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Lexus IS: How to Disable VDIM

So you want to have a little fun in your Lexus, but that pesky VDIM is keeping you from laying down some rubber. We've got a simple, step-by-step guide on how to disable your Lexus' VDIM system so you can burn some rubber - literally.

By Brett Foote - December 10, 2014

This article applies to the Lexus IS 250, IS 350 (2005-2014).

Traction control is both a blessing and a curse. It's nice to have when conditions get slippery or dangerous and you simply want to get your family home safe. But for enthusiasts, it can be a pain when you want to go out and have a little fun. Most traction control systems work by prevent wheel spin regardless of whether you want it or not.

Lexus calls their system Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management. The good news is that you can disable your Lexus' VDIM system with just a few simple steps. Read on to see how it's done.

Step 1 - Start the car with the parking brake engaged

Make sure your parking brake is on, press and hold the brake pedal, and start your engine.

Figure 1. Ensure your parking brake is on before starting the car.

Step 2 - Push or tap the brake pedal twice

Keeping the parking break on, push or tap the brake pedal twice once the car is started.

Figure 2. Push or tap the brake pedal twice once the car is started.

Step 3 - Keeping the brake pedal down, disengage and engage the parking brake twice

Push down the brake pedal and hold it, then disengage and engage the parking brake twice.

Step 4 - Repeat until the sliding car warning light appears on the dash

Continue cycling steps 1-3 until the warning light that looks like a sliding car appears on your dash. This usually only takes two complete cycles.

Figure 3. Repeat steps 1-3 and you should see this warning light.

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