Why is my cruise control not working on my Chevy?
Most Chevy cruise-control failures are caused by electrical issues (blown fuse, faulty brake pedal switch) or a malfunctioning cruise-control module or speed sensor. In many cases, a quick check can reveal the culprit and restore function.
Cruise control is designed to hold a set speed on highways and, in models with adaptive cruise control (ACC), to maintain a safe following distance using radar or camera sensors. When the system fails, it can be due to a simple sensor problem, a low-power fuse, or a fault in the module that governs the system. This guide explains what to check and when to seek professional help.
Common causes you can check at home
Below are the most frequent culprits Chevy owners encounter, along with practical screening steps you can perform before visiting a shop.
- Blown fuse or fusible link for the cruise control system (check under-hood and interior fuse boxes for a fuse labeled CC, CRUISE, or IC).
- Faulty or out-of-adjustment brake pedal switch (the cruise system disables when the brake is pressed or the switch is failing).
- Defective cruise-control module or steering-wheel control stalk (the switch that engages SET/RES or ON can fail).
- Throttle actuator control or electronic throttle body faults (a fault in the throttle system can prevent cruise control from maintaining speed).
- Vehicle speed sensor or ABS/wheel-speed sensor problems (cruise control relies on accurate speed data to maintain set speed).
If you don’t find a clear issue in these areas or the check engine light is on, the problem may be more complex and require professional diagnostics.
Adaptive cruise control considerations
For Chevy models equipped with adaptive cruise control, additional factors can affect operation. ACC uses radar and sometimes cameras, so sensor cleanliness and alignment matter for reliable performance.
- Dirty, blocked, or misaligned radar sensor or camera (often located behind the bumper or near the windshield; cleaning or realignment may be needed).
- ACC not available due to fault codes or calibration errors (a dealer-grade scan and software update or re-calibration may be required).
- System disengages if the sensors detect an unsafe following gap or a fault in the radar/camera system (the roadside or bumper damage can trigger this).
Note that not every Chevy has ACC as standard or available; even if you don’t have ACC, basic cruise control can still be affected by the same electrical and sensor conditions described above.
Diagnostics and next steps
When basic home checks don’t restore function, professional diagnostics become the most reliable path. A technician will typically perform a fault-code scan, inspect the cruise-control actuators, test the brake switch, review wiring for damage, and verify sensor data to isolate the cause.
- Electrical/system diagnostics with a scan tool to pull Cruise Control-related fault codes and live data.
- Physical inspection of the brake pedal switch, steering-wheel controls, and the cruise-control wiring harness.
- Functional tests of the throttle-by-wire system and throttle actuator, often in combination with calibration procedures.
- Inspection and service of ACC components (if equipped) such as radar sensor, camera, and software calibration.
Expect a targeted repair plan based on findings, which may include replacing a fuse, repairing wiring, replacing the brake switch, updating software, or calibrating sensors. Some repairs may require a dealer-level tool or service visit.
What to expect at the shop
At a dealership or qualified shop, technicians will typically begin with noninvasive diagnostics, then proceed to tested components. Depending on the vehicle, they may:
- Run a comprehensive diagnostics check for CC/ACC-related fault codes and sensor data.
- Inspect and test the brake light switch and brake pedal assembly.
- Inspect the cruise-control module, stalk, and wiring harness for damage or corrosion.
- Check the throttle actuator and electronic throttle body for faults or miscalibration.
- For ACC-equipped models, inspect the radar/camera sensors and perform calibration if needed.
Costs vary by model and the exact fault but can range from inexpensive fuse/wiring repairs to more involved module replacements or sensor recalibrations. Always request a preliminary diagnostic to understand the expected scope before major work.
Summary
In most Chevy cases, cruise-control failure stems from electrical issues, sensor problems, or safety interlocks like the brake switch. Start with simple checks—fuses, brake pedal switch, and visible wiring—before moving to professional diagnostics, especially if adaptive cruise control is involved. Regular maintenance and keeping sensors clean and properly calibrated can help prevent future outages and keep the system functioning as intended.
