1994 Chevrolet G20 Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 1994 Chevrolet G20 and How to Fix Them

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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 1994 Chevrolet G20 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 1994 Chevrolet G20 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.

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 1994 Chevrolet G20?

To effectively troubleshoot the non-functional cruise control in your 1994 Chevrolet G20, start by checking the fuses associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse can often be the simplest fix. Next, assess the condition of the brake pedal and throttle body, since any malfunction in these components can directly impact cruise control functionality. During a test drive, try holding the brake pedal up with your left foot while engaging the cruise control; this can sometimes help activate the system if there are minor issues with the brake switch. Additionally, inspect the vehicle speed sensor and its circuit, as problems here can prevent the cruise control from operating correctly. Don’t forget to consult your vehicle manual to locate the fuse box in the engine bay and verify the specific fuse for the cruise control. Lastly, examine the cruise control/brake switch for any signs of wear or malfunction, as this could also be a contributing factor. By following these steps, you can systematically diagnose and potentially resolve the issues affecting your cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1994 Chevrolet G20?

When dealing with cruise control issues in a 1994 Chevrolet G20, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may arise. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse can completely disable its functionality. Additionally, the cruise control switch itself may be faulty, preventing the system from engaging or disengaging as intended. Another potential culprit is vacuum leaks, which can disrupt the system's ability to maintain speed. It's also important to inspect the speed sensor, as inaccuracies in speed readings can lead to cruise control malfunctions. The brake light switch should not be overlooked either, as a malfunction here can interfere with the cruise control's operation. Lastly, issues with the throttle cable, such as fraying or stretching, can significantly impact performance. By systematically examining these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the cruise control problems in their Chevrolet G20.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 1994 Chevrolet G20?

When contemplating the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control in your 1994 Chevrolet G20, it's essential to evaluate how often you utilize this feature and the potential impact on your driving experience. For those who frequently embark on long highway journeys, the absence of cruise control can lead to increased fatigue and discomfort, making the repair more pressing. Conversely, if your driving primarily consists of short trips or stop-and-go traffic, the urgency may diminish. However, neglecting this repair could lead to further complications within the vehicle's system, potentially resulting in more extensive and costly repairs down the line. While the malfunctioning cruise control may not pose an immediate safety risk, addressing the issue promptly can enhance your overall driving experience and prevent future inconveniences. Ultimately, if you value the comfort and convenience that cruise control provides, prioritizing this repair is advisable to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable ride.

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1994 Chevrolet G20 Cruise Control Issues & Repairs