What Causes VSA Light To Come On Honda | How To Fix It?

If you own a Honda vehicle, you may have noticed a warning light on your dashboard that says VSA or VSA OFF.

This light is related to the Vehicle Stability Assist system, which is designed to help you maintain control of your car in slippery or unstable conditions. But what does it mean when this light comes on, and what should you do about it?

In this article, we will explain the meaning, causes and solutions of the VSA light on Honda vehicles. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about this topic.

What Is VSA On A Honda?

VSA stands for Vehicle Stability Assist, and it is a system that helps you keep your Honda stable and balanced on the road. It works by monitoring the speed, steering angle and yaw rate of your car, and applying brake force or reducing engine power to individual wheels as needed.

This way, it can prevent oversteer or understeer, which are situations where the car loses traction and spins out of control.

VSA is especially useful when driving on slippery surfaces, such as wet, icy or snowy roads. It can also help you avoid skidding or sliding when taking sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.

VSA is part of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking. Together, these systems enhance the safety and performance of your Honda.

What Does The VSA Light Mean On A Honda?

The VSA light on your Honda dashboard is a warning indicator that tells you if there is a problem with the VSA system or if it is turned off. There are two types of VSA lights: one that says VSA and one that says VSA OFF. Here is what they mean:

VSA Light

This light comes on when the VSA system detects a malfunction or a fault code. It means that the VSA system is not working properly and cannot assist you in maintaining stability. It may also come on if there is a problem with other systems that are connected to the VSA system, such as the ABS, the power steering or the engine. When this light comes on, you should have your car checked by a professional as soon as possible.

VSA OFF Light

This light comes on when you manually turn off the VSA system by pressing the VSA button on the dashboard. It means that the VSA system is disabled and will not intervene in case of loss of traction or stability. You may want to turn off the VSA system in some situations, such as when driving off-road, when using a spare tire or when towing a trailer. However, you should be aware that turning off the VSA system increases the risk of skidding or sliding, especially on slippery roads.

What Causes The VSA Light To Come On Honda?

The VSA light on your Honda may come on for various reasons, depending on whether it is the VSA light or the VSA OFF light. Here are some of the possible causes for each type of light:

Causes Of The VSA Light Honda

The most common cause of this light is a faulty sensor or component in the VSA system, such as the steering angle sensor, the ABS wheel speed sensor, the ABS modulator unit or the yaw rate sensor.

Faulty Sensor Or Component

The most common cause of this light is a faulty sensor or component in the VSA system, such as the steering angle sensor, the ABS wheel speed sensor, the ABS modulator unit or the yaw rate sensor. These sensors and components are responsible for sending signals to the VSA control unit, which then adjusts the brake force or engine power accordingly. If any of these sensors or components fail or malfunction, they may send incorrect or no signals to the VSA control unit, resulting in a fault code and triggering the VSA light.

Low Tire Pressure Or Uneven Tire Wear

Another possible cause of this light is low tire pressure or uneven tire wear. If your tires are underinflated or worn out unevenly, they may affect the rotation speed and traction of each wheel, which may confuse the VSA system and cause it to activate unnecessarily or not at all.

Problem With Other Systems

A third possible cause of this light is a problem with other systems that are linked to the VSA system, such as the power steering, the engine or the transmission. If any of these systems have a malfunction or a fault code, they may interfere with the operation of the VSA system and cause it to shut down or malfunction.

How To Fix The VSA Light On A Honda

To fix the VSA light on your Honda, you need to identify the cause of the problem and perform the appropriate repairs or adjustments. Depending on the cause, you may be able to fix the VSA light yourself or you may need to take your car to a mechanic. Here are some steps to follow to help you fix the VSA light on your Honda:

Check The VSA Button

The first thing you should do is check if you have accidentally turned off the VSA system by pressing the VSA button on the dashboard. If so, simply press the button again to turn the system back on and see if the light goes off. If not, proceed to the next step.

Check The Tire Pressure And Condition

The next thing you should do is check the tire pressure and condition of all four tires. Low or uneven tire pressure can affect the rotation speed and traction of each wheel, which can confuse the VSA system and cause it to activate or malfunction. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure of each tire and compare it with the recommended value on the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. If any tire is underinflated, inflate it to the correct level using an air pump. If any tire is overinflated, release some air until it reaches the correct level.

You should also inspect the tires for any signs of damage or wear, such as punctures, cracks, bulges or uneven tread. If any tire is damaged or worn out unevenly, you should replace it with a new one that matches the size and specifications of the other tires. Driving with mismatched tires can also affect the VSA system and cause it to malfunction.

Scan The Fault Codes

If checking the VSA button and the tires does not fix the VSA light, you need to scan the fault codes stored in the VSA control unit using a diagnostic scanner. A fault code is a code that indicates what kind of problem is detected by the VSA system. You can use a generic OBD2 scanner or a Honda-specific scanner to read the fault codes from the VSA control unit. To do this, you need to locate the OBD2 port under the dashboard and plug in the scanner. Then, turn on the ignition and follow the instructions on the scanner’s screen to retrieve the fault codes.

Once you have the fault codes, you can look up their meanings online or in a repair manual. The fault codes will tell you what component or sensor is causing the problem and where it is located. For example, a fault code like C1234 may indicate a problem with the left front wheel speed sensor. You can use this information to diagnose and repair or replace the faulty component or sensor.

Reset Or Replace The Steering Angle Sensor

One of the common components that can cause the VSA light to come on is the steering angle sensor. This sensor measures the angle of the steering wheel and sends it to the VSA control unit, which uses it to determine how much brake force or engine power to apply to each wheel. If the steering angle sensor is faulty or misaligned, it may send incorrect or no signals to the VSA control unit, resulting in a fault code and triggering the VSA light.

If the code scanner reveals something is wrong with this sensor, you may need to reset or replace it. To reset the steering angle sensor without a scanner, you need to:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, turn off the engine, and engage the parking brake.
2. Turn the steering wheel fully to the left and hold it for a few seconds.
3. Turn the steering wheel fully to the right and hold it for a few seconds.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 one or two more times.
5. Bring the steering wheel back to the center.
6. Turn off the ignition and wait 10 seconds.
7. Start the engine and check if the error is gone. You may need to drive a short distance in a straight line or restart the engine a few times.

To replace the steering angle sensor, you need to:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes for the airbag system to deactivate.
2. Remove the airbag module from the steering wheel by loosening the screws behind it and disconnecting the electrical connector.
3. Remove the steering wheel by loosening the nut in the center and pulling it out carefully.
4. Locate the steering angle sensor behind the steering wheel and disconnect its electrical connector.
5. Remove the screws that secure the sensor to the steering column and pull it out gently.
6. Install the new sensor in reverse order of removal and make sure it is aligned properly.
7. Reconnect the battery terminal and clear any fault codes with a scanner.

Replace The Wheel Speed Sensor Or The ABS Reluctor Ring

Another common component that can cause the VSA light to come on is the wheel speed sensor or the ABS reluctor ring. The wheel speed sensor measures the rotation speed of each wheel and sends it to the VSA control unit, which uses it to determine how much brake force or engine power to apply to each wheel.

The ABS reluctor ring is a metal ring with teeth that is attached to the wheel hub or the axle, and it provides a signal for the wheel speed sensor to read. If the wheel speed sensor or the ABS reluctor ring is faulty or damaged, it may send incorrect or no signals to the VSA control unit, resulting in a fault code and triggering the VSA light.

If the code scanner reveals something is wrong with the wheel speed sensor or the ABS reluctor ring, you may need to replace them. To replace the wheel speed sensor, you need to:

1. Locate the wheel speed sensor on the wheel hub or the knuckle and disconnect its electrical connector.
2. Remove the bolt that secures the sensor to the hub or the knuckle and pull out the sensor gently.
3. Install the new sensor in reverse order of removal and make sure it is seated properly.
4. Reconnect the electrical connector and secure it to the vehicle body.

To replace the ABS reluctor ring, you need to:

1. Remove the wheel and tire assembly from the vehicle.
2. Remove the brake caliper and rotor from the hub or the axle.
3. Remove the axle nut and pull out the axle from the hub or the differential.
4. Remove the ABS reluctor ring from the external joint of the axle using a special tool or a hammer and a chisel.
5. Clean up the axle area and install your new ring being careful not to damage it (no magnets or screwdrivers near surface).
6. Reinstall the axle and tighten the axle nut to the specified torque.
7. Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper and tighten their bolts to the specified torque.
8. Reinstall the wheel and tire assembly and tighten their lug nuts to the specified torque.

Fix Other Problems That Cause The VSA Light

Sometimes, the VSA light may come on not because of a problem with the VSA system itself, but because of a problem with other systems that are connected to it. For example, if there is a problem with the power steering, the engine or the transmission, the VSA system may not receive the correct signals or inputs from these systems and may shut down or malfunction. In this case, you need to fix the underlying problem that is causing the VSA light to come on.

To fix other problems that cause the VSA light, you need to:

1. Scan the fault codes with a diagnostic scanner to identify the source of the problem. The scanner may show codes related to other systems, such as P for powertrain, C for chassis or U for network.
2. Look up the meanings of the codes online or in a repair manual and follow the troubleshooting steps to diagnose and repair or replace the faulty component or sensor.
3. Clear the fault codes with the scanner and check if the VSA light goes off.

Some of the common problems that can cause the VSA light to come on are:

• Low battery voltage or bad alternator
• Faulty throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal position sensor
• Faulty power steering pressure switch or electric power steering motor
• Faulty transmission range switch or shift solenoid
• Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor or thermostat
• Faulty crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor
• Faulty ignition coil or spark plug
• Faulty fuel injector or fuel pump
• Faulty oxygen sensor or catalytic converter

Can You Drive With The VSA Light On?

The answer to this question depends on whether the VSA light is on because of a problem with the VSA system or because of a problem with other systems.

If the VSA light is on because you have turned off the VSA system by pressing the VSA button, you can still drive with the light on, but you should be aware that you will not have the stability and traction assistance from the VSA system.

This means that you will have to be more careful and cautious when driving on slippery or uneven roads, or when making sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. You should also turn the VSA system back on as soon as possible to restore the safety and performance of your Honda.

If the VSA light is on because of a problem with the VSA system or other systems, you should not drive with the light on, as this may indicate a serious malfunction that can affect the safety and performance of your Honda.

Driving with the VSA light on may cause further damage to your car or result in an accident. You should pull over to a safe place and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Then, you should scan the fault codes with a diagnostic scanner and fix the problem or take your car to a mechanic for repair.

How To Prevent The VSA Light From Coming On

The best way to prevent the VSA light from coming on is to maintain your Honda regularly and properly. Here are some tips to keep your VSA system and other systems in good condition and avoid triggering the VSA light:

• Check and adjust the tire pressure regularly according to the recommended value on the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Underinflated or overinflated tires can affect the rotation speed and traction of each wheel, which can confuse the VSA system and cause it to activate or malfunction.
• Rotate and balance your tires every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or as recommended by your Honda dealer. Uneven tire wear can also affect the rotation speed and traction of each wheel, which can confuse the VSA system and cause it to activate or malfunction.
• Replace your tires when they are worn out or damaged. Driving with mismatched tires can also affect the rotation speed and traction of each wheel, which can confuse the VSA system and cause it to malfunction.
• Check and replace your brake pads, rotors and fluid regularly according to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Worn out or faulty brakes can affect the braking performance and stability of your Honda, which can interfere with the operation of the VSA system.
• Check and replace your battery, alternator and spark plugs regularly according to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Low battery voltage or bad alternator can affect the electrical power supply to the VSA system and other systems, which can cause them to shut down or malfunction.
• Check and replace your sensors, switches and modules regularly according to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Faulty sensors, switches and modules can send incorrect or no signals to the VSA system and other systems, which can cause them to shut down or malfunction.

By following these tips, you can keep your VSA system and other systems in good condition and prevent the VSA light from coming on.

Conclusion

The VSA light on your Honda is a warning indicator that tells you if there is a problem with the Vehicle Stability Assist system or if it is turned off. The VSA system helps you maintain control and stability of your Honda in slippery or unstable conditions by applying brake force or reducing engine power to individual wheels as needed. The VSA light may come on for various reasons, such as:

• You have turned off the VSA system by pressing the VSA button on the dashboard.
• You have low or uneven tire pressure or tire wear.
• You have a faulty sensor or component in the VSA system, such as the steering angle sensor, the wheel speed sensor or the ABS reluctor ring.
• You have a problem with other systems that are linked to the VSA system, such as the power steering, the engine or the transmission.

To fix the VSA light on your Honda, you need to:

• Check the VSA button and make sure it is not pressed accidentally.
• Check the tire pressure and condition and adjust or replace them as needed.
• Scan the fault codes with a diagnostic scanner and identify the source of the problem.
• Reset or replace the faulty sensor or component that is causing the problem.
• Fix any other problems that are causing the VSA light to come on.

You should not drive with the VSA light on, as this may indicate a serious malfunction that can affect the safety and performance of your Honda. You should pull over to a safe place and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Then, you should scan the fault codes with a diagnostic scanner and fix the problem or take your car to a mechanic for repair.

You can prevent the VSA light from coming on by maintaining your Honda regularly and properly. You should check and replace your tires, brakes, battery, alternator, spark plugs, sensors, switches and modules according to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. You should also avoid turning off the VSA system unless necessary.

We hope this article has helped you understand what causes the VSA light on your Honda and how to fix it. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading!

FAQs

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the VSA light on Honda vehicles:

What is the difference between the VSA light and the VSA OFF light?

The VSA light is a warning indicator that tells you if there is a problem with the VSA system or if it is turned off. The VSA OFF light is a reminder indicator that tells you if you have manually turned off the VSA system by pressing the VSA button on the dashboard.

How do I turn off the VSA light on my Honda?

To turn off the VSA light on your Honda, you need to fix the problem that is causing it to come on. You can do this by following the steps in this article, such as checking the VSA button, checking the tire pressure and condition, scanning the fault codes, resetting or replacing the faulty sensor or component, or fixing any other problems that are causing the VSA light to come on.

How do I turn on the VSA system on my Honda?

To turn on the VSA system on your Honda, you need to press the VSA button on the dashboard. The VSA OFF light should go off and the VSA system should be activated. You can also turn on the VSA system by restarting the engine, as the VSA system is turned on automatically every time you start the engine.

How much does it cost to fix the VSA light?

The cost to fix the VSA light depends on what is causing it to come on and what parts need to be repaired or replaced. The cost may vary from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the labor rate, diagnosis fee, parts price and tax. Here are some examples of common problems and their estimated costs: