2004 BMW 745Li Cruise Control Isn't Working

Fixing Cruise Control Issues in Your 2004 BMW 745Li

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Sensor
0%
25% chance it's the
Control Module
0%
25% chance it's the
Throttle
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2004 BMW 745Li cruise control isn't working are failed control module, sensor or switch issues, or throttle actuation problems.
  • Sensor: A faulty or malfunctioning sensor can lead to incorrect readings, causing issues with engine performance or other systems relying on accurate data.
  • Control Module: A faulty control module can lead to erratic vehicle behavior or failure of various electronic systems due to improper signal processing.
  • Throttle: A faulty throttle body or a defective accelerator pedal position sensor may be causing inconsistent throttle response.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2004 BMW 745Li cruise control isn't working?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

In the event that a wheel speed sensor fails, the ABS, traction control system (TCS) and manufacturer specific stability control system lights will illuminate, informing the driver that the systems are disabled. The vehicle will be more prone to tire slip, and normal driving patterns may need to be adjusted to correct for the loss of computer control. On older vehicle's, the speedometer can be affected, causing illumination of the check engine light as well.

The cruise control switch can cause complete failure of the cruise control feature, but in a lucky scenario only partial functionality will be lost. This means that the cruise control may come on, but that it will not increase in speed automatically, or the cancel button does not work leading the driver to cancel cruise control with the foot brake. In some vehicles, the cruise control light may illuminate, or a warning message may be displayed due to lack of functionality.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the non-functional cruise control in a 2004 BMW 745Li?

When troubleshooting the non-functional cruise control in a 2004 BMW 745Li, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the cruise control buttons to ensure they are functioning correctly and sending the right signals. If the buttons appear to be operational, the next step is to utilize a BMW diagnostic scanner, which can read and clear codes from the Transmission Control Unit (TCU). This tool will help you identify any stored dropout codes that indicate why the cruise control may have disengaged. Additionally, inspect the speed sensor, as a malfunction here can trigger the Check Engine Light and affect cruise control functionality. It's also important to consider other potential root causes, such as issues with the steering angle sensor, control module faults, or low power steering fluid levels. By methodically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the cruise control issues in your BMW, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2004 BMW 745Li?

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a 2004 BMW 745Li, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty speed sensor, which can disrupt the system's ability to maintain speed. Additionally, issues with the control module can lead to a complete failure of the cruise control functionality. Electrical problems, such as wiring faults or blown fuses, can also hinder the system's performance. It's important to check for sensor malfunctions, particularly with the steering angle sensor, as these can directly impact cruise control operation. Mechanical failures, including issues with the rear height level sensor or air suspension springs, may also contribute to the problem. Lastly, be aware of intermittent issues, such as warning lights that appear sporadically, as these can indicate underlying faults that need addressing. By systematically diagnosing these potential issues, DIYers can effectively restore the cruise control functionality in their BMW 745Li.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2004 BMW 745Li?

When assessing the urgency of addressing a non-functioning cruise control in a 2004 BMW 745Li, it's essential to recognize that while this feature primarily enhances driving comfort, its failure can sometimes signal more significant electronic or sensor-related issues. If the cruise control malfunction is accompanied by other warning lights or symptoms, it may indicate a critical problem that warrants immediate attention to prevent further damage or safety risks. Additionally, if the failure is sporadic, it may not seem pressing, but ignoring it could lead to a complete breakdown of the system, affecting overall vehicle performance. Therefore, while the urgency may not be as high as with safety-critical systems, timely investigation and repair of the cruise control issue are advisable to maintain the vehicle's functionality and ensure a pleasant driving experience, especially for those who rely on this feature for long-distance travel.

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