If you are getting the VSA light (Usually followed by a check engine light) on your Honda Odyssey van minivan. then this article is for you.
I worked on a few Honda Odysseys with the same problem and fortunately, it’s an easy fix.
Let’s look at what causes the VSA light to come on your Honda Odyssey and how to fix the problem. Let’s get to it.
What is Honda Odyssey VSA?
Before we get to why this light comes on, it is critical to know what it means to begin with.
Honda VSA stands for Vehicle Stability Assist and it’s a system that keeps your Odyssey from skidding or fishtailing.
The main system uses sensors to identify when your Honda is Understeering or Oversteering and then applies brakes to correct the problem.
In most cases, this system works well and you won’t even know it’s there.
What Causes Honda Odyssey VSA Light to Come On?
Since this system is related to the traction control of your Odyssey, you would assume it will be caused by traction control-related components right?
Well, that’s not always the case especially after working on a lot of Honda odyssey vans with the same issue.
The main cause of the VSA light on a Honda Odyssey from my experience is low engine oil.
As surprising as It sounds, this is the most common cause of VSA on a Honda Odyssey. Especially if the check engine light comes on as well.
Ps the VSA Light is not related to the check engine light but comes when there is an issue in the system and is commonly caused by low oil levels.
Honda VSA Light Signs
When the VSA Light Comes on your Dashboard, your Van will also experience the following symptoms:
Your Odyssey Is Vibrating Excessively
One of the first things you will likely notice is that the van vibrates uncomfortably.
Sluggish Acceleration
Your Odyssey will not accelerate as quickly as it usually does, and you may have to push on the gas pedal harder than usual. When you do get moving, your Odyssey will be slow to respond and feel like it is dragging
Noticeable Power Loss
Your Odyssey will not feel like it has the same power as usual and may feel sluggish when you are trying to accelerate. If you have a manual transmission, the gearshift may feel stiffer than normal.
How to Fix and Reset the VSA Light on a Honda Odyssey
Now, that you know what causes the VSA light to come on and how it affects your Honda Odyssey, let’s move on to how you can fix the problem and reset it.
Step 1: Use a Dip Stick to Check the Engine Oil Level
The first thing that I recommend you do is use your Honda Odyssey dipstick to check the engine oil level.
This will help you gauge how much oil is in the engine and how much you If you see that the oil level is too low, then you can use that information to determine whether or not your Honda Odyssey needs an oil change or if it just needs a little bit of extra oil added.
As a mechanic, I personally recommend that you get an oil change. This is because your Honda Odyssey motor oil is already old and it’s not worth risking an engine failure over something as simple as adding a little bit more oil than usual.
Step 2: Top Up/ Change the Engine Oil
Depending on how much oil your Honda Odyssey needs, you can either add a little bit more or change the entire engine oil.
Both are relatively easy to do and you can do it yourself, all you have to do is know the recommended oil capacity and oil type for your Honda odyssey model year and engine size when performing an oil change.
If you want to just add oil, then use a dipstick to measure the amount of oil that’s in your engine. If it needs a little bit more, then add some and check again until you get to the recommended level. This will help prevent overfilling the engine.
Step 3: Reset Your Honda Odyssey
After you’ve changed or topped up the engine oil, you will need to reset the vehicle’s system in order to clear the VSA light.
There are two ways to go about doing this;
Method 1: Using an OBD Scanner
If you have access to an OBD Scanner you can simply plug it into your Odyssey, and clear all fault codes. This should do the trick
Method 2: Disconnecting the Battery Terminals
The other option is to disconnect the right terminal for 5-10 minutes and reconnect it. This will clear the VSA light and reset your Honda Odyssey’s system.
After you have done this, simply start your vehicle and the VSA light should be gone, if you still getting the issue then I recommend taking it to the Honda dealer, however, I am confident the steps above should solve the problem.
Additional Sources
http://techinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/om/rl0000/rl0000o00189a.pdf
https://www.autolist.com/honda-odyssey/honda-odyssey-generations
https://www.amsoil.com/lookup/auto-and-light-truck/2012/honda/odyssey/3-5l-6-cyl-engine-code-j35z8-n