Cruise Control Not Working: Reasons and Quick Fixes

How to fix cruise control not working is essential knowledge if you want to improve your driving experience and are frustrated when the cruise control system keeps malfunctioning. Cruise control can stop working due to a blown fuse, faulty brake switch, malfunctioning speed sensor, broken cruise control switch, vacuum leak and wiring issues.

Therefore, we will shed some light on how you can accomplish that by detailing the potential causes of the issues and their surefire fixes in the guide below!

How To Identify and Fix Issues With Cruise Control?

To identify and fix issues with cruise control, check for blown fuses or leaks in the vacuum compartment. You’ll also need to inspect the cruise control switch and the brake switch for any signs of problems. Something might also be wrong with the wiring or the speed sensor.

1. Blown Fuse

A blown fuse can be a significant culprit for cruise control failure, which can be a frustrating experience for drivers who rely on it. Fortunately, fixing this problem is relatively easy and can save you time and money on repairs.

The first step is to locate the fuse box in your car, typically under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Once you’ve found the fuse box, refer to your car’s manual to find the specific fuse that controls the cruise control system. This information can also be found on the cover of the fuse box or in the manual that comes with your vehicle.

If the fuse is blown, you’ll need to replace it with a new one with the same rating as the original. It’s important to note that using a fuse with a higher rating than recommended can cause severe damage to your vehicle’s electrical system, so it’s best to stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

To replace the blown fuse, use a pair of pliers or a puller to remove the old fuse from its socket. Then, please insert the new fuse into the socket and push it firmly until it clicks into place. Once the new fuse is securely in place, turn the ignition on and test the cruise control to see if it’s working correctly.

2. Faulty Brake Switch

Without the brake switch, the system couldn’t disengage when the brake pedal is pressed, which could result in a dangerous situation for the driver and passengers. If you’ve been experiencing problems with your cruise control system, the brake switch could be the culprit.

To locate the brake switch, start by looking near the brake pedal. In most cars, the brake switch is located at the top of the brake pedal arm, typically held with a clip or a bolt. Once you’ve found the brake switch, check it for signs of damage or wear. If the button looks damaged or it’s not functioning correctly, it’s time to replace it.

Replacing the brake switch can be challenging, but it’s doable with some essential tools and patience. To replace the switch, start by disconnecting the electrical connector that connects the switch to the wiring harness. Then, remove the old button by unscrewing it or removing the clip that holds it in place.

Next, install the new switch in the exact location as the old one, ensuring it’s securely in place. Finally, reconnect the electrical connector, and test the cruise control system to ensure it works correctly.

3. Malfunctioning Speed Sensor

When the speed sensor is not functioning correctly or malfunctioning, the cruise control system may not work properly, frustrating drivers. However, fixing a malfunctioning speed sensor is not as complicated as it may seem.

First, you need to locate the speed sensor, which is typically located near the transmission or wheel hub. Once you have found the speed sensor, you should check the wiring and connections to ensure the problem is not related to a faulty connection. If the wiring and connections are OK, you may need to replace the speed sensor.

Replacing the speed sensor requires some expertise, but it’s still doable. You’ll need to remove the old sensor by unscrewing and disconnecting it from its wiring. After removing the old sensor, install the new one and connect it to the wiring.

Suppose you’re not comfortable replacing the speed sensor yourself. In that case, it’s best to seek the help of a professional mechanic with the expertise and knowledge to fix the issue properly.

4. Broken Cruise Control Switch

The cruise control switch is a tiny button on either the steering wheel or the dashboard. Despite its small size, it has a significant impact on the functioning of the cruise control system. The switch allows drivers to activate and deactivate the system as needed, which is crucial to maintaining a constant speed.Without a properly functioning button, drivers won’t be able to engage or disengage the system as required, leading to frustration and potential safety hazards on the road.

The good news is that replacing a faulty or broken cruise control switch is a relatively simple process. In most vehicles, the controller can be easily located on the steering wheel or dashboard and removed without requiring specialized tools. However, ensuring that the replacement switch is compatible with your vehicle’s cruise control system is crucial. This is because different cars require different types and sizes of switches. Using the wrong one can malfunction the entire system.

In addition to compatibility issues, ensuring that the replacement switch is of high quality is also essential. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase replacement switches from reputable dealers specializing in auto parts and accessories.

5. Vacuum Leak

If you’re experiencing problems with your cruise control, it’s always a good idea to start by checking the vacuum system. One of the most common causes of cruise control failure is a leak in the vacuum lines. These lines can become worn or damaged over time, resulting in air leaks that can prevent the cruise control system from engaging.

To diagnose and fix such a leak, you’ll need to visually inspect the lines and look for any signs of damage or wear. This may involve crawling under your car or removing parts of the engine compartment to gain access to the vacuum lines. Once you’ve located the damaged cables, you can replace them with new ones to ensure the vacuum system functions correctly.

It’s also important to check the vacuum reservoir for cracks or leaks. The vacuum reservoir is a container that stores vacuum pressure and can develop cracks or leaks over time, causing the system to lose pressure. Suppose you notice any damage or wear on the reservoir. In that case, it’s essential to replace it to prevent further problems with your cruise control system.

6. Wiring Issues

When diagnosing cruise control problems, it’s essential not to overlook the possibility of wiring issues. While they may not be the most common cause of failure, damaged or disconnected wires can still be a significant culprit.

One reason why wiring issues can be challenging to fix is because they can be difficult to spot. The wiring that connects the various components of the cruise control system is often hidden from view, making it hard to identify any problems. However, with some patience and persistence, you can track down the source of the issue.

Sometimes, the wiring may become frayed or damaged due to wear and tear. In contrast, other times, it may become disconnected due to loose connections. In some cases, water damage or corrosion may also affect the wiring.

To diagnose wiring issues, you must thoroughly inspect the wiring and connections. This may involve removing some components of the cruise control system to gain better access. Once you have identified any damaged or disconnected wires, you must repair or replace them.

7. Throttle Actuator Failure

The throttle actuator plays a crucial role in regulating the amount of air entering the engine, affecting the vehicle’s speed. If the throttle actuator fails, it can lead to erratic acceleration, deceleration, or even complete loss of control.

To address this problem, you’ll need to locate the throttle actuator, usually found near the throttle body. Depending on the model of your vehicle, this might require some disassembly of the engine compartment or removal of other components. Once you can access the actuator, you must remove and inspect it for any visible signs of damage or wear.

If the actuator appears in good condition, the issue may be related to the wiring or electrical connections. It’s important to thoroughly inspect the wiring harness and all the links to the actuator, as any damaged or loose wires can cause problems.

In some cases, fixing this may require more than just replacing the actuator or fixing the wiring. You may need to diagnose and repair any underlying mechanical or electrical issues contributing to the problem. Suppose you suspect that your cruise control system has a throttle actuator failure. In that case, it’s essential to check and replace the actuator if necessary. However, this can be a challenging task requiring expertise, and you may need professional assistance.

Conclusion

Fixing issues with your cruise control can be straightforward, provided you know what to look for. As you would have learnt from the instructions outlined in this article, it is relatively easy to diagnose and fix common problems with your cruise control, such as blown fuses, malfunctioning speed sensors, broken cruise control switches,

and leaks in the vacuum compartment.

• Blown fuses are a common culprit for cruise control failure, and locating and replacing them is relatively easy.
• The brake switch and speed sensor can also cause issues with cruise control, and replacing them requires some expertise.
• A broken cruise control switch can be easily located and replaced, but it’s crucial to ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s system.
• Checking the vacuum system is another critical step in diagnosing cruise control issues, and damaged vacuum lines can be replaced with new ones.

Suppose you need more confidence about how to take care of the issue yourself. In that case, it is always a good idea to stop pressuring yourself and get the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic, who will know exactly what to do once they have diagnosed the problem. However, as long as you ensure that everything is followed in a proper sequence, the given article will significantly help you sort things out on your own!