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How do I turn on cruise control on a Ford Expedition?

In most Ford Expeditions, cruise control is activated via steering-wheel controls labeled CRUISE or ON. Once enabled, you can set a steady speed and adjust it with the steering-wheel controls. If your model supports adaptive cruise control, you can also manage following distance. Button labels and exact steps can vary by year, so consult your owner's manual if anything looks different.


Basic cruise control operation


Use these steps to engage standard cruise control that maintains a fixed speed. If your Expedition has adaptive cruise control, see the next section for distance settings.



  1. Drive at the speed you want to maintain and keep at least partial attention on the road.

  2. Press the steering-wheel control labeled CRUISE or ON to turn the system on. An indicator light should illuminate on the instrument cluster.

  3. Accelerate to your desired speed using the accelerator pedal.

  4. Press SET (or SET +, depending on the model) to engage cruise at the current speed.

  5. To adjust speed while cruise is active, use the + and − controls on the steering wheel to increase or decrease your set speed.

  6. Disengage by tapping the brake pedal, pressing CANCEL, or pressing OFF to turn the system off. To return to the previous set speed, press RESUME.


These steps summarize how to engage and manage a basic cruise control setup on most Expeditions. If the system doesn’t respond, ensure you’re above the minimum speed required for cruise control and that the controls aren’t damaged or disabled by a fault.


Adaptive cruise control and distance management


If your Expedition is equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC), you can set not only speed but also the following distance from the vehicle ahead. This section explains how to configure those settings.



  • Enable ACC by turning on the cruise control system as described above; the ACC indicator and distance controls become active.

  • Use the distance button or lever (often labeled with car icons and distance markings) to select a following distance, such as 1, 2, or more car lengths, depending on your model.

  • Set your cruising speed using the same SET button as with standard cruise; the system will adjust speed to maintain both your set speed and the chosen following distance.

  • If traffic slows or stops, ACC will decelerate and may bring the vehicle to a stop in certain configurations; you may need to apply throttle to resume, or press RESUME when the vehicle resumes moving.


These steps outline how to use adaptive cruise control and distance management on Ford Expeditions equipped with ACC. Always monitor the system and be ready to take control in heavy traffic or adverse conditions.


Tips and safety notes


- Do not rely on cruise control in rain, snow, ice, or heavy traffic. - Keep both hands on the wheel and stay attentive. - If the vehicle does not resume after a stop, re-engage ACC or resume manually. - Refer to the owner's manual for model-specific controls and limitations.


What to do if cruise control isn’t engaging


If the system won’t turn on or engage, check common issues such as a blown fuse, a fault in the steering-wheel controls, or sensor obstructions. In some cases, a fault code may illuminate the malfunction indicator light. If problems persist, have a dealer or qualified technician diagnose the system.


Summary


To turn on cruise control in a Ford Expedition, activate the steering-wheel cruise control switch, accelerate to your desired speed, and press SET to engage. Adjust speed with the +/- controls, and disengage with the brake or CANCEL as needed. If equipped with adaptive cruise control, use the distance setting to manage following gaps. Always practice safe driving and consult your owner's manual for model-specific instructions.

What is the 2X button on a Ford remote?


The "2x" button on a Ford remote is the remote start button, which is typically a circular arrow symbol with "2x" inside it. To use it, you first press the Lock button and then quickly press the "2x" remote start button twice to start your vehicle's engine.
 
This video shows how to use the remote start feature on a 2024 Ford Edge: 42sMac Haik Automotive GroupYouTube · Nov 4, 2024
How to use the remote start feature

  1. Press the Lock button: to lock the doors. 
  2. Press the "2x" remote start button twice: in quick succession. 
  3. Your vehicle's exterior lights will flash twice, and the engine will start. 

How to turn the engine off with the remote
  • To turn the engine off, simply press the "2x" remote start button once. 

This video demonstrates how to turn off the remote start: 57sPhatphatyoYouTube · Jul 28, 2017
Other key fob features
  • The "2x" button can also be used for other functions, depending on the vehicle. For example, on some models, a double-press of the unlock button can be used to open the liftgate. 
  • Some key fobs may include a green light that indicates a successful remote start, while a red light may indicate failure. 
  • If the remote start fails, a failure notification will be shown on the vehicle's information display. 

This video explains the functions of the buttons on a Ford key fob: 58sSouth Bay FordYouTube · Oct 13, 2022



How do I turn on cruise control on my Ford Expedition?


To set cruise control on a Ford Expedition, accelerate to your desired speed, press the "Set" button on the steering wheel, and then take your foot off the accelerator. For Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), you may need to turn the feature on through the settings menu on the infotainment screen before driving, according to this YouTube video and this YouTube video.
 
For standard cruise control
This video demonstrates how to set standard cruise control on a Ford vehicle: 59sCars With SteveYouTube · Nov 21, 2022

  1. Drive to your desired speed: and use the accelerator pedal to reach a steady pace. 
  2. Press the cruise control "ON" button, typically located on the left side of the steering wheel. 
  3. Press the "SET" button: on the steering wheel to lock in that speed. 
  4. Remove your foot from the accelerator. The set speed will appear on the information display. 
  5. To cancel, press the brake pedal or the "CANCEL" or "OFF" button on the steering wheel. 

For adaptive cruise control (ACC)
This video shows how to set adaptive cruise control on a Ford vehicle: 48sDigital Glove BoxYouTube · Jan 2, 2025
  1. Activate the system: On the infotainment screen, navigate to Settings > Driver Assistance > Cruise Control to ensure Adaptive Cruise Control is enabled. 
  2. Drive and set speed: Accelerate to your desired speed. Press the "Set" button on the steering wheel to engage. 
  3. Adjust following distance (if needed) using the separate buttons on the steering wheel that show a vehicle with lines underneath. 
  4. Take your foot off the accelerator once the speed is set. The vehicle will automatically adjust its speed to maintain a set distance from the car ahead. 
  5. To cancel, simply tap the brake pedal or the "CANCEL" button. 



How do I activate my cruise control?


To turn on cruise control, first accelerate to your desired speed, then press the "On/Off" button to activate the system, and finally press "Set" to lock in the speed. You should see an indicator light on your dashboard confirming the system is active.
 
This video explains how to use cruise control in a car: 57sAdvance Driving SchoolYouTube · May 8, 2019
Step 1: Turn on the system 

  • Locate the "On/Off" button, which is usually on the steering wheel or a stalk behind it. 
  • Press the "On/Off" button to enable the system. A "Cruise Main" message or an indicator light will appear on the dashboard, but the system is not yet active at a specific speed. 

Step 2: Set your speed 
  • Drive at the speed you want to maintain. 
  • Press the "Set" button. On some cars, this is a physical button, while on others, it's a stalk you push down. 
  • The system is now active, and you can take your foot off the accelerator. 

Step 3: Adjust and manage your speed 
  • Increase speed: Press and hold the "Resume" or "+" button to accelerate, or simply press the gas pedal until you reach the new speed and press "Set" again. 
  • Decrease speed: Press and hold the "Cancel" or "-" button to slow down. 
  • Cancel cruise control: Press the brake pedal or the dedicated "Cancel" button to temporarily disengage cruise control. 
  • Resume speed: To return to the previously set speed, press the "Resume" or "RES" button. 



What does the cruise control button look like on a Ford Explorer?


Here. So it's got it looks like your speedometer. And your car when you push that that will turn on cruise. Control. Once it's on you can set the speed. And with the button on the left.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.