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How to put an Acura in cruise control?

In most Acura models, cruise control is activated through the steering wheel controls, allowing you to maintain a steady speed and, in adaptive versions, a safe following distance. This guide explains how to use it safely and what to expect across different Acura trims.


Understanding Acura's Cruise Control Systems


Acura offers two main options: standard cruise control, which maintains a fixed speed, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which can adjust speed to keep a set distance from the car ahead. Some vehicles also include Low-Speed Follow or Stop-and-Go capabilities for traffic jams. Controls and availability vary by model year and trim, so check your owner’s manual for exact steps and limitations.


Standard Cruise Control vs Adaptive Cruise Control


Standard cruise control holds a constant speed without reacting to traffic. Adaptive Cruise Control uses radar sensors to monitor the gap to vehicles ahead and can brake or accelerate to maintain the chosen distance. In certain models, additional features like Stop-and-Go or Traffic Jam Assist may be available, depending on year and trim.


Step-by-step Guide to Engage Cruise Control


The following steps cover the typical process for most Acura models with cruise control. Exact button labels and layouts can vary by year and trim, so adapt as needed and stay attentive to the road.



  1. Accelerate to your desired speed in the current lane and ensure you have a safe following distance from other vehicles.

  2. Press the CRUISE button on the steering wheel to activate the system; an indicator light will appear on the instrument cluster.

  3. Press the RES/SET (or SET) switch to lock in your current speed; in some models you press SET and then adjust using the +/- controls.

  4. Use the +/- controls (or resume/accelerate buttons) to fine-tune your set speed while Cruise is engaged.

  5. For Adaptive Cruise Control, press the Distance button to choose a following distance (short, medium, or long). The system will maintain that gap from the vehicle ahead.

  6. To cancel, either brake gently, press the CANCEL button, or press the CRUISE button again to turn the system off. Some models store the set speed for easy resumption.

  7. To resume the previously set speed, press RES (or use the resume function specified for your model).


Note: Some Acura models with Stop-and-Go ACC can bring the car to a complete stop and automatically resume when traffic advances. This feature varies by model year and trim. Always be prepared to take manual control if traffic or weather demands it.


Safety Tips and Limitations


Cruise control is a convenience feature, not a substitute for attentive driving. Always keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, and be ready to intervene if conditions change.



  • Use cruise control only on highways or open roads with clear lanes and minimal cross-traffic. Avoid it in rain, snow, ice, or heavy rain where traction may be reduced.

  • Maintain a safe following distance so you can stop safely if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly.

  • Be aware that curves, road work, or steep grades may require you to disengage cruise control.

  • Adaptive Cruise Control may respond differently in complex traffic scenarios—override with the brake or accelerator as needed.


Always refer to your specific Acura model’s manual for exact operation, limitations, and any Stop-and-Go capabilities, which can vary by software version and trim level.


Model-Specific Notes


TLX


Recent TLX models commonly include Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and, on some trims, Traffic Jam Assist. Steering-wheel controls manage speed, distance, and resume functions, with behavior varying by year and option package.


RDX


RDX offers Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go on newer trims, along with standard speed controls and a Distance setting on the steering wheel. Ensure radar sensors stay clean for optimal operation.


MDX


MDX’s ACC system functions similarly, with a dedicated Distance control and RES/SET for speed management. In heavier traffic, be prepared to intervene as needed.


Summary


Engaging cruise control on an Acura is a straightforward process: activate the system, set your speed, and adjust the following distance if equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control. Always stay attentive and ready to take control, and consult your owner’s manual for model-specific nuances and capabilities, especially regarding stop-and-go functions.

How do I turn on cruise control in an Acura?


And following interval from vehicles detected. Ahead when the detected vehicle ahead changes speed ACC adjusts your vehicle speed accordingly to maintain separation acc works at speeds above 40 kmh.



How to put acura mdx in cruise control?


Process. And it's all done using the switches along the right hand side of the steering wheel here so you've got a series of buttons. The one along the top right side turns the system on or off.



How to set cruise control on 2015 Acura TLX?


And up to four distance bars that indicate the relative. Following interval if no vehicle has been detected.



How do I activate the 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. 


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.