Ensuring that all vehicle parts are in good operating order to drive safely is critical. Among the parts of a car that must function without a hitch is the cruise control system (CCS). Even though it’s not a big deal most of the time, addressing its issue is essential if you want to utilize this system. If the CCS malfunctions, the vehicle’s acceleration can be affected. To fix the problems, customers need to know why cruise control ceased functioning.
What Is Cruise Control?
These days, most modern cars come equipped with this system. With this technique, a driver won’t have to repeatedly press down on the accelerator to keep the automobile at a consistent pace.
The layout of cruise controls went through several variations until they were fully operated electronically. Despite having a mechanical mechanism in the early phases of CCS, subsequent levels relied on vacuum and electro-mechanical processes to function. The most recent iteration of CS technology, adaptive CCS, lets drivers keep a reasonable gap between their vehicles and those directly ahead.
How Do I Know If My Cruise Control Is Not Working?
Over the years, these systems have gotten progressively more intricate. This makes it more difficult to determine the cause of a malfunctioning cruise control system, particularly in more recent models.
What Happens If My Cruise Control Stops Working?
Even though it makes long trips more bearable, it poses a severe threat if it malfunctions. For instance, a defective cruise control system could not be cancelable, leading to disastrous outcomes. Therefore, you should not use this system if it is intermittent or non-functional. Seek assistance from a reliable repair to resolve the issue.
Another option is to look into the problem and see if you can solve it independently. But taking it to a garage is the safest bet.
How Do Cruise Control Systems Work?
Before we start, it’s essential to know how it works.
- To begin, find the “on” button for the system, which is often situated next to the wheel, and press it. This will activate the system, and also, Cruise Control saved gas. But this won’t turn the machine on by itself.
- After you’ve programmed a cruising speed, the CCM monitors the current speed and takes control of the throttle body to keep the vehicle at that pace.
- In response to changes in the vehicle’s speed, such as those caused by inclines, the CCM modifies the opening of the throttle body.
- Keeping the engine speed modulated allows you to keep the ideal cruising pace. The ‘cancel’ or ‘off’ buttons allow you to change this speed or disable cruise control. When the driver presses the brakes, the system is also disabled.
Why Is My Cruise Control Not Working?
Based on the system’s architecture, there are many possible causes for it to malfunction. Look at these components to see which is causing the problem.
Brake Light Switch
The brake and the system are interdependent. Certain cars, like the Honda Accord Cruise Control not working until the brake light switch is detected.
Brake Lights
When the brake light is turned on, many cars’ control system stops functioning. Converting to LED brake lights or using comparable illumination might trick the CCS into thinking the brake light is on, rendering it inoperable.
Relays and Fuses
Fuses and relays protect the cruise control actuator circuit. Therefore, it will cease functioning if the fuse or relay is blown or malfunctions.
Wiring
The button is often located on the wheel. If the spiral cable is broken, the car’s cruise system might be unable to connect to the computer.
Control Device
Due to worn-out internal connections, the system switch cannot communicate with the CCS. This can cause malfunction or become unresponsive to the accelerator.
Car Engine Light
Modern vehicles are equipped with electronic stability control systems. It also allows disabling it if an engine or gearbox malfunctions.
Vacuum Leak
In earlier versions, the vacuum actuators controlled the throttle body while the system was in action. The apparatus will not function if the hose or tube develops a hole or leak. This problem also occurs when the Hoover leaks.
Vehicle Speed Sensor
Automobiles are equipped with many VSS or vehicle speed sensors. The CCS utilizes VSS feed from the ECM, gearbox, or instrument cluster. When the signal goes out, the CCS can’t tell how fast the car is going, so it turns off the feature.
Electrical Problems
The components of a cruise control system are electrical or electronic. The system will become inoperable if there is an issue with the source voltage, wire harnesses, or connections or if any of these become loose.
FAQs
Is there a reset for cruise control?
Is the Ford F150 cruise control not working? Your system can be broken if you see that your speed changes after you’ve set it in a Ford or any other vehicle. Resetting the system could help you figure out whether there’s an issue. To accomplish this, locate and deactivate your vehicle’s cruise system. The next step is to restart the system, enter a speed, and then use it again.
What are the symptoms of a bad cruise control module?
- The system just stopped working.
- There is no way to toggle the switch’s status.
- A Blown Fuse.
- A Broken Brake Pedal Sensor.
Does Cruise Control Save Gas?
You may save an average of 7-14% on petrol by using cruise control, which can help you become more fuel efficient.
Conclusion
If the cruise control is malfunctioning, using the “cancel” button will have no effect. Due to the potential danger, users must promptly repair the malfunctioning CCS upon identifying its source. You should avoid using the system until then. When the system stops responding, it’s best to take the vehicle in for an inspection by a mechanic who can diagnose the issue and provide a solution.
