VSA light and (!) In triangle light are on after having my car repaired

AE

MEMBER
2005 ACURA TSX
AUTOMATIC
218,000 MILES

I recently had my steering rack and pinion replaced. (Two weeks ago). I was informed that I will need to get an alignment and (cannot remember what my mechanic called it) but it is supposed to be included in a full alignment service to rectify the steering wheel being off (as in not centered when the wheels are centered).

The next day from getting my car back I noticed my radio needed a reset code and before contacting my mechanic, I did a dumb thing and mashed numbers not understanding what code it needed and it error-ed out. So I took it back to him and he reset it by doing something under the hood (I think it was the battery) and after about 30-45 minutes, the code prompt came up and we were able to locate the correct code and now my radio and clock works like normal.

But, now I see the (!) In triangle light come on when I start my car and the VSA light comes on after I drive it for a minute. I have pushed the VSA off button but it does nothing. (Not sure what to do to remove the light so I tried something!).

I need to know why is it on now? And is the alignment going to clear the lights? What is the best resolution?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,700 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

First, anytime the battery is disconnected, you have to reset the radio, so although he should have done that prior to returning the vehicle, it isn't something to be concerned about. Also, yes, it should be aligned. If the steering wheel spoke angle isn't straight when you are driving straight, that will get adjusted with the alignment or at least they should do it. Make sure you tell them the steering wheel needs centered when going straight.

Now for the vehicle stability assistance (VSA), this system is tied into the anti lock brake system. Since major repairs were done to the front of the vehicle, my first suspect is one of the wheel speed sensors was left loose, disconnected, or damaged. With a scanner, you can read the diagnostic trouble codes and determine where the problem is. If you don't have one and would like to check the sensors, here is a link that shows in general how it is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/abs-wheel-speed-sensor-test

Here is how in general one is replaced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-abs-wheel-speed-sensor

Here are a couple links that explain how to use the basic tools to check to sensors:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

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If you look at the picture I attached, it shows where the sensor is located on your vehicle's front, which is where I would check first with the work that was done.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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