Where is the fuse on a Honda Pilot VSA?
The VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) fuse in most Honda Pilot models is located in the engine‑bay fuse box and is labeled “VSA” (sometimes “VSA/ABS”). If it isn’t in the engine bay box, it may also be in the interior fuse box near the driver’s knee. Refer to the diagram on the fuse box cover or the owner’s manual for the exact location and the correct fuse rating, which is usually a small value such as 7.5A or 10A and can vary by year.
This article explains where to look for the VSA fuse on a Honda Pilot, how to identify the correct fuse, and what to do if it blows. It covers common locations by year range and provides step‑by‑step checks to help you safely inspect and replace the fuse if needed.
Common fuse box locations
The VSA fuse is typically found in one of two places depending on the model year: the engine bay fuse box or the interior fuse box. Use the diagrams on each fuse box cover to confirm the exact label and rating.
Engine bay fuse box
Open the hood and locate the fuse/relay box in the engine compartment, usually on the driver’s side near the fender or firewall. The lid includes a diagram with each fuse label. Look for a fuse labeled “VSA,” “VSA/ABS,” or a similar designation. The VSA fuse is typically a small rating such as 7.5A or 10A. If you don’t see a “VSA” label, the VSA function may be tied to a combined ABS/ECM fuse depending on the year and trim.
To locate and inspect the VSA fuse in the engine bay, follow these steps:
- Turn off the engine and remove the key; open the engine bay fuse box cover to view the diagram.
- Identify the fuse labeled “VSA” or “VSA/ABS.”
- Carefully remove the fuse with the included fuse puller or insulated pliers and inspect for a blown element (a broken or melted metal strand).
- If replacing, install a new fuse with the same amperage rating from the diagram and re‑seat it firmly.
If you replace the fuse and the VSA system still doesn’t function, or if the fuse keeps blowing, there may be a short or fault in the VSA/ABS wiring that requires professional diagnosis.
Interior fuse box
Inside the cabin, the interior fuse box is usually located under the driver’s side dash or behind the lower left kick panel near the footwell. The box cover has a diagram that should show the label “VSA,” “ABS/VSA,” or a similar designation. The interior box may house different fuses for the VSA system depending on year and trim.
To locate and inspect the VSA fuse in the interior fuse box, follow these steps:
- Park the vehicle, turn off the ignition, and open the interior fuse box cover; refer to the diagram for the VSA label.
- Remove the indicated fuse using the fuse puller or insulated pliers and check for a blown element.
- If replacing, use a fuse of the same rating and re‑insert securely.
- Close the box and start the engine to see if the VSA indicator behavior changes.
If the interior VSA fuse repeatedly blows, there may be a fault in the VSA/ABS circuitry or related wiring, and service may be required to prevent loss of stability control features.
What to do if the VSA warning light is on
If the VSA warning light illuminates on the dashboard, the system may be disabled or malfunctioning. You can still drive, but stability assist and related ABS functions may be impaired. Check the fuses first, but if the light remains on after fuse replacement, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician to diagnose possible sensor, wiring, or module issues.
Summary
For most Honda Pilots, the VSA fuse is located in the engine bay fuse box and is labeled “VSA” or “VSA/ABS.” If it isn’t there, check the interior fuse box near the driver’s knee. Fuse sizes are small (commonly 7.5A–10A) and vary by year, so always verify with the fuse diagram on the box cover or the owner’s manual. If a fuse keeps blowing or the VSA light stays on after replacement, seek professional diagnosis to avoid compromising vehicle stability.
What is the cause of a VTM 4 and VSA lights on in a Honda Pilot?
Pilot often shows ABS and VSA warning lights due to sensor faults or wheel speed sensor contamination. When ABS, VTM-4, and VSA lights illuminate together, check the wheel speed sensors and their wiring harnesses first. Hydroplaning can cause sensor misreads or debris buildup, triggering these warnings.
What is the VSA on a Honda Pilot?
VSA on a Honda Pilot stands for Vehicle Stability Assist, which is an electronic stability control system that helps with steering and traction. The VSA light indicates that the system is working to help you maintain control during a skid or slippery conditions; it will go off once the situation is resolved. If the light stays on, it means there is an issue, often caused by a faulty wheel speed sensor, low tire pressure, brake system problems, or an electrical issue.
What VSA does
- Regulates engine output: Reduces engine power to help the vehicle regain traction.
- Applies brakes: Selectively applies the brakes to individual wheels to help stabilize the vehicle, especially during corners.
- Enhances traction: Works with the traction control system to prevent wheel spin.
When the VSA light comes on
- Flashing light: The system is actively working to correct a loss of traction. You may notice subtle changes in engine power or braking as the system intervenes.
- Solid light: The system has detected a fault. This often means there is a problem that needs to be addressed.
This video explains what to do when the VSA light comes on and how to reset it: 1mTopicMotorYouTube · Feb 26, 2025
Common causes for the light to stay on
- Wheel speed sensor issues: Sensors can get dirty, damaged, or have loose connections, sending incorrect data to the VSA system.
- Low tire pressure or uneven tires: Uneven or low pressure can confuse the system.
- Brake system problems: Issues with brake fluid or pads can affect VSA performance.
- Electrical issues: Faulty wiring, a bad ABS module, or an issue with the VSA modulator itself can trigger the light.
- Recent repairs: After work on the brakes or sensors, the system may need to be reset.
This video explains how to reset the VSA light after a repair: 1mGerard BurkeYouTube · Mar 2, 2020
What to do if the light stays on
- Check tire pressure: Ensure all tires are properly inflated.
- Check sensors: Inspect wheel speed sensors for dirt or damage, especially after brake work.
- Scan for codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes. This can point you to the specific problem.
- Consult a mechanic: If the light remains on after checking for simple issues, it's best to have a mechanic or Honda dealer diagnose the problem. They can accurately identify and fix the issue.
How do I turn off the VSA light on my Honda Pilot?
To turn off the VSA light on a Honda Pilot, first try holding the "VSA OFF" button until you hear a beep, as this will manually disable the system and turn off the warning light if it's a partial-system failure. If the light remains on, it indicates a more serious problem, so the light can't be manually turned off. Instead, you should first address potential issues like low tire pressure, check wheel sensors for dirt, and then have the system scanned for error codes by a mechanic.
You can watch this video to learn how to manually turn off the VSA system: 1mDashboard warning lights YouTube · Dec 14, 2024
Manual reset
- Locate the "VSA OFF" button. It's usually on the driver's side of the dashboard or center console.
- Press and hold the button for a few seconds until you hear a beep. The "VSA OFF" indicator will light up, showing the system is now off.
- To turn the system back on, press the button again until the "VSA OFF" indicator light turns off.
What to do if the light stays on
This video explains what to do if the VSA light stays on after a manual reset: 58sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Sep 7, 2022
- Check tire pressure: Ensure all tires are inflated to the correct pressure, as low or uneven tire pressure can trigger the VSA light.
- Inspect wheel sensors: Check the wheel speed sensors and their connections for any dirt, damage, or loose wires, especially if the light comes on along with the ABS light.
- Get the codes scanned: The light indicates a system fault. Have a mechanic use a scan tool to read the specific error codes, which will help pinpoint the exact problem, such as a faulty sensor or a steering angle sensor issue.
- Fix the underlying problem: Once the issue is diagnosed, the underlying problem must be repaired. For example, a bad wheel speed sensor will need to be replaced.
- Clear the codes: After the repair, the error codes must be cleared using the scan tool to turn off the light.
You can also watch this video to learn how to reset the VSA and ABS lights with a scan tool: 1mGerard BurkeYouTube · Mar 2, 2020
Important: Do not drive for extended periods with the VSA system off, especially in poor road conditions, as this can be dangerous.
Is there a fuse for VSA?
The VSA fuse box is located under the interior fuse box on the passenger's side of the dashboard. To open it, push the tab and pull up the left side of the cover as shown. The under-hood fuse box is located in the back of the engine compart- ment on the passenger's side. To open it, push the tabs as shown.
