Having the vehicle stability assist or VSA is important to have proper traction control when you drive your Honda Accord. However, you may need to turn it off at times, but how do you do that? We have laid out the steps to do so in this article.
To turn off the VSA in a Honda Accord, follow these steps:
- First, locate the VSA button, which is located under the left vent.
- Next, hold the VSA button until you hear a beep.
- You will now see a "VSA OFF" indicator on the dashboard.
- To turn the VSA back on, you must press the VSA button again.
The majority of the time you drive, you won't need to turn your VSA off. However, there are certain times when it will be handy to do so.
This article will discuss what vehicle stability assist does and why you need to turn it off. In addition, we will discuss and answer other frequently asked questions about the Honda Accord, so read on.
How To Turn Off VSA Light On Honda Accord
Vehicle stability assist is similar to the traction control system. It makes sure the vehicle doesn't spin out or go off course. VSA is made up of sensors installed inside the car that detect how fast your wheels are spinning.
The ECU will determine if you're going too fast for the environment around you and then cut power to the engine, apply brakes selectively, or both.
By turning off the VSA on your Honda Accord, you allow for more wheel spin while still being able to brake selectively. However, this is not recommended in wet conditions because it can cause you to lose control of your car or hydroplane which means that too much water is coming into contact with your tires while driving fast.
You will only need to turn off your Honda Accord's VSA if you're having a hard time getting up a hill due to wheel spin or if you're ever stuck on ice and need a little extra power to get out of it. Once you've resolved your issue, turn the vehicle stability assist back on.
In this situation, you can turn off your VSA in your Honda Accord by pressing and holding the VSA button. The VSA button is typically located under the left vent by the steering wheel. Hold the button until you hear a beep and the "VSA OFF" light indicator comes on the dash.
To turn your VSA back on, press the button again, and it'll be back to normal.
What Does VSA Mean on Honda Accord?
The VSA is an acronym that stands for Vehicle Stability Assist. This feature allows the driver to maintain control of the vehicle by sensing the wheels' speed and then applying selective brakes as needed.
In terms of how it all works, a sensor inside your car detects if you're going too fast for your current driving environment. Once the computer detects that you're at risk of losing control, it activates your VSA to get you back on track.
The VSA in a Honda Accord is very helpful when navigating through wet conditions or around corners because it prevents wheel slippage and decreases the chances of your vehicle going out of control.
The VSA is usually on by default, so you won't have to worry about turning it off. However, there are a few instances where it will need to be turned off, as we mentioned earlier.
What Causes a VSA Light to Come On?
Usually, your VSA light will come on if you are experiencing slippage. You can tell by looking at the traction control light on your dash. These circumstances typically include icy roads when your Honda Accord has difficulties gaining traction and spinning the wheels.
Another common reason for your VSA light to come on is if your wheel speed sensor or ABS [anti-lock brake system] wheel modules are not working correctly.
However, there are times when your VSA light will be on even though you haven't experienced any slippage. This usually happens when the Honda Accord needs to be serviced or when an electrical issue occurs.
Lastly, if your VSA light comes on, this means that the system has detected a malfunction and disengaged. Therefore, it's essential to pay attention to the VSA light to know what is wrong with your car.
You may be able to fix the problem yourself, or you can take it to a mechanic for further inspection. However, if your VSA light is on, it likely means that there has been a malfunction in the system, which will need to be repaired.
Can I Drive With a VSA Light?
You can still drive with the VSA light on, as you will still have the same braking capabilities. However, you will lack the traction needed for slippery roads. This can be dangerous because your Honda Accord won't handle around corners, and you might find yourself in an accident.
If you have a VSA light on, avoid driving on wet roads. It is also best to use to take sharp turns, such as those around corners. This will help with maintaining stability and preventing yourself from becoming injured.
Should I Keep VSA On or Off?
Typically, the VSA light is on by default in almost any vehicle, including the Honda Accord. However, if the road conditions quickly change, you need the VSA to be on. Again, as mentioned earlier, you will only turn the VSA off if you are stuck in deep snow, mud, or attempting to climb a slippery hill.
Is traction control the same as VSA?
The answer to this question is yes and no. Traction control and VSA are similar in how they work to restrict tire spin when the ECU detects slippage.
However, the difference is that traction control uses the brakes to stop the tires from spinning. In comparison, vehicle stability assist cuts the power to the tires to keep them from spinning.
Both are very effective in helping you maintain control over your Honda Accord when driving through challenging road conditions.
Does every car have VSA?
Vehicle stability assist has been a regulated requirement in every produced vehicle since 2012. The requirement includes traction control and is a safety feature for drivers. The idea of these systems is to prevent accidents and keep drivers safe.
They were not regulated until 2012 because vehicle stability assist was new to the market. Before being introduced as a feature, these systems were only available on luxury models such as Mercedes-Benz and BMWs. However, the introduction of vehicle stability assist was so significant that it warranted regulation and inclusion in all manufactured vehicles.
When should I turn VSA off?
You turn the VSA light off if the vehicle is completely stuck and not moving. Turn the VSA light off and attempt the rocking motion in this situation. This means to work your way forward until the snow or mud stops the vehicle.
Next, reverse the vehicle until it is stopped again. Repeat this process and turn the wheels in different directions until you can work your way out of being stuck. In this situation, it is also a good idea to remove as much obstruction from the tires and underneath the vehicle as possible.
If you still can't get unstuck after several attempts, it will be wise to call for help. A friend with a truck and a tow rope will save you money. However, contact a local tow truck for assistance if that's not an option.
What is the difference between VSA and ABS?
Vehicle stability assist includes several different systems to control power to your Honda Accord's wheels. The main system you are probably familiar with is anti-lock braking systems or ABS.
The idea behind this system is that when your tires are traveling around a corner too fast, then the ABS applies the brakes multiple times in rapid succession. This helps to keep your car from skidding out of control during a turn or while stopping.
As stated earlier, traction control is another system that works with VSA to manage tire spin and slippage while turning or changing directions.
ABS can be easily identified by how it responds when you skid or lose control of the vehicle. For example, if the wheels lock up and your car does not respond to steering inputs, it is a clear case of ABS being activated.
Final Thoughts
Vehicle stability assist works to keep you safe when attempting to drive on slippery roads or during harsh weather conditions. However, you must understand how each component operates with the system included on your Honda Accord.
However, if you are still unsure, it would be best to contact a local mechanic who can assist you. By taking a few minutes to learn how your vehicle stability assist components work, you can save yourself a lot of time and money when it comes to being stuck or in need of a tow truck.
For more articles like this one, then check these out:
Can A Honda Accord Be Flat Towed?
Honda Accord Gas Light On – How Much Is Left?
How To Start Honda Accord With Key [Or Without]
