How to Reset the VSC Light on Lexus ES 350

DISABLING THE VSC & TRAC SYSTEMS

The VSC system works alongside TRAC (Traction Control). The latter helps prevent the drive wheels from spinning when starting the ES 350 or accelerating on slick surfaces.

If you happen to get stuck in the dirt, mud, or snow, you’ll want to turn these two systems off, as they may reduce power from the engine to the wheels.

In order to disable these systems, you’ll want to press and hold the TRAC/VSC switch for more than three seconds while the car is stopped. The VSC OFF indicator light should then come on, and a “Traction Control Turned Off” message should be shown on the multi-information display.

Once you’ve gotten back on stable ground, you’ll want to press the TRAC/VSC switch again to turn the systems back on.

REACTIVATING THE VSC & TRAC SYSTEMS

After turning VSC and TRAC off, they should be re-enabled automatically when the engine switch is turned off.

If just the TRAC system was turned off, it should turn on again when the speed of your ES 350 increases. On the other hand, if both VSC and TRAC were turned off, this automatic re-enabling won’t occur with vehicle speed increase.

Either way, if these systems don’t turn on when they should, you’ll want to get your car looked at as soon as possible.

WHEN TO HAVE THE VSC/TRAC SYSTEMS CHECKED OUT

Because these systems work so closely together, you’ll want to make sure both are operating normally. Otherwise, you may not have the traction you need to safely travel on slippery road surfaces.

For instance, you may see the “Traction Control Turned Off” message on the multi-information display even if the switch hasn’t been pressed. If this happens, the TRAC system can’t be operated. Therefore, you’ll want to have your Lexus ES 350 looked at right away.

Also, you may hear noises caused by the VSC or TRAC systems. For example, a sound may come from the engine compartment when:

• The engine has started.
• The ES 350 begins to move.
• The brake pedal is depressed repeatedly.

These sounds don’t indicate that a malfunction has occurred in these systems. However, if the noises persist or worsen, you’ll want to get your vehicle checked out as soon as you can before a bigger issue arises.