VSC is short for ‘Vehicle Stability Control,’ which is the stability control system that Toyota uses in their vehicles. When this light is on in your Toyota Camry
, it generally means that the system is working. However, if the light remains on after you’ve disabled the system, it could be a sign of a computer issue or VSC malfunction. Here to walk you through exactly what your VSC system is, how to work it, and what to do if you expect it’s malfunctioning is car insurance
expert and broker app Jerry
. After explaining this dashboard light and how to turn it on and off, we’ll give you tips for lowering your Toyota insurance costs
. What does the VSC light mean on a Toyota Camry?
VSC stands for “Vehicle Stability Control,” which refers to the stability control system that Toyota standardly builds into all of its vehicles, including the Camry. Stability control helps your vehicle maintain traction and control by reducing—or completely cutting—the power sent to your wheels. It does this by automatically applying brake pressure on up to three wheels.
This safety feature has been mandated by U.S. law since 2014, so if your Camry is from the last eight years, it includes VSC.
The VSC light looks like a car with swirling skid marks behind it. If you see the VSC light flick on and off while you’re driving, don’t panic! It likely means that your VSC system is functioning properly.
You’ll likely notice your VSC kick in while driving in severe weather, or on slippery surfaces like ice and mud. VSC kicks in whenever your Camry begins to lose traction and the system has to work to maintain it.
If your VSC light stays on, or if you see a separate light that says “VSC OFF” or “TRAC OFF”, there may be a separate issue. Generally, these lights indicate that your VSC system is off. If you didn’t disable it yourself, this could be a sign of a mechanical issue or electrical problem.
The newest Camrys are often equipped with a “Check VSC system” light—which are important directions to follow!
Exactly what’s malfunctioning could be hard to determine all by yourself, as VSC is so closely connected to the ABS as well as the engine. Thus, a system malfunction could be caused by anything from a loose gas cap
to a serious engine failure! Here are some common problems that can cause your VSC light to stay on. Brake issues: Because the VSC system works collaboratively with your Camry’s anti-lock brakes, malfunctions in the brake system could set off the VSC light.
Wiring or fuse problems: Since the VSC system is an electrical one, a blown fuse or faulty wiring harness could cause it to fail.
VSC light turned off by accident: This might sound overwhelmingly simple, but there’s a good chance you just clicked the button off by accident!
VSC light and check engine light on
Sometimes your dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree, with the check engine light
coming on along with the VSC light. Don’t freak out—just check out your Camry ASAP. Hopefully, the issue is quite minor. Here are a few typical possibilities:
Loose gas cap: $12 to $50 to replace
Bad oxygen sensor: $200 to $475 to replace
Faulty crankshaft position sensor: $125 to $220 to replace
Faulty camshaft position sensor: $250 to $350 to replace
Bad catalytic converter: $1,800 to $2,000 to replace
If you can’t easily identify the source of the issue by yourself, take your Camry to the dealership or your favorite automotive repair shop for a diagnostic test. They’ll be able to pull specialized error codes to identify the exact issue that’s causing your dashboard indicator lights to light up.
VSC light and ABS light on
The VSC light may also come on with the ABS warning lights
. This typically indicates an issue with the braking system, which must be treated seriously. Costs will grow if you put off essential repairs, and less-than-perfect brakes are extremely dangerous. Here are some of the possible problems:
Low brake fluid: up to $1,000 to fix, depending on the problem
Wheel speed sensor damage: $350 to $415 to replace
Faulty brake pedal switch: $80 to $120 to replace
Blown ABS fuse: $80 to $100 to replace
MORE:Toyota ABS control module replacement cost
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How to reset the VSC light on a Camry
As we mentioned above, sometimes the VSC light is on simply because you accidentally disabled the system! Fortunately, resetting the system is fast and easy. Here’s what to do:
Shift your Camry to Park.
Find the VSC button. It’ll either be near the gear shift or the steering wheel.
Press and hold the button down for a few seconds. You should see the VSC OFF and TRAC OFF lights.
Release the button, then press it again once. If both indicator lights turn off, you’ve successfully reset the system and your traction control is back on!
Is it safe to drive a Camry with the VSC light on?
Generally, yes! While the VSC system is incredibly helpful safety technology, it’s not essential to your car’s operation, so it’s safe to drive your Camry even when the warning light is on.
Of course, if you’re driving in inclement weather or across slippery terrain, proceed with extreme caution while your VSC system is disengaged.
Of course, if there are other signs of vehicle malfunction—in addition to the VSC light—then you should avoid operating your Camry. Here are the signs to look out for:
If the check engine light is on: As explained above, a check engine light could be minor, or it could be serious. It’s better to be safe than sorry—so if you do drive your Camry, take it straight to a mechanic.
If the ABS light is on: It’s generally safe to drive with the ABS light on, but you’ll want to proceed carefully until your brakes are looked at.
If you notice odd noises, smells, or driving behavior: Regardless of your dashboard indicator lights, noises, smells, and changed driving behavior are all signs you should take seriously and address immediately.
Another reason to never delay getting your car checked out? Every new Toyota Camry comes with a factory warranty, and the part causing your VSC to malfunction may be covered!
How to save on Toyota Camry insurance
Driving with the VSC light on may not be dangerous—but driving without insurance certainly is. Fortunately, Jerry can help you lower your Toyota insurance costs!
That’s right! In just a few clicks and about 45 seconds, the Jerry
app will tell you whether you’re overpaying for your Camry’s insurance policy, and help you find a better one with lower costs or improved coverage. No matter where you live, how old your Camry is, or what your driving needs are, Jerry can help you find great low rates.
“When using Jerry
, I just put in a bit of information, and they found lots of different quotes for me. I was paying $305 a month for 2 brand-new cars, but now I’m paying $150 a month for both with full coverage!” —Robin U. 
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