How do I turn on my Lexus pre-Collision System?
The Lexus Pre-Collision System (PCS) is part of Lexus Safety System+ and is designed to help mitigate frontal collisions. In most models, PCS is active by default, and you can turn it on or off using a dedicated button or through the vehicle’s settings. Exact steps vary by model year and trim.
Quick path: use the dedicated PCS button
If your Lexus has a physical PCS switch, you can enable the system quickly with that control. Below are the general steps; if your model doesn’t have a dedicated PCS switch, skip to the Settings path described later.
- Turn the ignition to ON and make sure the driver’s display is active.
- Locate the PCS button. It is typically labeled "PCS" and placed on the center console, near the steering wheel, or on the dash.
- Press the PCS button once to turn the system On. The PCS indicator light on the instrument cluster should illuminate, signaling that PCS is active.
- If the indicator does not illuminate or you see a message indicating PCS Off, press the button again or check for any on-screen alerts. A fault or sensor obstruction can temporarily disable PCS.
- Drive normally; the system will monitor for potential collisions when conditions permit (speed, traffic, and sensor visibility affect activation).
- To turn PCS off, press the PCS button again; the indicator will turn off.
Follow these steps to turn on PCS using the physical switch.
Conclusion: If the PCS light does not come on or you encounter persistent warnings, consult the owner's manual or contact a Lexus dealer for diagnostic help. The exact button location and indicator behavior can vary by model/year.
Settings path: enable PCS through the infotainment system
On models without a physical PCS switch, or if you prefer to manage safety features from the display, you can enable PCS via the vehicle’s settings menu.
Use these steps to turn on PCS from the infotainment system. Note that the path can differ slightly by model/year, so use this as a general guide and refer to your manual if needed.
- With the ignition ON, access the center display or touchscreen.
- Tap Settings (or Configuration) on the home screen.
- Navigate to Vehicle Settings (or Driver Assistance/Safety settings).
- Find Pre-Collision System (or PCS) and toggle it to On.
- Confirm any prompts. The instrument cluster or display may show that PCS is active.
- Return to the home screen; the PCS indicator should be visible, confirming the system is enabled.
Follow these steps to enable PCS from the settings menu.
Note: In some models, enabling PCS from the menu may require the vehicle to be in Drive and moving at a minimum speed, or it may be temporarily unavailable if sensor visibility is poor. Always check for on-screen confirmations and warnings.
Model-specific notes
Because the control layout differs by year and trim, the exact steps can vary. Here are common patterns you may encounter:
- Newer Lexuses often place PCS behind a dedicated physical button labeled "PCS" (or with a car and collision icon) on the center console or dash.
- Some older models require enabling PCS through the Vehicle Settings menu rather than a physical switch.
- In several models, the Pre-Collision System is part of the broader Lexus Safety System+ suite and may be labeled as "Pre-Collision," "PCS," or "Pre-Collision System" in the settings.
If you cannot locate the control or PCS remains off after following these steps, consult your owner's manual or contact a Lexus service center for model-specific guidance.
Important considerations and limitations
PCS uses camera and radar sensors to help detect potential collisions, but it is not a substitute for attentive driving. The system may have limitations in certain conditions (poor weather, low light, sensor obstructions, or complex traffic). Always stay focused on the road and be prepared to apply braking or steering manually if needed.
Summary
To turn on the Lexus Pre-Collision System, use either a dedicated PCS button if your model provides one or enable it through the vehicle’s Settings/Driver Assistance menu. Ensure the ignition is on, and look for a PCS indicator confirming activation. If you encounter issues or cannot locate the controls, refer to the owner's manual or contact a Lexus dealer for model-specific instructions. Always maintain safe driving practices and understand the system’s limitations.
