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Cruise Control Not Working

Cruise control that will not engage or switches off usually has a brake or clutch switch fault, a speed signal problem, or it is disabled because of another fault.

Normal risk

Not a safety problem by itself, but other warnings that come with it should be checked.

Short answer · Why won’t my cruise control work?

Cruise control switches itself off when any condition is not met: a brake light switch that sends a wrong signal, a faulty clutch switch, missing speed data or an active engine or ABS fault. Check the brake lights first and look for other warning lights.

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Safe checks you can do

  1. Check the brake lightsA faulty brake switch disables cruise control.
  2. Look for other warningsEngine, ABS or stability faults often switch it off.
  3. Read the codesBrake switch and speed sensor codes are common.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Are other lights on?Cruise control is disabled with many faults.
  2. Do the brake lights work?Brake switch.
  3. Does it work sometimes?Intermittent switch or wiring.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Brake light switchThe most common cause.
  2. Clutch switchManual cars.
  3. Speed signalWheel speed or vehicle speed sensor.
  4. Steering wheel switch or wiringClock spring wear.
  5. Another active faultEngine or ABS.

Questions about Cruise Control Not Working

Does adaptive cruise need a clean radar?

Yes, dirt or ice on the sensor can disable it.

Is it safe to drive?

Yes, but find out why other warnings are on.