How do you reset your cruise control?
To reset your cruise control, disengage the system using the brake or the Cancel button and then re-engage at your chosen speed with the RES/SET control. In most vehicles, you can also turn the system off and on to clear its memory, or use Resume to return to the last set speed.
The steps vary slightly between traditional cruise control and adaptive cruise control (ACC). This guide outlines the common approach, notes the key differences, and offers safety reminders to keep in mind while using cruise control on different road conditions.
Understanding standard versus adaptive cruise control
Standard cruise control maintains a constant speed once it is set. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) adds automatic speed adjustments to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Resetting ACC involves re-selecting a target speed and re-establishing the desired gap after disengagement.
Standard cruise control basics
In traditional systems, you typically disengage by pressing Cancel or tapping the brake, then resume or set a new speed using RES/SET controls when you want to re-engage.
Adaptive cruise control nuances
With ACC, braking or Cancelation usually clears both speed and distance settings. When you resume, the system attempts to return to the previously stored speed while maintaining a safe following distance; you may also need to adjust the following gap settings if your vehicle supports them.
Step-by-step reset guide
The following steps apply to most passenger cars with cruise control or ACC. Use the sequence that matches your vehicle’s controls, since labels and layouts vary by manufacturer.
- Slow or stop the vehicle and disengage cruise control by pressing Cancel or tapping the brake pedal.
- Optional: turn the cruise control system off using the On/Off switch if you want to clear its memory entirely.
- Re-engage cruise control by turning it on and then setting a speed with SET/COAST or using RES/RESUME to return to the previous speed.
- If you are using ACC, ensure the following distance setting is appropriate and use RES to resume the saved speed after the road is clear.
Concluding: After performing these steps, your cruise control will be re-engaged at the intended speed, with safety features ready to monitor speed and distance as needed.
Safety considerations when resetting cruise control
Cruise control should be used in calm, clear conditions with light traffic. Do not rely on it in heavy traffic, rain, snow, or on winding roads. Always keep your hands on the wheel and be prepared to take control if traffic or road conditions change.
Brake and disengagement cautions
Braking or pressing Cancel will disengage cruise control immediately. If you frequently use the brakes, your vehicle may reduce engine torque to help bring the car to a safe speed. Re-engage only when it is safe to do so.
Summary
Resetting your cruise control typically involves disengaging the system (brake or Cancel), optionally turning it off, and then re-engaging at a desired speed using RES/SET or Resume. Adaptive cruise control adds the need to re-establish following distance and speed after disengagement. Always follow vehicle-specific instructions in your owner’s manual, and exercise caution in changing driving conditions.
