How to Install Cruise Control on Your Car: A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

How to Install Cruise Control

Cruise control is a great way to make long road trips more relaxing. It allows you to set a constant speed and then let the car take over, so you can focus on the scenery or your favorite music. Installing cruise control on your car is a relatively simple task, and it can be done in just a few hours.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of installing cruise control on your car. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions, along with photos and diagrams to help you along the way. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to install cruise control on your car like a pro.

So if you’re ready to take the stress out of long road trips, read on for our complete guide to installing cruise control!

How To Install Cruise Control?

| Step | Task | Tools |
|—|—|—|
| 1 | Remove the plastic trim covering the steering column. | Screwdriver |
| 2 | Locate the cruise control switch. | Phillips head screwdriver |
| 3 | Remove the switch from the steering column. | Needle nose pliers |
| 4 | Connect the new switch to the wiring harness. | Wire crimper |
| 5 | Install the new switch in the steering column. | Phillips head screwdriver |
| 6 | Replace the plastic trim covering the steering column. | Screwdriver |

How to Install Cruise Control?

Tools and Materials Needed

To install cruise control, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A Phillips head screwdriver
  • A Torx head screwdriver
  • A set of wrenches
  • A crimping tool
  • A soldering iron
  • A piece of heat-shrink tubing
  • A roll of electrical tape
  • A cruise control kit (specific to your vehicle)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the cruise control switch. The cruise control switch is usually located on the steering column or on the dashboard. It is a small button or lever with a symbol of a car with a set of wings.
2. Remove the cover for the cruise control switch. The cover is usually held in place by a few screws or clips. Remove the screws or clips and set the cover aside.
3. Locate the cruise control wires. The cruise control wires are usually located behind the steering column or under the dashboard. They are a set of three wires: a red wire, a black wire, and a green wire.
4. Connect the cruise control wires to the switch. The red wire connects to the positive battery terminal, the black wire connects to the negative battery terminal, and the green wire connects to the cruise control switch.
5. Test the cruise control. Turn on the ignition and press the cruise control button. The cruise control should engage and the car should maintain a constant speed.

Troubleshooting

If the cruise control does not work, there are a few things you can check:

  • Make sure that the cruise control is turned on.
  • Check the fuses for the cruise control.
  • Check the wiring for the cruise control.
  • If the problem persists, take your car to a qualified mechanic.

Installing cruise control is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. By following these steps, you can add this convenient feature to your vehicle and enjoy a more relaxing driving experience.

3. Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble installing your cruise control, there are a few things you can check.

  • Make sure you have the right parts. The first step is to make sure you have all of the necessary parts for the installation. This includes the cruise control unit itself, the wiring harness, and the brake switch. If you’re not sure what parts you need, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
  • Check the wiring. Once you have all of the necessary parts, the next step is to check the wiring. Make sure that the wiring harness is properly connected to the cruise control unit and the brake switch. If the wiring is not connected properly, it could cause problems with the installation.
  • Test the cruise control. Once you’ve checked the wiring, it’s time to test the cruise control. Start by turning the ignition on and pressing the cruise control button. The cruise control should light up and the display should show the current speed. If the cruise control doesn’t work, there could be a problem with the unit itself. You may need to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic to have the cruise control repaired or replaced.

4. Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips for installing cruise control:

  • Read the instructions carefully. Before you begin the installation, read the instructions carefully. This will help you avoid making mistakes.
  • Take your time. Installing cruise control can be a bit tricky, so it’s important to take your time and do it right. If you’re not comfortable doing the installation yourself, you can always take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
  • Be careful not to damage any wires. When you’re routing the wires, be careful not to damage them. If you damage the wires, it could cause problems with the cruise control.
  • Test the cruise control after you’re finished. Once you’re finished with the installation, test the cruise control to make sure it’s working properly. If the cruise control doesn’t work, you may need to troubleshoot the problem.

Installing cruise control can be a great way to make your driving experience more enjoyable. By following these tips, you can install cruise control on your own with ease.

Q: What is cruise control?
A: Cruise control is a feature on some vehicles that allows the driver to set a desired speed and then the vehicle will automatically maintain that speed without the driver having to keep their foot on the accelerator.

Q: How does cruise control work?
A: Cruise control works by using a sensor to monitor the vehicle’s speed. The sensor sends a signal to the cruise control module, which then sends a signal to the throttle to adjust the engine speed and maintain the desired speed.

Q: How do I install cruise control?
A: Installing cruise control can be a difficult task, and it is best to have it done by a qualified technician. However, if you are comfortable working on your own vehicle, you can follow these steps:

1. Locate the cruise control kit. The kit will typically include the cruise control switch, the cruise control module, the wiring harness, and the throttle cable.
2. Install the cruise control switch. The switch is typically located on the steering column. It will need to be wired to the cruise control module and the throttle cable.
3. Install the cruise control module. The module is typically located under the dashboard. It will need to be wired to the switch and the throttle cable.
4. Install the wiring harness. The wiring harness will connect the switch, the module, and the throttle cable.
5. Adjust the throttle cable. The throttle cable needs to be adjusted so that the cruise control module can properly control the engine speed.

Once the cruise control has been installed, it will need to be calibrated. This can be done by driving the vehicle at a constant speed and then pressing the cruise control button. The vehicle should then maintain the desired speed without any input from the driver.

Q: What are the benefits of cruise control?
A: Cruise control has a number of benefits, including:

  • It can help to reduce driver fatigue by taking the stress out of maintaining a constant speed.
  • It can help to improve fuel economy by preventing the driver from accelerating and decelerating excessively.
  • It can be a safety feature, as it can help to prevent the driver from unintentionally speeding up or slowing down.

Q: What are the risks of cruise control?
A: Cruise control can also have a few risks, including:

  • If the driver becomes distracted, they may not notice if the vehicle is approaching another vehicle or an obstacle.
  • If the driver does not pay attention to the road conditions, they may not be able to react quickly to changes in traffic.
  • Cruise control can make it more difficult to stop quickly in an emergency.

It is important to use cruise control responsibly and to be aware of the risks involved.

Q: Where can I get cruise control installed?
A: You can get cruise control installed at a number of different places, including:

  • Your local car dealership
  • An independent auto repair shop
  • An online retailer

It is important to choose a reputable installer who is familiar with the specific make and model of your vehicle.

Q: How much does it cost to install cruise control?
The cost of installing cruise control will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of cruise control system you choose. The average cost of installation is between $100 and $300.

Q: Is it worth it to install cruise control?
Whether or not it is worth it to install cruise control depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you drive long distances on a regular basis, cruise control can be a great way to reduce driver fatigue and improve fuel economy. However, if you do not drive long distances often, cruise control may not be worth the investment.

installing cruise control on your vehicle is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can have your cruise control up and running in no time. Just remember to take your time and be careful when working with electrical components. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy the convenience and safety of cruise control on your next road trip.

Here are a few key takeaways from this guide:

  • Cruise control is a valuable safety feature that can help you maintain a steady speed on long road trips.
  • Installing cruise control is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours.
  • Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools and materials.
  • Follow the steps in the guide carefully to avoid making mistakes.
  • Once you’ve installed cruise control, test it out to make sure it’s working properly.

With cruise control, you can relax and enjoy your next road trip knowing that you’re driving safely and efficiently.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.