How to activate cruise control?
To activate cruise control, bring the car to your chosen speed, press the cruise control on-switch to turn the system on, and then press SET to lock in that speed. For adaptive cruise control, enable ACC and select a following distance.
Cruise control helps reduce fatigue on long drives and is standard in many cars, but the exact controls vary by make and model. This guide explains how traditional cruise control works, how adaptive cruise control differs, and what you should know to use these features safely.
Traditional cruise control
Traditional cruise control maintains a fixed speed without actively adjusting for other vehicles. The steps below cover common control layouts, but always check your owner’s manual for your exact setup.
- Accelerate with the gas pedal to reach your desired speed.
- Turn on the cruise control system by pressing the ON or CRUISE button, or flipping the stalk to the ON position.
- Set the speed by pressing SET (or SET/COAST) once the vehicle is at your chosen speed.
- Adjust the set speed using the + or − controls, or by toggling the lever to increase or decrease speed.
- Cancel or deactivate the system by braking, pressing CANCEL or OFF, or turning the system off entirely. To resume the previously set speed, use RES/ACCEL or the appropriate resume control.
In short, traditional cruise control requires you to reach a speed, activate the system, and lock in that speed with a single command. You can adjust or cancel as traffic demands.
Adaptive cruise control
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) adds automatic distance management using radar or cameras. Controls and capabilities vary by brand and model, but the general workflow is similar across most recent vehicles.
- Reach your desired cruising speed, then turn on ACC by pressing the ACC or CRUISE button.
- Set your speed and choose a following distance using the distance control (often labeled Distance, Follow Distance, or with a bar/dots indicator).
- Keep hands on the wheel and maintain attention; ACC will accelerate or brake to maintain the set distance behind the vehicle ahead.
- Adjust speed as needed with the +/− controls, and cancel or resume using the same controls you use for traditional cruise control (brake, CANCEL, RES/SET).
Adaptive cruise control can reduce braking and acceleration in steady traffic, but you must stay attentive and be ready to take manual control when conditions change.
Safety considerations and best practices
Cruise control is a convenience feature, not a substitute for attentive driving. Here are practical tips to stay safe while using it:
- Use cruise control on appropriate roads – clear highways with light or moderate traffic, good visibility, and well-marked lanes.
- Avoid using it in rain, snow, ice, heavy traffic, or on winding roads where quick manual input may be needed.
- Keep both hands on the wheel and stay alert to obstacles, pedestrians, and changing road conditions.
- Know your vehicle’s limits: some systems require a minimum speed or have reduced functionality in certain weather or terrain.
Always consult your vehicle’s manual for exact control locations and feature terminology, as interfaces differ between manufacturers.
Vehicle-specific notes
Control placement and terminology can vary widely by brand and model year. Some cars use a steering-wheel stalk, others a dash button cluster, and newer models may employ touchscreen menus. If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual or contact the dealership for precise instructions.
Summary
Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, and adaptive cruise control adds automatic distance management from the vehicle ahead. Traditional CC requires you to set speed manually, while ACC manages speed and following distance automatically. Use these features as appropriate for road and weather conditions, and always stay ready to take control when conditions require it. With the right guidance and a quick manual check, cruise control can make long drives more comfortable and less tiring.
Do you set cruise control while driving?
Cruise control is designed to be used on A-roads and motorways that don't have frequent stops and turns to negotiate. At one time it was only found on high-end luxury cars, but now even the smallest city cars frequently have it fitted. It's activated through pressing buttons while you're driving.
Why is my cruise control not activating?
Intermittent cruise control activation often stems from faulty brake light switches or poor electrical connections. Inspect the brake pedal position switch and its wiring for wear or corrosion. Resetting the system by cycling the ignition can temporarily help, but replacing a malfunctioning switch is recommended.
How do you know if your car has cruise control?
To find out if your car has cruise control, check for buttons on your steering wheel or steering column, often marked with a speedometer icon or labeled "Cruise". For older or basic models, you can also check the owner's manual or use a VIN decoder. For adaptive cruise control, look for additional buttons or sensors on the steering wheel that control the distance to the car ahead, as mentioned by Reddit users and GMC.
How to tell if your car has cruise control
- Look for physical buttons: Check your steering wheel and steering column for a button or a stalk with a speedometer icon or labeled "Cruise".
- Consult the manual: Your owner's manual will have information on all standard and optional features, including cruise control.
- Use a VIN decoder: If you have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), you can enter it into an online decoder to get a detailed list of your car's features.
- Check your dashboard display: When you press the cruise control button, an indicator light on the dashboard should illuminate, confirming the system is on.
- For adaptive cruise control: Look for extra buttons on your steering wheel to adjust the following distance to the car in front. You may also see a radar icon on the dashboard.
Important considerations
- Standard vs. adaptive: Many modern cars have cruise control as a standard feature, while more advanced adaptive cruise control might be part of an optional driver-assistance package.
- Low-speed limitations: Some systems have a minimum speed to engage, often around 25 mph, though some off-road vehicles have special low-speed cruise control features.
- Overriding cruise control: Tapping the brake pedal will automatically disengage the cruise control.
- Adding cruise control: If your car doesn't have it, it's often possible to have an aftermarket cruise control system installed.
Does cruise control come on automatically?
Operation. The driver must manually bring the vehicle up to speed and use a button to set the cruise control to the current speed, except in the case of adaptive cruise control.
