Toyota Tundra is one of the most popular full-sized pickup trucks on the market. It’s known for its reliability, durability, and performance.
But like any other vehicle, it can experience problems from time to time. One of the most common issues Tundra owners experience is Drive Start Control Malfunction.
Drive Start Control Malfunction can be caused by a failed sensor, a rusty connection, driving mistakes, a bad catalytic converter, or even something as simple as low battery voltage.
If this happens, the truck won’t start, and you’ll see the “DRIVE-START CONTROL MALFUNCTION- VISIT YOUR DEALER” message on the instrument panel.
This article will discuss the symptoms and causes of Drive Start Control Malfunction. We will also shed light on how to fix it!
Table of Contents
What is the Drive Start Control System?
The Drive Start Control System is a safety feature in Toyota vehicles that helps avoid over-speeding or excessive acceleration problems. It does so by communicating with the vehicle’s computer system.
When you accidentally press too much on the accelerator, the system automatically engages and slows the car down to a safe driving speed. This feature is designed to help Toyota drivers maintain control of their vehicles at all times.
The problem with abrupt acceleration is that it can cause serious accidents. That’s why the Drive Start Control System was put in place- to help keep drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safe.
What are the Symptoms of Drive Start Control Malfunction?
If your Toyota’s Drive Start Control System is malfunctioning, it can cause your car to speed up unexpectedly. Let us explore the symptoms of this problem in detail:
1. Dashboard Warning Light:
You will see the “DRIVE-START CONTROL MALFUNCTION- VISIT YOUR DEALER” message on the instrument panel.
This is perhaps the most obvious symptom of the problem. If you see this message, there is an issue with the Drive Start Control System, and you need to take your car to a Toyota dealer for diagnosis and repair.
It may be accompanied by other dashboard lights, such as the check engine light.
2. Reduced Engine Power:
If the drive start control function malfunctions, it may cause the engine to lose power. This can make it difficult to accelerate or even maintain a steady speed.
You may also notice that your car is idling rough when this problem occurs. In some cases, the engine may stall completely.
3. Irresponsive Accelerator:
Another symptom of this problem is an unresponsive accelerator. You may press the gas pedal, but the car doesn’t respond as it should.
This can be extremely dangerous, especially if you’re trying to merge onto a busy highway or pass another vehicle. It can also make it difficult to control your car, leading to accidents.
6 Causes of DSC Malfunction in Toyota Tundra
Now that we’ve discussed the symptoms of Drive Start Control Malfunction, let’s take a look at some of the common causes:
- Novice Driving
- Bad Catalytic Converter
- Faulty Wiring or Blown Fuse
- Sensor Malfunction
- Bad MAF Sensor
- Corroded Connectors
Let us see in detail how each of these can cause the Drive Start Control System to malfunction:
1. Novice Driving:
One of the most common causes of problems with drive start control technology is novice driving. If you’re not used to driving a Toyota Tundra, you may press the brakes and accelerator at the same time.
This can confuse the Drive Start Control System and cause it to malfunction. So, be careful when driving a Tundra for the first time and avoid pressing both pedals simultaneously.
The system may also malfunction if you accidentally press too hard on the accelerator. This can cause the system to engage and slow the car down.
The best way to avoid this problem is to practice driving your Tundra in an empty parking lot or a quiet street before taking it out on the highway.
2. Bad Catalytic Converter:
Another common cause of this problem is a bad catalytic converter. The catalytic converter is responsible for converting the engine’s harmful emissions into less harmful ones.
If the converter is not functioning properly, it can cause an increase in emissions that can trigger the Drive Start Control system to engage. This can cause the car to slow down unexpectedly and may even cause it to stall.
A faulty converter can not only cause Drive Start Control problems, but it can also lead to other engine issues. Having your catalytic converter replaced by a qualified mechanic will help ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely.
3. Faulty Wiring or Blown Fuse:
Faulty wiring is one of the most common causes of Drive Start Control Malfunction in Toyota. This can happen for several reasons, such as bad weather, improper installation, or simply because the wires have become old and frayed.
If you suspect your car’s wiring is to blame for the problem, it is best to take it to a qualified mechanic who can check it for you and fix the issue. The connection to vehicle’s ignition system may be compromised as well.
Another problem that may occur in the same context is a blown fuse. The Drive Start Control system uses a fuse to help regulate the flow of electricity.
If this fuse is blown, it can cause the system to malfunction. In some cases, the car may not start at all. Other times, the vehicle may start, but the accelerator will not work properly.
4. Sensor Malfunction:
Another common issue that can cause the Drive Start Control system to malfunction is a sensor problem. The sensors in your car are responsible for sending information to the computer about the car’s speed, acceleration, and braking.
One type of sensor is called a speed sensor. Speed sensors detect how fast the car moves and send this information to the Drive Start Control System.
If a speed sensor malfunctions, it could cause the system to engage when it should not or fail to engage when it should. This could lead to accidents.
Another type of sensor in the Drive Start Control System is called an accelerator pedal position sensor. This sensor detects how far down the accelerator pedal is being pressed.
The ABS sensor is yet another type of sensor in the Drive Start Control System. The ABS sensor monitors the speed of the wheels and sends this information to the system.
If one of these sensors is not working properly, it can cause the Drive Start Control system to engage prematurely or not engage at all. This can lead to reduced engine power or an unresponsive accelerator.
5. Bad MAF Sensor:
A bad MAF sensor can cause the Drive Start Control system to malfunction in Toyota vehicles. The MAF sensor measures the amount of airflow into the engine. If it is not working properly, it can cause the car to accelerate too quickly, which can lead to an accident.
The connection between the MAF sensor and the Drive Start Control system is that the MAF sensor sends a signal to the system when it detects a rapid increase in airflow. The system then automatically engages and slows the car down to a safe speed.
6. Corroded Connectors:
Corroded battery terminals or other electrical connectors can cause all sorts of problems in a car, including interfering with the Drive Start Control System.
Especially in the DSC system, connectors are important because they help to deliver power to the electronic control unit.
If these get corroded, it can cause communication problems between the ECU and other parts of the car. This can lead to all sorts of problems, including the DSC System malfunctioning.
How to Fix Drive Start Control Malfunction?
The best thing you can do if your car has Drive Start Control Malfunction is to take it to a qualified mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it for you.
Though there are a few things you can do to fix Drive Start Control Malfunction:
1. Cleaning the Connectors:
One of the first things you can try is cleaning the connectors. This is especially important if you think that corrosion might be to blame for the problem.
You can use a wire brush or other type of cleaner to remove any corrosion from the terminals. Once you have done this, you should reconnect them and see if the problem has been fixed. If this does not work, you may need to replace the connectors entirely.
Make sure to get ones compatible with your car model and year.
2. Replace Spark Plugs and Wires:
Another thing you can try is replacing the spark plugs and wires. This is a pretty easy fix that you can do yourself.
First, you must find the right spark plugs for your car. You can usually find this information in the owner’s manual. Once you have the right ones, simply remove the old ones and replace them with the new ones.
Next, you will need to replace the spark plug wires. To do this, remove the bad spark plug cables from the spark plugs.
Then, get new wires compatible with your car and attach them to the plugs. Once they are all connected, screw them back into place and test your vehicle to see if the problem has been fixed.
The estimated cost of replacing the spark plugs and wires is about $200.
3. Cleaning of Catalytic Converter:
If your catalytic converter is clogged, it can cause many problems, including interfering with the Drive Start Control System.
The best way to clean your catalytic converter is to take it to a professional. A professional will charge you about $150 for the professional cleaning service.
But you do it yourself as well. The process is not difficult, but it is time-consuming. First, you will need to remove the catalytic converter from your car. Then, using a brush and some cleaner, scrub all of the surfaces of the converter.
4. Replace Battery:
At times a dead or dying battery is the root of the problem. This is especially true if your car is having trouble starting.
If you think your battery might be to blame for the Drive Start Control Malfunction, you can try replacing it yourself. The average cost of a new battery is less than $75.
Conclusion
The Drive Start Control System is a critical safety feature in Toyota vehicles. This system is crucial for safe driving.
If this system malfunctions, it can cause all sorts of problems. Which may lead to accidents. That is why it is important to know what can cause this system to malfunction and how to fix it.
Drive Start Control Malfunction can be caused by several things mentioned in this article. You can try to solve a few things, including cleaning the connectors, replacing the spark plugs and wires, or cleaning the catalytic converter.
What are your thoughts on Drive Start Control Malfunction? Have you ever experienced this problem with your car? Let us know in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive with a drive start control malfunction warning light?
See, the drive start control system is just a safety feature. Like any other safety feature, it provides an added security layer.
Though there is nothing to worry about if the drive control warning sign comes on, it is always best to take it to a mechanic.
If you continue to drive with the warning light on, it could result in an accident. Therefore, it is always best to get it checked by a professional as soon as possible.
How do I know if my catalytic converter is bad?
There are several ways to tell if your catalytic converter is going bad. One way is to listen to rattling noise when you start your car.
This can be caused by a build-up of debris in the converter. Another way to tell if your converter is going bad is by looking at your car’s exhaust fumes.
If they are darker than usual, or if there is excessive smoke, this could be a sign that the converter is not working properly.
Finally, if your car seems to be losing power or having trouble accelerating, this could also be a sign of a problem with the catalytic converter.
Why drive start control system has become so important in Toyota vehicles?
The benefits of the drive start control system in Toyota vehicles are many. Some are listed here:
1. Avoid Speeding Problems:
The Drive Start Control System helps you avoid speeding problems by automatically engaging and slowing the car down to a safe driving speed.
2. Maintain Control of Your Car:
This system helps you maintain control of your car at all times, giving you an added sense of security while driving.
3. Fuel Saving:
The Drive Start Control System can also help you save fuel by automatically engaging and slowing the car down when you accidentally press too hard on the accelerator.
How can you avoid drive start control malfunction?
There are a few things you can do to avoid drive start control malfunction:
1. Read the Owner’s Manual:
Be sure to read the owner’s manual for your car so that you understand how the system works and what to do if the warning light comes on.
2. Drive Safely:
As with any safety feature, following safe driving practices will help avoid any problems with the drive start control system. Drive carefully and always be aware of your surroundings while driving.
3. Brake and Gas Coordination:
Make sure to coordinate your braking and gas pedal usage. Sudden stops can cause the drive start control system to engage, which may lead to problems.
