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How to turn on cruise control on acura?

In most Acura models, cruise control is activated using the controls on the steering wheel. A typical sequence is to turn the system on, set your current speed, and then use resume or adjust buttons as needed. Some older or different trims may use a stalk or alternate labels, so if you don’t see the familiar buttons, consult the owner's manual for your exact year and model.


What you need to know about Acura cruise control


CruiSe control is designed to help maintain a steady speed on highways. The controls are usually located on the right side of the steering wheel and consist of an on/off or MAIN button, a SET/RES pair, and a +/- speed adjust rocker. Modern Acura systems typically cancel with braking or by pressing a CANCEL button and resume with RES, but exact layout can vary by model year and trim.


Standard steps to engage cruise control on most Acura models


Follow these steps to turn on and use cruise control on most recent Acura vehicles. The exact button layout can vary by model/year.



  1. Drive at a steady, desired speed on a safe highway or similar road.

  2. Locate the cruise control controls on the right side of the steering wheel. Look for a button labeled MAIN or ON/OFF, a SET or SET/RES button, and a +/- speed adjust rocker.

  3. Press MAIN (or ON) to activate the cruise control system. A dashboard indicator light should illuminate to confirm it’s ready.

  4. Reach your desired speed, then press SET (or SET/–) to lock that speed in.

  5. While active, use the +/- rocker or RES to adjust your speed up or down as needed. Some models combine RES with the + function.

  6. To cancel cruise control, press CANCEL or lightly brake. The system will disengage but retain your last set speed for quick resume.

  7. To resume the previous set speed, press RES (or RES/+) when cruise control has been canceled or paused.

  8. To turn off the system completely, press MAIN again or use the OFF label if available.


When you’re finished using cruise control, or if traffic or road conditions change, don’t hesitate to disengage and resume manual control. Always keep both hands on the wheel and stay attentive to road conditions.


Model-specific variations


Some Acura models or trim levels place cruise control controls differently or use slightly different labels. Here are common variations you may encounter:



  • Most newer Acura sedans and SUVs (such as TLX, MDX, RDX) place the primary cruise controls on the right side of the steering wheel with MAIN/ON and SET/RES plus a separate +/- switch.

  • Some older or rarer trims may use a stalk behind the steering wheel to engage cruise control or rely on different button labeling. In these cases the operation is similar, but the exact sequence and button names may differ.

  • In certain models, you must first press MAIN or ON to wake the cruise system before setting a speed with SET. If you don’t see an indicator, check the manual for your exact year and trim.


For precise controls and labels for your specific vehicle, refer to the owner’s manual or the in-car help screen. The display can guide you to the correct buttons and confirm when cruise control is active.


Safety considerations and tips


Use cruise control only on highways or long, straight stretches with minimal traffic and clear lanes. Do not rely on cruise control in heavy rain, snow, or city driving. Maintain attention and ready to take manual control at any moment. If you feel fatigued or distracted, it’s safer to deactivate cruise control.


Summary


Turning on cruise control in an Acura typically involves activating the system with a MAIN/ON button on the steering wheel, setting your current speed with SET, and adjusting or resuming with RES or +/- as needed. Some models may use a stalk or slightly different labels, so always check the owner’s manual for your exact year and trim. The system cancels with braking or CANCEL and can be turned off with MAIN or OFF when you’re finished.

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.