What is the “Check VSC” Message and VSC Light in a Lexus?

What is the “Check VSC” message?

The “Check VSC” message means the VSC system is turned off. If you see the “Check VSC” message on your Lexus’ dashboard display, it means the vehicle stability control (VSC) system is currently disabled. The VSC system is a safety feature that keeps your car from skidding, like when you drive in slippery conditions, brake hard, or make sharp turns. The “Check VSC” message might come on because the VSC system is malfunctioning or other parts of your car are malfunctioning.

Ways to Reset the “Check VSC” Message

Disconnect the battery for 10 minutes, then reconnect it. Turn your car all the way off and put on a pair of gloves. Then, open your car’s hood and find the negative terminal on the battery (which is usually labeled “-”). Loosen the nut with a socket wrench and pull the negative cable back from the battery. Simply wait 10 minutes and then tighten the negative cable back onto the negative terminal. Note: Disconnecting the battery can reset your car’s computer system and clear the “Check VSC” message. However, this is only a temporary solution, as it doesn’t fix any underlying issues. If your car was on, wait for the engine to cool down before disconnecting the battery. Warning: Always turn your car off before touching the battery. Keeping the car running can increase your risk of electrocution.

Clear any error codes with an OBD-II scanner. Plug the scanner into your car’s OBD port, which is usually located on the dashboard under the steering wheel. Then, turn your car’s electricity on, but do not start the engine. Simply follow the prompts on the OBD-II scanner to check for codes and clear any related to the “Check VSC” message. OBD-II scanners read your car’s computer system and display codes that refer to problems with your car. Clearing the codes turns off any warning messages or lights related to the problem. Note: Clearing the error codes will not fix any problems related to the “Check VSC” message. So, the message might turn back on after you drive your car for a while.

Take your car to a Lexus dealership or mechanic. If disconnecting the battery or using an OBD-II scanner didn’t reset the “Check VSC” message, or it keeps coming back on, schedule an appointment with your Lexus dealership or local mechanic. A professional technician can diagnose and fix any issues related to the message. If the “Check VSC” message keeps coming back on, it likely means there’s an issue with the VSC system or parts it’s connected to.

What is the VSC light?

The VSC light means the VSC system is currently active. When you’re driving around and “VSC” illuminates on your dashboard display, this means the VSC system is engaged. The VSC light typically turns on when you’re driving in slippery conditions, brake suddenly, or take a sharp turn. On some cars, the VSC light looks like a car icon with wavy lines underneath it. The VSC system adjusts the engine output and applies the brakes to certain tires, helping your car gain traction and stay in control when you skid. The VSC light turns back off and the system deactivates when you’re no longer experiencing poor driving conditions. If the VSC light remains on, it means the VSC system is turned off or malfunctioning.

How to Turn off the VSC Light and System

Park the car and press the VSC button. Find the VSC button on the steering wheel or near the gear selector. Simply press and hold the button for 3 seconds, or until the light disappears from your car’s dashboard display. This turns off the VSC system. The VSC button might have “VSC” printed on it or a car icon with wavy lines underneath it. If you can’t find the button, check your car’s owner’s manual. Follow the same process to turn the VSC light on (and thus turn on the VSC system). You might want to turn off the VSC light and system if: You need to manually reset the VSC system. The VSC system typically resets when you turn your car off. If the light remains on, pressing the VSC button off and back on resets the VSC system. Your car is stuck (e.g., in mud) and the VSC system is preventing you from getting unstuck. Turning off the VSC system can help your tires get a better grip.

Is it safe to drive with the “Check VSC” message?

Yes, but check and reset the light as soon as possible. Driving with the “Check VSC” message on does not harm your car, but it does mean the VSC system is disabled, leaving you unprotected if you skid. Drive your car home as soon as possible to reset the light, or bring your car directly to a mechanic.

What causes the “Check VSC” message to appear?

VSC system failure The “Check VSC” message most commonly turns on due to problems with the VSC system itself. This can mean the system isn’t functioning properly or its parts are damaged. What to do: Reset the “Check VSC” message. Or, take your car to a Lexus dealership or mechanic to repair the issue.

Engine problems The check engine light often illuminates at the same time the “Check VSC” message appears. If the light stays on, this typically means a minor issue is affecting your engine. However, if it flashes on and off, it can indicate a more serious problem. What to do: Pull over and contact a tow company to take your car to a Lexus dealership or mechanic if the check engine light continues to flash. If the light is static, slowly drive home and diagnose the issue with an OBD-II scanner. Or, bring your car to a Lexus dealership or mechanic.

Brake system problems The VSC system is connected to your car’s brake system, as the VSC system employs the brakes when you skid. If your brakes are worn or damaged, the “Check VSC” message might appear. What to do: Inspect your brake pads and check your brake fluid level. Replace the brake pads and fill up on brake fluid as needed, or take your car to a mechanic.

Faulty ABS (anti-lock braking system) sensors The VSC system monitors your car’s ABS sensors (also called wheel speed sensors) to determine when you might be experiencing poor driving conditions. If the sensors are malfunctioning or damaged, the “Check VSC” message might turn on. What to do: Clean the ABS sensors with compressed air and a microfiber towel. If that doesn’t fix the issue, schedule an appointment with your Lexus dealership or mechanic.

Malfunctioning steering angle sensor The VSC system also relies on the steering angle sensor to figure out the direction and angle that you’re steering, which helps stabilize your car when you skid. So, the “Check VSC” message often turns on when this sensor is faulty or damaged. What to do: Reset and recalibrate the steering angle sensor yourself, or bring your car into your Lexus dealership or mechanic shop.

Damaged wiring The VSC system is connected to your car’s electrical wiring system, which it uses to monitor and receive messages from the different sensors. If any of the wires are damaged, the “Check VSC” message might appear. What to do: Open the hood of your car and check for any loose or damaged wires. Either fix the wiring yourself, or take your car to your Lexus dealership or mechanic.