hopper

Is the VSC/TRAC system on the 2001-2012 4runners as bad as everyone says?

Im not aware of the system as my previous 4runner was 1998 in flavor.

Is the system disabled in 4 low?
Ive done some research and it seem hit or miss on the disabling the system, anything solid figured out as far as disabling it?

Is it so bad that I should stay away from buying a 2002?

Thank you.

bugs1961

I really dislike the system and feel it is a hazard in some situations. I've pulled out of a business into a fairly busy city street and had a wheel start slipping due to sand along the edge of the street. The system kicks in and cuts power, along with braking the slipping tire. There was enough room for me to accelerate briskly to the flow of traffic but not enough when the engine power was cut and the vehicle basically just sat there. An accident was barely avoided due to an attentive driver coming at me braking hard. Here in Anchorage, I drive on snow and ice eight months a year. I would not be able to drive the 4Runner if I didn't disable the system.

I disabled the system by unplugging the smaller connector at the ABS actuator near the brake master cylinder. This turned on the VSC/TRAC and ABS lights and shut down the system. I removed the dash (really simple) and took the light bulbs out so I didn't have to look at them anymore.

This is reversible by plugging the connector back in if you ever want to. Disconnecting the battery will cancel the codes.