Why Does My Cruise Control Keep Turning Off? (Explained in Simple Terms)

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Have you ever been driving down the highway, enjoying the peace and quiet of cruise control, only to have it suddenly turn off? It can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re in a hurry. But what causes cruise control to turn off? And how can you fix it?

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common reasons why cruise control might stop working, as well as some tips on how to troubleshoot the problem. We’ll also discuss some of the safety concerns associated with cruise control, and how to use it safely.

So if you’re ever wondering why your cruise control keeps turning off, read on for the answers!

| Reason | Symptoms | Solution |
|—|—|—|
| Defective Cruise Control Switch | Cruise control won’t engage or disengage, or it disengages unexpectedly | Replace the cruise control switch |
| Faulty Cruise Control Throttle Position Sensor | Cruise control won’t engage or disengage, or it disengages unexpectedly | Replace the cruise control throttle position sensor |
| Cruise Control Wiring Problem | Cruise control won’t engage or disengage, or it disengages unexpectedly | Repair or replace the cruise control wiring |

Causes of Cruise Control Turning Off

Your cruise control may turn off for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Malfunctioning cruise control system. The cruise control system is a complex network of sensors, actuators, and computers. If any of these components malfunction, it can cause the cruise control to turn off.
  • Vehicle speed sensor malfunction. The vehicle speed sensor is a critical component of the cruise control system. It sends a signal to the cruise control computer, which tells the vehicle how fast to go. If the vehicle speed sensor malfunctions, the cruise control will not be able to maintain a constant speed.
  • Brake pedal or clutch pedal actuated. The brake pedal and clutch pedal are both safety features that can override the cruise control. If you press either of these pedals, the cruise control will automatically turn off.
  • Steering wheel angle sensor malfunction. The steering wheel angle sensor tells the cruise control computer which direction the vehicle is turning. If the steering wheel angle sensor malfunctions, the cruise control will not be able to maintain a constant speed in a turn.

How to Fix Cruise Control Turning Off

If your cruise control keeps turning off, there are a few things you can check to try to fix the problem.

  • Check the cruise control system. The first thing you should do is check the cruise control system for any obvious problems. Look for loose wires, damaged connectors, or other signs of damage. If you find any problems, you should have them repaired by a qualified mechanic.
  • Check the vehicle speed sensor. The vehicle speed sensor is a small sensor that is located near the transmission. It sends a signal to the cruise control computer, which tells the vehicle how fast to go. To check the vehicle speed sensor, you will need a voltmeter. First, disconnect the vehicle speed sensor from the wiring harness. Then, turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position. With the voltmeter, check for voltage at the vehicle speed sensor connector. If there is no voltage, the vehicle speed sensor is faulty and will need to be replaced.
  • Check the brake pedal or clutch pedal. If you press the brake pedal or clutch pedal, the cruise control will automatically turn off. To check if this is the problem, try pressing the brake pedal or clutch pedal while the cruise control is engaged. If the cruise control turns off, the problem is likely with the brake pedal or clutch pedal switch. You will need to have the switch replaced by a qualified mechanic.
  • Check the steering wheel angle sensor. The steering wheel angle sensor tells the cruise control computer which direction the vehicle is turning. If the steering wheel angle sensor malfunctions, the cruise control will not be able to maintain a constant speed in a turn. To check the steering wheel angle sensor, you will need a scan tool. With the scan tool, you can check the steering wheel angle sensor for any errors. If there are any errors, the steering wheel angle sensor will need to be replaced.

If you have tried all of the above steps and your cruise control is still turning off, you may need to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis and repairs.

Why Does My Cruise Control Keep Turning Off?

Cruise control is a convenient feature that allows you to maintain a set speed without having to keep your foot on the gas pedal. However, there are a few reasons why your cruise control might keep turning off.

  • Faulty Cruise Control Switch

The most common reason for cruise control to turn off is a faulty cruise control switch. The cruise control switch is located on the steering wheel and is used to engage and disengage the cruise control system. If the switch is faulty, it may not be able to properly engage the cruise control system, which could cause it to turn off unexpectedly.

  • Dirty Cruise Control Sensors

The cruise control system uses two sensors to monitor your vehicle’s speed and throttle position. If these sensors become dirty, they may not be able to provide accurate information to the cruise control system, which could cause it to turn off unexpectedly.

  • Cruise Control Malfunction

In some cases, the cruise control system itself may malfunction. This could be due to a problem with the wiring, the computer, or the actuator. If the cruise control system is malfunctioning, it will need to be repaired or replaced.

How to Fix a Cruise Control That Keeps Turning Off

If your cruise control keeps turning off, you can try to fix the problem yourself or you can take your car to a mechanic.

To Fix the Problem Yourself:

1. Check the cruise control switch. Make sure that the switch is properly engaged and that there is no dirt or debris on the switch.
2. Clean the cruise control sensors. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off the sensors.
3. Reset the cruise control system. On some vehicles, you can reset the cruise control system by turning the ignition off and then back on.
4. Take your car to a mechanic. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, take your car to a mechanic. The mechanic can diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Tips for Preventing Cruise Control from Turning Off

To prevent your cruise control from turning off, you can follow these tips:

  • Keep your cruise control system well-maintained. Make sure that the cruise control switch, sensors, and actuator are all properly functioning.
  • Avoid driving over bumps or potholes. Bumps and potholes can cause the cruise control sensors to become dirty or damaged, which could lead to the cruise control system turning off.
  • Be careful when applying the brakes or clutch. Applying the brakes or clutch too quickly can cause the cruise control system to disengage.
  • Avoid turning the steering wheel sharply. Turning the steering wheel sharply can cause the cruise control system to disengage.

When to Take Your Car to a Mechanic

If you can’t fix the problem yourself, or if the problem persists, you should take your car to a mechanic. The mechanic can diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Cruise control is a convenient feature that can make long drives more relaxing. However, if your cruise control keeps turning off, it can be a nuisance. By following the tips in this article, you can help prevent your cruise control from turning off. And if the problem does occur, you can take your car to a mechanic to have it fixed.

Why Does My Cruise Control Keep Turning Off?

There are a few reasons why your cruise control might keep turning off. Here are some of the most common:

  • You’re not pressing the button hard enough. The cruise control button on most vehicles requires a firm press to engage. If you’re only tapping the button, it might not be registering and your cruise control will turn off.
  • You’re hitting a bump in the road. Cruise control systems can be sensitive to bumps in the road, which can cause them to disengage. If you’re driving over a lot of rough terrain, your cruise control might turn off more frequently.
  • You’re braking or accelerating too quickly. Cruise control systems also don’t like sudden changes in speed. If you brake or accelerate too quickly, your cruise control will disengage.
  • Your vehicle’s cruise control system is malfunctioning. In rare cases, the cruise control system itself can malfunction. If you’ve tried all of the above and your cruise control is still turning off, you might need to have it serviced.

Here are some tips to help prevent your cruise control from turning off:

  • Press the button firmly and hold it for a second or two.
  • Avoid driving over bumps in the road.
  • Be gradual when braking or accelerating.
  • Have your vehicle’s cruise control system serviced regularly.

If you’re still having trouble with your cruise control, you can always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.

In this article, we discussed the reasons why your cruise control might keep turning off. We covered a variety of potential causes, including:

  • A faulty cruise control system
  • A loose or damaged cruise control switch
  • A problem with the brake pedal switch
  • A problem with the throttle position sensor
  • A problem with the vehicle’s computer

We also provided tips on how to troubleshoot and fix these problems. If you’re having trouble with your cruise control, we recommend taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • Cruise control is a convenient feature, but it can be dangerous if it malfunctions.
  • If your cruise control keeps turning off, there are a number of potential causes.
  • You can troubleshoot and fix some cruise control problems yourself, but it’s best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic if you’re not sure what the problem is.

By following these tips, you can help keep your cruise control system working properly and avoid dangerous situations on the road.

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.