Is it safe to drive with the VSC light on?
The Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) light is an important indicator on your car's dashboard. It alerts you to potential issues with your car's stability control system, which is designed to help maintain traction and prevent skidding during challenging driving conditions. But what does it mean when this light comes on, and is it safe to continue driving? Let’s dive into the details.
What Does the VSC Light Indicate?
The VSC system is a safety feature found in many modern vehicles. It works by monitoring your car's steering, braking, and traction to ensure stability, especially during sharp turns or slippery conditions. When the VSC light illuminates, it typically means one of the following:
- The VSC system has been manually turned off (often via a button on the dashboard).
- There is a fault in the VSC system, such as a malfunctioning sensor or a software issue.
- It could be linked to other warning lights, such as the Check Engine Light, indicating a broader issue.
Is It Safe to Drive with the VSC Light On?
In most cases, it is safe to drive with the VSC light on, but there are important considerations to keep in mind:
- Reduced Stability: If the VSC system is not functioning, your car may be more prone to skidding or losing traction, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice.
- Linked Issues: If the VSC light is accompanied by other warning lights, such as the ABS or Check Engine Light, it could indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate attention.
- Driving Conditions: If you are driving in normal, dry conditions, the lack of VSC functionality may not pose an immediate risk. However, caution is advised in poor weather or on uneven terrain.
What Should You Do If the VSC Light Comes On?
Here are the steps you should take if your VSC light illuminates:
- Check for Other Warning Lights: Look for additional warning lights on your dashboard, such as the ABS or Check Engine Light, which could indicate related issues.
- Inspect the VSC Button: If your car has a VSC button, ensure it hasn’t been accidentally turned off. Press the button to see if the light turns off.
- Drive Cautiously: If the light remains on, drive carefully, especially in wet or slippery conditions, as your car’s stability control system may not be active.
- Schedule a Diagnostic Check: Visit a trusted auto repair shop, like Kevin’s Autos, to have the system inspected. A professional mechanic can diagnose the issue and recommend the necessary repairs.
Conclusion
While it is generally safe to drive with the VSC light on under normal conditions, it’s important to address the issue promptly to ensure your vehicle’s safety features are fully operational. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing stability control systems, so you can drive with confidence. If your VSC light is on, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert assistance!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my car pass inspection with VSC light on?
A lot of people ask if their car can pass inspection while the check engine light is still on. The short answer is no, but check out the video to learn about a potential quick solution to this problem.
How do I know if my traction control sensor is bad?
The TCS warning light will illuminate if an issue is detected with any one of the various components, and it's critical for your safety to follow up with having it diagnosed right away. Of course, the most obvious symptom of failed traction control is that it is not performing its function well or at all.
How long can you drive with check engine light on VSC trac off light on?
If the engine is running normally, not overheating and the transmission is shifting then should be ok to drive 10 miles, the trac/vsc lights will turn on when the computer has detected a malfunction, this is normal and they will turn off when the check engine light problem is fixed.
How to fix a VSC light?
VSC Light Easy Fix
- Make sure you are completely stopped. Put the car in park if you can.
- Press and hold the VSC button for a few seconds.
- The TRAC OFF and VSC OFF indicator light will come on. Both systems are now off.
- Press the VSC button again. Both lights will turn off and the systems are now reengaged.
What would cause the VSC light to come on?
A briefly flashing light means the Vehicle Stability Control system is actively working to stabilize your vehicle. It should stop flashing once your car regains traction. If the light stays on, it either means the VSC system has been turned off, or that there's a problem with the system itself.
Is VSC expensive to fix?
Repairing a VSC system can cost from $50 to $2000. This wide range is because there are numerous potential causes for a malfunctioning VSC system. If a faulty ABS sensor is the cause, the repair could cost around $250. If the throttle body is broken, you may need to spend more than $1000 to fix it.
Why is my VSC light and check engine light on and my car shaking?
A blinking Check Engine light means there's something seriously wrong with the emissions system. The shaking suggests you're having a misfire, which is dumping unburnt fuel into the exhaust, while making the engine shake. This is usually caused by a bad spark plug, ignition coil, or wiring.
What triggers VSC?
Common triggers include issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), sensor malfunctions, or a loose gas cap. It's also possible that recent work on the car's suspension or wheel alignment could impact the VSC system.
Can you still drive with the VSC light on?
It's perfectly safe to drive the vehicle, with the exception that while the VSC/Trac lights are on you will NOT have traction control. There is a ``self preservation'' mechanism that when the Check Engine light is on, the Trac is shut off, just in case the reason the Check Engine is on can affect/harm the trac system.
Is check VSC serious?
good news, there is nothing wrong with your ABS or VSC. These lights come on with codes that literally say (PCM malfunction detected) so basically if your check engine light is on, ABS and VSC turn off in safety mode and illuminate there lights.
