A vehicle control system for detecting an obstacle present ahead on the road in the course of travel of a vehicle, comprising a first laser radar mounted on the vehicle which emits an electromagnetic beam to detect the obstacle present ahead on the road, and second and third laser radars which measures distances between the first laser radar and the road surface at different angles. The system determines whether the first laser radar is mounted on the vehicle such that the laser beam central axis is horizontal or inclines upward or downward relative to the road surface or vehicle body, based on the distances, a height of the first laser radar from the road surface, the angles at which the distances are measured and reference values. The system may correct the inclination if determined. With the arrangement, the system ensures detection of an obstacle on the road without fail and conduction of a desired obstacle avoidance control.