Vehicle Stability Assist™ (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 output and selectively applying the brakes.
- The main function of the VSA® system is generally known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The system also includes a traction control function.
- 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.
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 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.
VSA® Operation
When VSA® activates, the VSA® system indicator (
) will also blink.
- The engine and motor do not respond to the accelerator.
- You may also notice some noise from the hydraulic brake system.
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® On and Off
VSA® OFF Indicator
You can partially disable VSA® features using the driver information interface.
- VSA® ON/OFF does not function while the drive mode is in SAND mode or TRAIL mode.
Your vehicle will have normal braking and cornering ability, but traction control function will be less effective.
- Traction control function change not required during SAND mode and TRAIL mode.
VSA® is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle.
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.