2001 Cadillac DeVille Cruise Control Isn't Working

Fixing Cruise Control Issues in Your 2001 Cadillac DeVille

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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 2001 Cadillac DeVille 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 2001 Cadillac DeVille 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.

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.

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 are the initial diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the non-functional cruise control in a 2001 Cadillac DeVille?

When troubleshooting the non-functional cruise control in a 2001 Cadillac DeVille, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the cruise control fuse located in the fuse box, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can prevent the system from operating. Next, inspect the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are functioning correctly; faulty buttons can hinder engagement. Following this, verify the vehicle's speed sensors, as they play a crucial role in the cruise control system's operation; any malfunction here can disrupt functionality. Additionally, examine the vacuum lines connected to the cruise control system for any leaks or damage, as these can significantly impact performance. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, use a diagnostic scanner to scan for error codes that may indicate specific problems within the system. Finally, if all else fails, test the cruise control module itself, as a malfunctioning module can be the root cause of the problem. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control issues in your Cadillac DeVille.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2001 Cadillac DeVille?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2001 Cadillac DeVille, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to its failure. One of the primary culprits is a faulty cruise control switch, which can hinder the system's ability to engage or disengage as intended. Additionally, a defective brake pedal switch can disrupt the cruise control functionality since it is designed to deactivate the system when the brake is applied. Another potential issue is a broken speed sensor, which is crucial for maintaining a consistent speed; if this sensor is damaged, the cruise control may not operate correctly. It's also important to check for a blown fuse in the vehicle's electrical system, as this can completely disable the cruise control. Lastly, vacuum leaks in the engine can significantly impact the cruise control's performance, as the system relies on vacuum pressure to function effectively. By systematically addressing these issues, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control problems in your Cadillac DeVille.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 2001 Cadillac DeVille?

When contemplating the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control in your 2001 Cadillac DeVille, it's essential to weigh the convenience it offers against the potential consequences of neglecting the issue. While cruise control is not a critical safety feature, its malfunction can lead to a less enjoyable driving experience, especially during long trips where maintaining a steady speed is beneficial. If you frequently rely on this feature, postponing repairs could result in discomfort and fatigue on extended drives. Moreover, while the immediate safety risks may be minimal, ignoring the underlying issues could lead to more significant problems down the line, potentially affecting other vehicle systems. Therefore, if cruise control plays a vital role in your driving habits, addressing the repair sooner rather than later can enhance your overall driving comfort and prevent future complications.

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2001 Cadillac DeVille Cruise Control Issues & Repair Costs