trim and year

The following overview reflects general availability for US-market RSX models. Exact equipment can vary by production year, market and option packages. If you’re shopping, check the vehicle’s window sticker or build sheet for VSA/Traction Control.

• RSX Type-S: VSA with Traction Control is standard on the Type-S throughout its production; this model line typically includes the traction control system as part of its safety suite.


• RSX (base 2.0): Traction control via VSA was available as an option in early years and became more common in later years; some base cars may not have it unless equipped with the appropriate package.

Conclusion for List 1: In practice, Type-S models reliably include VSA/traction control; base models may require a specific option or later-year builds to include it. Always verify with the specific vehicle’s documentation.

How to verify VSA/traction control on a used RSX

The following steps help confirm whether a particular RSX has traction control installed and functional.

• Check for a VSA OFF switch on the dash or center console; presence generally indicates VSA/traction control capability.


• Turn the ignition on and observe the dashboard lights; the VSA/Traction Control indicator should illuminate briefly during startup and then go out if the system is active.


• While driving, you should feel VSA engage if you accelerate hard on a slippery surface (you may notice slight braking or throttle modulation); you can override by pressing and holding the VSA OFF switch to disengage, which usually lights a warning indicator.

Conclusion: If there is no VSA OFF switch and no VSA indicator activity, the specific RSX may not be equipped with VSA/traction control. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s build/window sticker.

Summary

In short, the RSX does include traction control through Honda/Acura’s VSA system, with Type-S models more consistently equipped. When shopping used, confirm the presence of the VSA indicator and OFF switch on the dash, and review the build sheet for the exact specifications of that car.

What year to avoid Acura RSX?

All model years of the Acura RSX (2002 to 2006) have been known to leak motor oil due to bad or failing oil pressure sensors. The oil pressure sensor is an important part of your engine because it maintains the engine's oil pressure level.

How do I know if my vehicle has traction control?

Most likely, yes, your car has traction control, as it has been a standard feature in all new vehicles sold in the U.S. since 2012. You can check for a button on your dashboard with an icon of a car and wavy lines underneath it, and look for the same icon or the "TCS" or "TRAC Off" indicator on your dashboard when you start your car.
 
How to check if your car has traction control
This video demonstrates what the traction control button looks like and how it works: 23sToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Apr 14, 2023

• Look for the button: Find a button on your dashboard or center console that shows a car with wavy or curved lines underneath it. 
• Check the dashboard: When you turn your car on, the traction control light (usually a car with wavy lines or "TCS") will briefly illuminate and then turn off. If the light stays on, it could indicate a malfunction. 
• Check the dashboard display: Sometimes, the dashboard will display "TRAC Off" if the system has been manually or automatically disabled. 
• Check your owner's manual: The owner's manual is the most definitive source and will show you where the button is and how to use it. 

What if it doesn't have traction control?

• Older vehicles: If your car is older, especially from before the 2000s, it may not have traction control as a standard feature. 
• Consider the risks: Without traction control, your drive wheels may spin on slippery surfaces, and your car will have a harder time maintaining grip and control. 
• Check for electronic stability control (ESC): A related and mandatory feature is ESC, which also uses sensors to help maintain control in turns and slippery conditions. 

If you have a modern car and can't find the button or light, it's worth checking the owner's manual. If there is a "TRAC Off" light or indicator that stays on, your traction control is off, and you may need to press the button to turn it back on.

What is the rarest RSX color?

ABP and BOM are probably the “rarest” option wise being Type-S only colors, but both Blaze and Jade Green were 2 years only.

Is the RSX a rare car?

All to say the RSX, which was never all that common to begin with—in its best year Acura sold just 30,117 of them—is only going to become more special as time goes on, and as contrasts are drawn with the new RSX EV. Check out the Hagerty Media homepage so you don't miss a single story, or better yet, bookmark it.