Vehicle Skid Control (VSC)?

[Master Yoder]

I noticed a button to the left of the steering wheel, if I push it nothing happens but when it is in 4WD and I push it a light comes on that says VSC.

What does this do? Obviously it is Vehicle Skid Control but what determines if it is needed, it seems like anytime you are in 4WD mode you will need all the traction you can so do you all normall leave it on while your in 4WD mode?

Also, how do I tell if I have differential locking, I think that is what it is called. I have a 2002 SR5 Sport.

Thanks.

 

[pat161]

Well the second question is easy, you have an 02 and the rear diff lock was discontinued after the 00 model year, so you don't have it. As for the button, take a closer look next time your in 4wd and you push this button, the light should say VSC OFF. The 01 and 02 3rd gen 4wd are all equipped w/ a center diff, which allows slippage between the front and rear axles, and thus full time 4wd. When you push the button, which should have a little picture of two axles and a driveshaft w/ an X in the middle, this locks the center diff and puts you in a traditional part time 4wd mode. This also overrides the VSC as this is the feature that can cut out your throttle if it detects wheel spin, so if you are stuck in a snowbank or mud and every time you push the gas to try to free yourself the engine just cuts out, well I think you get the idea.

 

[Master Yoder]

Great thanks for your help. So to make sure I understand, if you push the button the light will say VSC Off, when VSC is off it locks the center diff and then puts you in part time 4WD.

So for most situations you are better off with VSC on and in full time 4WD unless you are barely getting any traction? Does that sound right or did I screw it up? But all in all the full time 4WD is better right?

4X4's are awsome I wish I would have bought one sooner. For some reason I have this strong urge to go out in the woods and drive around . I really can't wait for our first snow too.

 

[toto]

While forum members can help you with more specific answers, believe it or not the Owners' Manual covers the 4WD system quite extensively. You may wish to consult that, too.

If you didn't get an Owners Manual, you can order one for $15.95 through your Toyota dealer or their publications department at 1-800-622-2033. Or, you can download it in PDF format if you pay $10 for a one-day subscription to Toyota Tech Info System (TIS) at http://techinfo.toyota.com.

 

[pat161]

I would look at it more like when you push the button it locks the center diff and shuts off VSC, not the other way around.

And yes, being in 4wd w/ the center diff unlocked is the best thing if you are on slippery pavement or even a mild forest road. If you venture into tougher terrain then you should lock the center.

 

[Master Yoder]

Ok, that makes sense.

Yep, the manual is a good thing to read.