Why is the cruise control not working on my Ford Fusion?
The quick answer is that in most Ford Fusions, cruise control failure comes down to a faulty brake light switch, a blown fuse, or a problem with the cruise control module or its signals. Start with basic electrical checks, then inspect the brake switch and stalk, and if those don’t reveal the issue, plan for a deeper diagnostic.
Common causes of cruise control failure
These are the issues most likely to disable cruise control on a Fusion across model years, including the 2013–2020 generations.
- Faulty brake light switch or brake pedal position switch. If this switch is failing or misadjusted, the system may refuse to engage or immediately disengage when you press the brake pedal.
- Blown fuse or faulty relay supplying power to the cruise control system. Without proper power, the stalk button won’t engage the system.
- Malfunctioning cruise control switch or wiring. Damaged stalk wiring or corroded connectors can interrupt the signal from the steering wheel to the control module.
- Cruise control actuator/servo or throttle control issue. Some Fusion engines use an electronic throttle control actuator for cruise; failure here can prevent engagement or cause abrupt disengagement.
- Vehicle speed sensor or related sensor problems. If the car can’t read its speed correctly, cruise control may not engage or may disengage soon after you start using it.
- Electronic control unit (ECU) or module faults. Software glitches or failing control modules can disable cruise control, sometimes requiring an update or reprogramming.
Diagnosing these issues typically starts with power and signal checks, then moves to sensors and the cruise control components. If you’ve had recent work on the braking system or electrical wiring, that work may be related.
DIY diagnostic steps you can take at home
Use these steps to identify common problems before visiting a shop. They cover the most frequent culprits and can save time and money if the issue is simple.
- Check the brake lights and test the brake light switch. If the brake lights are dim, stay on, or don’t illuminate when you press the pedal, the switch may need adjustment or replacement.
- Inspect fuses and relays associated with the cruise control system. Replace any blown fuse and reseat relays to ensure a solid connection.
- Inspect the cruise control stalk and its wiring for visible damage, loose connectors, or corrosion. Repair or replace as needed.
- Scan for diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner (Ford-specific codes, if available, can point to cruise control or vehicle speed sensor issues). Note any codes related to throttle, speed sensing, or braking systems.
- Check the throttle control system wiring and throttle body harness for secure connections. If your Fusion uses a throttle actuator, look for signs of wear or failure in the actuator assembly.
- Take a test drive with attention to the exact behavior: does the system fail to engage at all, engage briefly and drop out, or require a reset after braking? Document patterns you observe for the mechanic.
If the cruise control still does not engage after these checks, the issue may lie with the ECU, a failing speed sensor, or the cruise control module itself, requiring professional diagnosis and possibly software updates or component replacement.
When to seek professional help
Some faults are not safe or practical to fix at home. If you notice any of the following, schedule service with a Ford dealer or a trusted shop familiar with Ford systems:
- Persistent failure to engage or intermittent engagement despite basic checks.
- Diagnostic trouble codes related to cruise control, throttle control, or vehicle speed sensors.
- Warning lights on the dash (including the cruise indicator) that remain on or flash in a pattern.
- Abnormal braking system issues or electrical faults that affect multiple systems.
Professional technicians can use Ford IDS or other factory-level tools to test the cruise control components, confirm proper signaling, run software updates, and replace any faulty hardware safely.
Summary
For a Ford Fusion, cruise control usually stops working due to a faulty brake switch, a blown fuse, or a problematic cruise control module or signal. Start with basic electrical checks—brake lights, fuses, and the stalk wiring—then use a diagnostic scan to check for codes related to speed sensing and throttle control. If the issue isn’t resolved by these steps, seek professional diagnosis to address potential ECU, sensor, or actuator failures. Regular maintenance and timely software updates can help prevent future cruise control issues.
