2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 Cruise Control Isn't Working

Fixing Cruise Control Malfunctions in 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 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 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 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 initial diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the non-functional cruise control in a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500?

When faced with a non-functional cruise control in your 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500, start by checking the cruise control fuse in the fuse box to confirm it is intact. A blown fuse can often be the simplest fix. Next, test the cruise control switch located on the steering wheel to ensure it is operating correctly, as a faulty switch can prevent the system from engaging. It's also important to examine the brake lights; if they are not functioning properly, it may indicate a malfunctioning brake light switch, which can disrupt the cruise control system. Additionally, inspect the vehicle speed sensor, as it is crucial for the cruise control to function effectively. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner, check for any error codes that may provide insight into the underlying issues affecting the cruise control system. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the problem with your cruise control.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. A blown fuse is often the first culprit to check, as it can easily disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the cruise control to function. Additionally, the brake pedal switch plays a critical role; if it's faulty, it may prevent the cruise control from engaging since the system is designed to deactivate when the brake is pressed. Another potential issue is the speed sensor, which is responsible for relaying the vehicle's speed to the cruise control system; any malfunction here can hinder the system's ability to maintain a set speed. Furthermore, the cruise control module itself may be defective, leading to operational failures. Lastly, don't overlook the possibility of vacuum leaks within the cruise control system, as these can significantly impact its performance. By systematically diagnosing these areas, you can effectively identify and resolve the issue with your cruise control.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning cruise control in a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500?

When it comes to a malfunctioning cruise control system in a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 1500, the urgency to address the issue cannot be overstated. A faulty cruise control can lead to unpredictable vehicle behavior, such as sudden acceleration or deceleration, which poses a significant safety risk not only to the driver but also to other road users. Moreover, if the cruise control system fails to maintain a consistent speed, it can compromise driving stability and control, making it difficult to navigate various driving conditions safely. Ignoring these symptoms may result in further damage to the vehicle's systems, leading to more extensive repairs and higher costs down the line. For those considering a DIY approach, it is crucial to recognize that while some issues may seem minor, they can escalate quickly if not addressed. Therefore, it is advisable to inspect and repair the cruise control system promptly, either by consulting a qualified mechanic or utilizing reliable resources for DIY repairs, to ensure both safety and optimal vehicle performance.

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