Q: What does the Vehicle Dynamic Control off switch do?

asked by on December 14, 2015

What does the Vehicle Dynamic Control off switch do?

Your Altima is equipped with a stability and traction control system called the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).

The VDC system is designed to provide better traction during slippery driving by reducing engine output. This reduces wheel spin and can help get out of tight situations. It is on by default, and you can turn it off by using the VDC off switch.

To turn the VDC system back on, just press the off button again. It will also come back on automatically when you turn the engine off and then crank it once more (it will come back on even if you stopped the engine with it off).

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you use the automatic rearview mirror in a 2012 Ford Escape?
If your car is equipped with an automatic dimming rearview mirror, you have a convenient way to reduce the glare from cars behind you without having to do anything yourself. The mirror does it on its own. The automatic rearview...
Clicking noise in driver side rear tire
Hello there. It is possible that the clicking is due to the brake job. A few different items can cause the clicking after a brake job. The two most common would be the backing plate rubbing on the the brake...
Car hit by lightning and won't start.
You will need to have the vehicle towed to a dealer. I have seen many vehicles like this and in most cases, if not all, the computers in the vehicle get zapped and fried. I would recommend contacting your insurance...
Engine was swapped. I need to know how to tell if they put 1.8 or 2.0 back in?
Each of those engine sizes have unique casting numbers embossed on the head, block, etc. The casting numbers for the 1.8L are Block Cast # 5M0; In-Line Head Cast # 5M0; Cam Cast # 5M0-5M0 or 4M5-4M5; and Crankshaft Cast...
Car door alarm sensors keep going off while car is on, because of that I can't even lock my doors when it's off.
Hi and thanks for contacting Your Mechanic. What seem to happen is a door sensor / switch has failed. Turn on the dome light to door and shut all of the doors. See if the light dims after shutting all...
Noise when turning the steering on motion 2007 Toyota Camry
Hello - your symptoms suggest worn strut bearings (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/do-strut-bearings-wear-out-if-they-are-worn-out-or-bad-will-it-cause-further-damage-if-i-continue-to-use-the-car-by-bill-f), which can make the noises you describe when turning the steering wheel. These components are especially sensitive to doing this in colder weather. I would recommend a suspension inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brakes-steering-and-suspension-inspection) by...
Car has battery power but won't start
The battery condition can only be determined using a professional "load tester". Battery stores will perform this test for free. A volt meter is not the appropriate tool. If you used a load tester and the battery passed, then the...
My jeep won't stay running.
Most of the time, the hard to start issue you're describing is caused either by the crankshaft position sensor or the electrical harness attached to this component. Since you've replaced most of the ignition system components, you might want to...
When my car is idling at ref light it's shakes as if it's going to die. What is the problem?
Shaking or vibration (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-is-shaking-pulsating-or-vibrating-inspection) may be caused by many different things such as faulty spark plugs, poor fuel pressure or misfires. Other things such as a faulty idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) may cause the engine idle to drop below...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Kia Sorento
While While Kia may still be headquartered in Korea, the 2012 Kia Sorento is made right here in the United States, making it easier for Kia to put a lower price tag on this fully loaded compact SUV. With a...
A Buyer's Guide to the 2012 Cadillac Escalade
When When you’ve said “Cadillac Escalade”, you’ve pretty much said it all. The Escalade has been synonymous with luxury since it first hit the scene in 1999. With the 2012 edition, Cadillac proved nothing has changed. If you want to...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford Fiesta
This This subcompact vehicle is available as a 4-door sedan as well as a 5-door hatchback. The prices for the vehicle are very low, even for the models that are decked out with all of the optional features. Those who...