GX - 1st Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2003 -2009 GX470 models

05 GX VSC OFF & Center Differential Lock lights on

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Old 03-23-13, 08:12 AM
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mansito
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Default 05 GX VSC OFF & Center Differential Lock lights on

The VSC OFF and Center Differential Lock lights come on yesterday on my wife's 05 GX470. I connected the OBD2 code reader, but it says "no error codes found". Since there are no error codes, I am at a lost in trying to figure out the root cause. Any suggestions?
Attached Thumbnails 05 GX VSC OFF & Center Differential Lock lights on-gx470.jpg  

Last edited by mansito; 03-23-13 at 08:30 AM. Reason: adding pic
Old 03-23-13, 11:35 AM
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IanB2
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Try turning off the center diff lock, just looks like someone hit the button and locked it up, no big problem. The "VSC off" light comes on with the diff lock.
Old 03-24-13, 04:05 PM
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mansito
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Originally Posted by IanB2
Try turning off the center diff lock, just looks like someone hit the button and locked it up, no big problem. The "VSC off" light comes on with the diff lock.
I did that. When I press the center diff lock switch the center diff lock indicator on the dashboard blinks, but it never goes off. I guess a visit to the local lexus dealer is order tomorrow. I'll post when I find a solution to the problem.
Old 03-24-13, 04:16 PM
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IanB2
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If it doesn't get used much, it could just be stuck. Try turning it off and driving around in figure 8's in a gravel/loose surface parking lot so it can unbind and release on its own.
Old 03-24-13, 06:53 PM
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mansito
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Originally Posted by IanB2
If it doesn't get used much, it could just be stuck. Try turning it off and driving around in figure 8's in a gravel/loose surface parking lot so it can unbind and release on its own.
Good idea. I cannot recall a time when it was turn-on. I think it has never been used. the GX has never been off-road. I'll try your suggestion tomorrow.
Old 03-25-13, 03:23 PM
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mansito
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It was stuck from lack of use. Before I took the GX to a gravel area as suggested by IanB2, I read the manual carefully. It suggests to drive it in reverse when the VSC OFF and the Center Diff Lock lights are on. I put it in reverse in my driveway, and before I go to the end of the driveway the lights went off. IanB2, thanks for the suggestion. I bet doing eights on a gravel road would have unlocked the center diff also.
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Old 03-25-13, 04:27 PM
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Originally Posted by mansito
It was stuck from lack of use. Before I took the GX to a gravel area as suggested by IanB2, I read the manual carefully. It suggests to drive it in reverse when the VSC OFF and the Center Diff Lock lights are on. I put it in reverse in my driveway, and before I go to the end of the driveway the lights went off. IanB2, thanks for the suggestion. I bet doing eights on a gravel road would have unlocked the center diff also.
Glad to hear you got it sorted out!
Old 03-26-13, 05:45 AM
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06isDriver
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i love a happy ending
Old 04-01-13, 07:43 AM
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mansito
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Originally Posted by 06isDriver
i love a happy ending
Agree. Owner forums are great. They provide an avenue to share experiences and educate us on solving problems. I am a DIY on all my vehicles. I do the work not only to save money, but most important for the satisfaction that the work is done right using the highest quality parts. I hope this thread help other owners solve similar problems.
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Old 04-01-13, 09:48 PM
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mann777
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That's what CL is all about, we help each other as far as we can, give solutions & at the end of the day the member is happy.
Old 10-27-13, 08:25 AM
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Default Thanks - had same issue, fixed it with your advice

Just a thank-you to you guys for posting this thread. Had the light, envisioned expensive repairs, did some gravel 8's in reverse, all is well. THANKS!
Old 10-27-13, 05:42 PM
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In the old days, backing up was the "tried & true" method for getting any four wheel drive out of 4WD
Old 10-27-13, 05:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Crispy3M
In the old days, backing up was the "tried & true" method for getting any four wheel drive out of 4WD
I've had my center diff stick once and before I even got to the end of my drive way in reserve it unstuck itself.

The only time I had to do figure 8s was to recalculate my MDXs navigation. Those people on the top level of the parking garage were probably like, what the hell is that guy doing.
Old 10-27-13, 10:45 PM
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I wouldn't dare start doing figure 8's... with my luck I'd end up finding out the CV's are shot... LOL!
Old 10-28-13, 01:21 AM
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Originally Posted by crispy3m
i wouldn't dare start doing figure 8's... With my luck i'd end up finding out the cv's are shot... Lol!
I have luck like that too.


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