VDC Light Meaning and Causes (How to Fix it)

The modern vehicle is equipped with many advanced technologies that will keep you safe on the roads. Vehicle Dynamic Control, which improves traction is just one example of such a system. The VDC light may appear on your dashboard if there's a problem.

This article will discuss the possible reasons why the VDC light may come on, and what you can do to fix it. 

VDC Light Significance

VDC means Vehicle Dynamic Control. When there are problems with the antilock brake system, or the traction system, the VDC indicator light will illuminate.

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) works with your car’s anti-lock brake system to provide more traction. VDC can cause vibrations in the brake pedal. This doesn’t mean that something is wrong with the system; it only indicates that everything is working as it should.

To prevent slippage, VDC will usually apply brakes at each wheel. VDC can apply the brakes at the front wheels to correct understeering. The vehicle will then turn in the right direction. VDC won't steer your car, but will provide feedback to help you maneuver the car.

VDC monitors the vehicle's direction and steering. It compares what the vehicle is doing with the intent of the driver. VDC doesn't do anything if the paths are identical. VDC can be used to correct wheel slippage and loss of traction if the paths are identical. 

VDC Light Causes

A defective ABS sensor or a malfunctioning steering angle sensor are the most frequent causes of VDC lights. You may also experience it if your vehicle is on poor quality roads. It can also be caused by bad steering racks or bad control modules.

This is a detailed listing of common causes of VDC lights:

1. Motor Sensors

Sensors are attached to each wheel that measure speed and function. The ECU receives any information from these sensors for analysis. To show that there are problems, an example is when a wheel slips, and it turns faster than others.

VDC is activated to decrease power and improve traction. The correct data may not get sent if the wheel sensor is damaged. If the VDC light is on, it will indicate that your sensor has been damaged or contains debris. 

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2. Malfunctioning Steering Angle Sensors 

All wheels with traction control will have steering angle sensors. These sensors are used to determine the angle of your wheel while you drive. The sensors can malfunction due to their position.

The VDC light will turn on if the sensors become damaged or fail. Even if you drive on smooth roads, this may happen. 

3. Cheap roads

VDC systems are designed to maintain stability on uneven terrain. If the weather is extreme, however, the VDC system could malfunction.

You might notice the VDC light blinking for a while when you drive on ice or snow. This is to indicate that traction has been restored. But, once your car is driving normal again, you should see the VDC light disappear. 

4. Bad Steering Rack

Based on your input, the steering rack will control the wheels. As part of the steering mechanism, it is situated on the car's body.

Hydraulic fluid turns the wheels of the steering rack. Failure or misalignment of the steering rack can cause problems with the vehicle's ability to steer, which could lead to the VDC lamp turning on. 

5. Defective ECU

There are numerous sensors communicating with the car’s computer at all times. The computer interprets the data and takes it to the appropriate action. The ECU must cut the power supply to the wheel to correct any slippage.

But the ECU can fail and isn't foolproof. When the ECU doesn’t read the messages from the sensors, it could cause the VDC light to come on.  

RELATED: Slip Light – What Does It Mean & Causes

VDC Light Fixes

First, identify the cause of the VDC lamp. The light should turn off when normal travel resumes. This is the best case scenario. 

You will have to replace the VDC light if it is lit by defective sensors. The sensors may be cleaned which can save you money. The wiring will be checked by a mechanic to make sure everything functions as expected. 

If your vehicle needs a replacement steering rack, or an ECU, it will be more expensive. It can be time-consuming to replace the steering rack. Also, it is important that your ECU be programmed professionally. 

A diagnostic scanner can help you find the problem codes and fix your VDC light.