How to restart the traction in Lexus IS 350?
You restart traction control by re-enabling the TCS system using the TCS OFF button, and if needed, by performing a quick ignition restart. This article guides you through safe steps to restore traction control and what to check if warnings persist.
What traction control does in the Lexus IS 350
The Lexus IS 350 uses a combination of Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help prevent wheel spin and maintain grip under acceleration, braking, and cornering. When conditions or a fault trigger the system, you may see warning lights on the dash or find the system temporarily disabled. Restarting traction control typically involves re-enabling TCS and, if necessary, power-cycling the ignition.
How to re-enable traction control: step-by-step
Use these steps to re-engage traction control if it has been turned off or if the system has auto-disabled after wheel slip.
- Bring the vehicle to a safe, stationary position or slow to a gentle stop on a suitable surface.
- Locate the TCS OFF button on the center console (often labeled “TRACTION OFF” with a car icon and wavy lines).
- If the dashboard shows a TRAC OFF indicator, press the TCS OFF button once to re-enable traction control. The indicator light should turn off or change state when TCS is active again.
- If the TRAC OFF indicator remains lit or you cannot re-enable TCS, perform a quick ignition restart: turn the ignition to OFF, wait about 10–15 seconds, then start the engine again. This can reset the TCS/VSC modules and reinitialize the system.
- Drive gently to verify normal operation. If warning lights return or the system does not re-engage, do not drive aggressively; seek professional diagnostics from a Lexus service center.
When to try the ignition restart: If you recently experienced wheel slip or a temporary sensor fault, a short power-cycle can help clear the fault code and reinitialize the system. If the warning persists after re-enabling TCS or after a restart, a diagnostic check is recommended.
Alternative reset method and related notes
In some driving scenarios, a brief reset can help the system reinitialize without a full ignition cycle. After re-enabling TCS, you can perform a light test by accelerating gently on a dry, smooth surface to confirm the system responds normally. If you notice intermittent behavior or repeated warnings, proceed to the checks below or consult a technician.
Check these issues before seeking service
If traction control remains off or warning lights persist after re-enabling, perform these quick checks to identify common causes.
- Inspect tire pressure and tread: underinflated or uneven tires can trigger traction-control adjustments.
- Verify tire sizes and installation: ensure all four tires are the same size and type, with similar wear patterns.
- Inspect wheel speed sensors and related wiring: damage or debris near sensors can cause false readings.
- Check for obvious brake or ABS warning lights: unrelated faults can interact with stability control systems.
- Review recent maintenance or tire changes: mismatched tires or recent replacements can affect system behavior.
- Check fuses related to TCS/VSC or general vehicle electronics: a blown fuse can disable the system.
After performing these checks, if the TRAC/VSC lights persist or the IS 350 continues to operate abnormally, schedule a diagnostic with a Lexus dealer or a qualified shop. Persistent issues can indicate a sensor, module, or wiring fault that requires professional repair.
Safety considerations and when to seek professional help
Traction control and stability systems are essential for maintaining grip in low-traction conditions. If you experience frequent or unexplained activation or deactivation, or if the warning lights stay on despite attempts to reset, avoid high-speed driving and seek authorized service. A technician can pull fault codes, inspect sensors, and determine whether a software update or component replacement is necessary.
Summary
Restarting traction control in the Lexus IS 350 is usually a matter of re-enabling the TCS via the TCS OFF button and, if needed, performing a brief ignition restart. If warning lights persist after these steps, conduct tire/installation checks and then seek professional diagnostics. Safe operation depends on the proper functioning of TCS and VSC, so address ongoing issues promptly with a Lexus service center.
