2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT Cruise Control Isn't Working

Fixing Cruise Control Issues in Your 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT 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 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT 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 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.

What are the steps to diagnose the cruise control issue in a 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT?

To effectively diagnose a cruise control issue in a 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the cruise control fuse, as a blown or damaged fuse can easily disrupt the system's functionality. Next, inspect the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are not stuck or malfunctioning, as this can prevent proper engagement. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to scan for error codes is a crucial step, as it can reveal specific issues that may not be immediately visible. Following this, examine the speed sensors, as faulty sensors can significantly impact cruise control performance. The brake pedal switch is another critical component; testing it will confirm whether it is functioning correctly, as it directly affects the cruise control's operation. Additionally, inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or corrosion, which can lead to intermittent issues. If these steps do not resolve the problem, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic with experience in Cadillac vehicles is advisable for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address cruise control issues in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT?

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first areas to check is the brake pedal switch, as a faulty switch can prevent the cruise control from engaging, since it is designed to deactivate when the brake is pressed. Additionally, issues with the speed sensor can lead to inaccurate speed readings, which may cause the cruise control to malfunction or disengage unexpectedly. It's also wise to inspect the vehicle's fuses, as a blown fuse in the cruise control system can disrupt its operation entirely. If these components appear to be functioning correctly, the cruise control module itself may be defective, hindering communication with the vehicle's systems. Lastly, don't overlook the possibility of vacuum leaks in the engine, as these can significantly impact the cruise control's ability to maintain a steady speed. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can often identify the root cause of cruise control problems and take appropriate action to restore functionality.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT?

Addressing the non-functioning cruise control in a 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT should be considered a priority, even if it may not seem critical at first glance. While the absence of cruise control does not directly compromise the vehicle's basic drivability or safety, it can significantly affect the overall driving experience, especially during long trips where maintaining a consistent speed is beneficial. Ignoring this issue could lead to further complications, such as potential damage to the vehicle's electrical system or other related components, which may arise from underlying problems that go unaddressed. Moreover, the inconvenience of not having cruise control can detract from the comfort and ease of driving, particularly for those who rely on this feature regularly. Therefore, it is advisable to tackle the repair promptly to ensure the vehicle remains functional and enjoyable to drive, preventing minor issues from escalating into more significant concerns.

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