2005 Buick LeSabre Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2005 Buick LeSabre and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2005 Buick LeSabre 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 2005 Buick LeSabre 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.

When the throttle position sensor fails, the engine's computer tends to overcompensate with fuel, leading black exhaust coming from the tailpipe. There is a strong possibility of engine misfires, and the check engine light will come on.

Throttle position sensors can also develop "dead spots," or certain places along the throttle curve where it doesn't get a reading. When this happens, the above symptoms can occur but then stop when you further press or let off the gas pedal.

When the vehicle speed sensor fails or the wiring harness prevents signal transmission, the speedometer is the first thing that will stop functioning properly. This can be an intermittent issue where the speedometer only works occasionally, the speedometer may cease all function, or the speedometer may read erratically or incorrectly. Also, the traction control and anti lock brake warning lights specific to each vehicle may be illuminated, depending on the design of those systems. You may notice the vehicle hesitate to accelerate, cruise control will not function properly, and the vehicle may not shift properly through all of the gears.

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.

A faulty cruise control module will simply result in deactivation of cruise control settings. This is because a detected error in the cruise control system could lead to hazardous driving conditions, so the module will be disabled, and the cruise control system warning light will be displayed. This will be a different message depending on make and model, and a warning light or message may be displayed on the driver instrument cluster.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning cruise control on my 2005 Buick LeSabre?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning cruise control on your 2005 Buick LeSabre, start by consulting your vehicle's manual to locate the fuse box in the engine bay. This is a crucial first step, as a blown fuse is often the simplest issue to resolve. Once you have located the fuse box, remove the fuse associated with the cruise control system and inspect it for any signs of damage. You can use a multimeter for a more precise test or simply check for a break in the metal strip. If the fuse appears to be intact, the next step involves examining the control module, sensors, and switches related to the cruise control system. These components can sometimes fail and may require further troubleshooting. By systematically addressing these areas, you can identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to restore functionality to your cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2005 Buick LeSabre?

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a 2005 Buick LeSabre, it's essential to understand the common problems that may lead to its failure. One frequent culprit is a faulty brake pedal switch, which can either prevent the cruise control from engaging or cause it to disengage unexpectedly. Additionally, a defective speed sensor can disrupt the necessary communication between the vehicle's speed system and the cruise control, resulting in malfunction. Another potential issue is a blown fuse within the cruise control system, which can halt its operation entirely. Furthermore, vacuum leaks in the engine can interfere with the system's ability to maintain a steady speed, while a malfunctioning cruise control module may require replacement to restore functionality. By identifying these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address the issues affecting their vehicle's cruise control system.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2005 Buick LeSabre?

When considering the urgency of addressing a non-functioning cruise control in a 2005 Buick LeSabre, it's essential to recognize that while this issue may not pose an immediate safety risk, it should not be overlooked. The cruise control system enhances driving comfort, especially on long trips, and its malfunction could indicate underlying electrical problems that might escalate if left unaddressed. Although the absence of cruise control primarily affects convenience rather than safety, neglecting this issue could lead to increased driver fatigue and higher fuel consumption during extended drives. Therefore, while it may not require immediate action, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic soon to diagnose any potential issues and ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition. Taking proactive steps can prevent more significant problems down the line, making it a wise decision for any Buick LeSabre owner.

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