2006 Chevrolet Uplander Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2006 Chevrolet Uplander and How to Fix Them

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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 2006 Chevrolet Uplander 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 2006 Chevrolet Uplander 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.

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-functioning cruise control in a 2006 Chevrolet Uplander?

When troubleshooting the non-functioning cruise control in a 2006 Chevrolet Uplander, 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. Next, inspect the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are operational, as faulty buttons can prevent the system from engaging. Following this, verify the speed sensor's functionality, since it is critical for the cruise control to operate correctly; a malfunction here can lead to significant issues. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide insights into specific problems affecting the cruise control system. Additionally, examine the vacuum lines connected to the cruise control module for any leaks or damage, as vacuum issues can disrupt the system's performance. Lastly, ensure that the brake and clutch switches are functioning properly, as these components are designed to disengage the cruise control when activated. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control issue in your Uplander, paving the way for a smoother driving experience. If these checks do not resolve the problem, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic may be necessary for more complex diagnostics.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2006 Chevrolet Uplander?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2006 Chevrolet Uplander, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the first components to check is the brake light switch, as a malfunction here can prevent the cruise control from engaging; this switch is designed to deactivate the system when the brake pedal is pressed. Additionally, a defective speed sensor can disrupt the system's ability to maintain a constant speed, leading to its failure. It's also wise to inspect the fuses related to the cruise control system, as a blown fuse can completely disable its functionality. Furthermore, vacuum leaks in the engine can interfere with the cruise control's operation, causing it to disengage unexpectedly. Lastly, the cruise control module itself may be faulty, which can prevent the system from engaging or maintaining speed. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can identify and potentially resolve the issues affecting their cruise control system.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2006 Chevrolet Uplander?

When evaluating the urgency of fixing a non-functioning cruise control in your 2006 Chevrolet Uplander, it's essential to weigh both convenience and safety factors. While cruise control primarily serves as a comfort feature, particularly beneficial during long highway drives, its malfunction can lead to increased driver fatigue as you manually maintain speed. This can become a safety concern, especially on extended trips where distractions may arise from constantly adjusting your speed. Moreover, ignoring the issue could result in more significant problems down the line, such as electrical faults or component failures that may affect other vehicle systems. Therefore, while it may not seem like an immediate emergency, addressing the cruise control issue promptly can enhance your driving experience, improve safety, and prevent further complications, making it a worthwhile consideration for any DIY enthusiast.

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