Is it safe to drive with the VSC light on?
The short answer is no, it is generally not safe to drive with the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) light on. The VSC light indicates a problem with your vehicle's stability control system, which is a critical safety feature that helps maintain control of your car during sudden maneuvers or slippery conditions. Driving with the VSC light on can compromise your vehicle's handling and increase the risk of an accident.
What is the VSC Light?
The VSC light, also known as the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Traction Control System (TCS) light, is a warning indicator on your vehicle's dashboard. It illuminates when there is a problem with the stability control system, which is designed to help prevent the vehicle from losing control during sudden turns, acceleration, or slippery conditions.
Why is it Unsafe to Drive with the VSC Light On?
When the VSC light is on, it indicates that the stability control system is not functioning properly. This means that the system may not be able to detect and correct for loss of traction or sudden changes in direction, which can lead to the vehicle becoming unstable and difficult to control. Driving in this condition can increase the risk of the following:
- Skidding or sliding during turns or sudden maneuvers
- Loss of control on slippery surfaces, such as wet or icy roads
- Increased stopping distance and reduced braking effectiveness
- Difficulty maintaining a straight line during acceleration or deceleration
In some cases, the VSC light may also indicate a more serious problem with the vehicle's electronic systems, such as a malfunctioning sensor or a problem with the engine or transmission. Driving with the VSC light on can exacerbate these issues and potentially lead to further damage to the vehicle.
What to Do if the VSC Light Comes On
If the VSC light illuminates on your dashboard, it's important to take the following steps:
- Slow down and drive cautiously, avoiding sudden maneuvers or high speeds.
- Check your owner's manual for any specific instructions on what to do if the VSC light comes on.
- Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the underlying issue.
- Avoid driving the vehicle until the problem has been resolved, as it can be unsafe to do so.
Ignoring the VSC light and continuing to drive can put you and others on the road at risk. It's important to take the necessary steps to address the problem and ensure the safety of your vehicle.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
