Repairing Guides

how much does it cost to repair cruise control

by Gracie Mitchell Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

The cost of fixing an issue with your vehicle's cruise control system will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the severity of the problem—costs range from $125 to $400 to fix cruise control-related issues.

Full Answer

How much does it cost to fix cruise control?

How much does it cost to fix cruise control? Cruise Control Switch Replacement Cost – RepairPal Estimate. Labor costs are estimated between $54 and $68 while parts are priced at $110. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

How much does it cost to install a cruise control?

Typically, installing a cruise control system on your vehicle will cost anywhere between $200-$350. It’s pretty easy to install it yourself, but you may choose to have a professional install it instead. If you opt for this method, it’ll add somewhere around $100-$250 to the total cost.

Is cruise control worth it?

On the whole, yes, adaptive cruise control is safe when used properly. Engineers and researchers are continually improving the functionality of adaptive cruise control and other active safety...

How do I replace cruise control?

the cruise control switch comes out of the steering wheel. you can use a small flat head screw driver to unwedge it from is hole in the steering wheel. there will be a wire attached to the back, lift the clip holding it the wire to the switch. installation is the reverse.

image

What causes cruise control to stop working?

A vehicle's cruise control may stop working if the vacuum actuator has stopped working or if there is damage to the vacuum hoses. The system may also fail if the cable linking the actuator to the throttle is broken.

How do I fix the cruise control on my car?

0:192:25CRUISE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK. HOW TO FIX - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis happens a lot and some vehicles will be different but the procedure is almost the same for allMoreThis happens a lot and some vehicles will be different but the procedure is almost the same for all them first thing I still check is a fuse. Check your manual. Okay.

What are the signs of a failing cruise control?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Cruise Control Vacuum ReservoirSpeed surges while cruise control is engaged.Cruise control will not maintain speed.Engine performance issues.

Does cruise control damage transmission?

Cruise control, if used properly, is not bad for your car in the least. It can even reduce wear and tear on the engine/transmission and improve fuel efficiency by reducing instances of rapid acceleration. However, it can be harmful if used with a manual transmission or in certain adverse conditions.

Can cruise control get stuck?

If the cruise control cable gets stuck or binds it may cause the throttle to stick open, which will cause the accelerator pedal to get stuck or require considerable effort to apply. This may cause the vehicle to jerk during acceleration or when the cruise control is activated.

Is there a fuse that controls cruise control?

You can easily find out where your cruise control fuse is and what it's called in your owner's manual. But most often, you'll find the cruise control fuse box under the dashboard on the driver's side.

How do I reset my cruise control?

For a quick reset, accelerate with the accelerator pedal to the desired speed, then press and release the "SET/COAST" button. Press and hold the "SET/COAST" button to decelerate. Release the button when you reach the desired speed; the cruise control system will be set to that speed.

Does check engine light affect cruise control?

Check engine light Vehicles equipped with ETCS will automatically disable cruise control if there's a problem with the engine or transmission, so if a check engine light lights up after starting the engine, get the vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible.

How do you test a cruise control switch?

To test this, simply start your engine and press the "on" button on your cruise control switch. If the cruise control light illuminates on your dash or instrument cluster, the switch should be working fine.

Does cruise control use more gas?

Generally speaking, yes. Cruise control can help you become more fuel-efficient and can help you save an average of 7-14% on gas thanks to its ability to maintain a continuous speed. In comparison, the constant change in acceleration and deceleration of the driver placing their foot over the pedals can eat more gas.

Does cruise control use engine brakes?

Modern, multispeed (eight, 10 or more) transmission cars even use engine braking to maintain the cruise control.

Is it OK to use cruise control downhill?

The danger with relying on cruise control when going downhill or approaching curves is that you could lose control entirely, manufacturers say. "Do not use cruise control in heavy traffic, on winding roads or when the road surface is slippery," states the 2015 Ford Expedition owner's manual.

Why do we need cruise control?

Cruise control can be very convenient when on a long drive or when on the highway. By setting a speed, you can relax your foot and let the vehicle maintain speed. More modern cruise control systems even allow you to maintain speed and a certain distance behind the vehicle in front of you.

What does it mean when cruise control fails?

A sudden failure by the cruise control may mean your vehicle is rapidly decelerating. Even when cruise control is on, it is important to remain a vigilant driver.

How does a vacuum actuator work?

In this setup, a vacuum actuator is physically connected to the throttle by a cable or chain. The cable adjusts to increase or decrease throttle position based upon the actions of the actuator. A mechanic will let you know what kind of setup you have on your vehicle.

What causes a cruise control to not work?

Common reasons for this to happen: 1 Bad Fuse: Like many electronically controlled systems in your car, the cruise control has a corresponding fuse which will blow to protect the system if it senses a short circuit. When the fuse of for the cruise control blows, the cruise control will stop working altogether. 2 Failing Brake Pedal Switch: The brake pedal switch turns on the vehicles brake lights when it senses that the brake pedal has been pressed. Because cruise control systems have been designed to disengage when the brake pedal is pressed, the cruise control is wired to the brake pedal switch. If the brake pedal switch fails, the car may think the brakes are engaged and not allow the cruise control system to turn on. 3 Failing Speed Sensor: A speed sensor has many purposes including indicating the speed of the vehicle, regulating flow of fuel and ignition timing, and operating the cruise control. If the speed sensor fails the cruise control may stop working. You may also notice that the speedometer has stopped working and the engine has more difficulty when idling. 4 Damaged Vacuum Actuator/Hoses/Cable: On older vehicles, cruise control speed is maintained using a vacuum actuator and a cable connected to the throttle. A vehicle’s cruise control may stop working if the vacuum actuator has stopped working or if there is damage to the vacuum hoses. The system may also fail if the cable linking the actuator to the throttle is broken.

Why does my cruise control stop working?

A vehicle’s cruise control may stop working if the vacuum actuator has stopped working or if there is damage to the vacuum hoses. The system may also fail if the cable linking the actuator to the throttle is broken.

Is it dangerous to drive without cruise control?

While driving without cruise control may be an inconvenience, a sudden failure of the cruise control system could be potentially dangerous for a driver who is not vigilant. If you notice that your vehicle’s cruise control has stopped working you should have a mechanic check it to determine the nature of the problem.

What happens when cruise control is turned off?

When cruise control is turned off, the control module deactivates cruise control, and manual acceleration and speed control is is returned to the driver.

How does a cruise control switch work?

How does the Cruise Control Switch work? Pressing the buttons on the cruise control switch adjusts the vehicle's speed by increasing or decreasing engine speed until the vehicle speed sensor recognizes the intended speed has been met. In some vehicles, the brakes will be applied for slowing operations as well.

Can you reinstall a switch after it is exposed?

Once the switch is exposed, any remaining fasteners and electrical connectors can be removed. The new switch can be installed right after the electrical connectors are inspected for damage or debris. Finally, the trim panels can be reinstalled, if they were removed at all.

Does cruise control come on automatically?

This means that the cruise control may come on, but that it will not increase in speed automatically, or the cancel button does not work leading the driver to cancel cruise control with the foot brake. In some vehicles, the cruise control light may illuminate, or a warning message may be displayed due to lack of functionality.

Can a cruise control switch cause windshield wipers to fail?

Keep in mind, however, that when the cruise control switch is integrated into a multifunction switch with the windshield wipers, turns signals, or other needed safety items, this switch may cause those items to fail as well.

How much does Cruise Control Switch Replacement cost?

It depends on the type of car you drive and the auto repair shop you go to. Our mechanics are mobile, which means they don't have the overhead that repair shops have. They provide you convenience by coming to your home or office.

What is the Cruise Control Switch all about?

As you drive down the interstate, maintaining a set speed contributes to safe motoring by reducing the need to constantly monitor the speedometer and reduces fuel consumption slightly by minimizing the throttle applications to recover speed. An added benefit is reduced driver fatigue when traveling long distances.

Keep in mind

Cruise control can be electronically-controlled, vacuum-controlled, or both.

How it's done

The cruise control switch is verified that it needs to be replaced. The battery is disconnected and the air bag is removed.

Our recommendation

Cruise control has many aspects and components that work together, including electrical switches, engine vacuum switches, hoses, and servos. If you experience a problem with your cruise control operation, do not use it until one of our expert technicians has inspected and repaired the faulty component.

How important is this service?

Cruise control is a convenience feature on your vehicle and while it contributes to a safe driving experience, it does not make your vehicle unsafe if not operating properly. However, you should not use the cruise control until it is repaired. It can be repaired at your discretion.

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

Causes of Cruise Control Stopped Working

All electrical systems in the vehicle are controlled by fuses. Your cruise control system is attached to a fuse that can blow if there is a short circuit or fault. Without a good fuse, the cruise control system can’t work at all.

What is Cruise Control?

Cruise control was first introduced for automobiles in the 1950s. However, it took many years before it became a staple in the modern vehicle. Cruise control is a feature that is used when you are traveling at a consistent speed.

Cruise Control Repair Cost

The cost to repair your cruise control system depends on what caused it to fail. If you need to replace a cruise control or brake switch, you might spend between $125 and $350, including parts and labor. However, the cost to change a fuse is only a few dollars and you can perform the replacement yourself in just a matter of seconds.

What is a Cruise Control Actuator?

Cruise control is a common feature on a car, truck, or SUV that maintains a consistent speed on the road without the driver having to hold the accelerator pedal down.

How do Cruise Control Actuators work?

The cruise control actuator allows the throttle on the engine to be controlled by either the accelerator pedal (gas pedal) or the actuator. When the cruise control system is turned off, the accelerator pedal opens and closes the throttle.

What are the symptoms of a bad Cruise Control Actuator?

If the cruise control refuses to turn on at all, the actuator could be at fault. Likewise, if the cruise control stays on but does not maintain a consistent speed, the problem could be a bad actuator. In extreme cases, a malfunctioning actuator could cause the throttle to stick and prevent the vehicle from slowing down.

Can I drive with a bad Cruise Control Actuator?

In most cases, a bad cruise control actuator is an inconvenience. However, if the cruise control refuses to disengage when the driver steps on the brake pedal, or when the system is switched off, the engine will not be able to power down. This could lead to a hazardous driving condition.

How often do Cruise Control Actuators need replacement?

Most cruise control actuators will last the lifetime of the vehicle. It is uncommon for the actuator itself to go bad. And on some newer vehicles, the throttle control motor attached to the throttle is controlled entirely by a computer control unit. In any case, they are not a maintenance item and do not have a scheduled replacement interval.

How are Cruise Control Actuator issues diagnosed?

When diagnosing a malfunctioning cruise control actuator, a technician will look to rule out common faults in the system, including a blown fuse, a misadjusted or bad brake pedal switch, a faulty cruise control switch assembly, or a diagnostic trouble code from the computer.

How are Cruise Control Actuators replaced?

Replacement of a cruise control actuator depends on the age of the vehicle and type of actuator used. In general, a technician will disconnect the cables that lead to the throttle and the accelerator pedal from the actuator, unplug the unit from the wiring harness, and unbolt the assembly from its mount.

How Much Will It Cost to Install Aftermarket Cruise Control?

Depending on your specific vehicle and the aftermarket kit you purchase, your cruise control installation can cost anywhere from $200-$600 total.

What is Cruise Control?

A cruise control system allows you to set your vehicle at a specific speed with the touch of a button. Once you get up to your desired speed, you press the switch or handle to lock it in.

How Do You Install a Cruise Control System?

If you choose to install your cruise control system yourself, you’ll need to follow the correct steps to ensure it’s done properly. Here is everything you need to do while installing cruise control on your vehicle.

Can You Install Cruise Control on a Manual Transmission?

If you have a manual transmission vehicle, you’ll be happy to hear that it’s still possible to install cruise control. However, it will be less flexible and typically requires extra sensors, such as a clutch disengagement switch.

Can Cruise Control be Installed on Any Car?

While most cars do accept cruise control systems, there are a few that don’t accept them. Do your research on your particular make and model to ensure it’s possible to install cruise control.

The Bottom Line

Adding cruise control to your vehicle is usually pretty simple to do yourself. Most DIY kits cost between $200-$350. If you want a mechanic to install your system instead, expect to pay around $90-$250 extra.

image
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9