Lexus IS & GS - VDC can be turned off

[thx007]

Ok, this will make the IS350 more appealing, if you can handle a process with each startup that rivals the kneeboard checklist for a 747...

How to disable VDC in 2006 GS and IS... (per Automobile magazine)

After being continually frustrated with our inability to completely turn off the GS’s traction and stability control system, we recently learned from an anonymous source how to disable the overprotective electro-nanny. Road test coordinator Marc Noordeloos performed the complicated procedure, took a test drive, and, while grinning from ear to ear, pronounced the car transformed. If you own a 2006 GS (or IS), follow these steps and enjoy the slide. Once the car is started, you have thirty seconds to complete the process. With practice, the procedure can be completed in approximately fifteen seconds but, unfortunately, must be repeated each time the car is switched off.

1. Make sure the car is in Park and the parking brake is disengaged before you start the car.
2. Start the engine.
3. Engage the parking brake.
4. Fully depress the brake pedal and then release.
5. Fully depress the brake pedal and then release.
6. Disengage the parking brake.
7. Fully depress and hold down the brake pedal.
8. Engage the parking brake, then disengage it (while holding down the brake pedal).
9. Engage the parking brake, then disengage it (while holding down the brake pedal).
10. Release the brake pedal.
11. Engage the parking brake.
12. Fully depress the brake pedal and then release.
13. Fully depress the brake pedal and then release.

When “Check VSC� is displayed in the multifunction display along with the “Trac-off� icon indicator, you’ll know that you have successfully completed the procedure.

[GZire]

Interesting article there. Now Lexus just has to find people young enough to want to do that with a GS.

[Edge]

Be careful with that. This is most definitely part of some test/calibration procedure, not something they want you to know. I can try to find out exactly what it is for. If it's a procedure done at the factory before the car comes off the line, you can bet the operator can get this done in about 5sec. Now just imagine him/her doing that as fast as possible...

[thx007]

You would have to explain to your passengers why you have a seizure everytime you get in your car...