Vehicle Stability Assist^TM (VSA^®), aka Electronic Stability Control (ESC), System

VSA^® helps stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the vehicle turns more or less than what was intended. It also assists in maintaining traction on slippery surfaces. It does so by regulating engine and motor output and selectively applying the brakes.

Detail

The VSA^® may not function properly if tire type and size are mixed. Make sure to use the same size and type of tire, and the air pressures as specified.

When the VSA^® system indicator comes on and stays on while driving, there may be a problem with the system. While this may not interfere with normal driving, have your vehicle checked by a dealer immediately.

VSA^® cannot enhance stability in all driving situations and does not control the entire braking system. You still need to drive and corner at speeds appropriate for the conditions and always leave a sufficient margin of safety.

The main function of the VSA^® system is generally known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The system also includes a traction control function.

The Vehicle Stability Assist^TM (VSA^®) system, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow, safety support, low tire pressure/TPMS*, and parking brake and brake system (amber) indicators may come on in amber along with a message in the driver information interface when you set the power mode to ON after reconnecting the 12-volt battery.
Drive a short distance at more than 12 mph (20 km/h).
Each indicator should go off. If any do not, have your vehicle checked by a dealer.

In certain unusual conditions when your vehicle gets stuck in shallow mud or fresh snow, it may be easier to free it with the VSA^® temporarily switched off.

When the VSA^® system is off, the traction control function becomes less effective. This allows for the wheels to spin more freely at low speed. You should only attempt to free your vehicle with the VSA^® off if you are not able to free it when the VSA^® is on.

Immediately after freeing your vehicle, be sure to switch VSA^® on again. We do not recommend driving your vehicle with the VSA^® system switched off.

You may hear a motor sound coming from the engine compartment while system checks are being performed immediately after turning the power system on or while driving. This is normal.

VSA^® Operation

VSA^® On and Off

You can turn the system on and off using the driver information interface.

Switching the Display

Vehicle Stability Assist Mode

Your vehicle will have normal braking and cornering ability, but traction control function will be less effective.

VSA^® is turned on every time you turn the power system on, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle.

* Not available on all models