1999 Chevrolet Venture Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 1999 Chevrolet Venture 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 1999 Chevrolet Venture 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 1999 Chevrolet Venture 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.

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 steps to diagnose the cruise control issue in a 1999 Chevrolet Venture?

To effectively diagnose a cruise control issue in a 1999 Chevrolet Venture, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse is a common and easily rectifiable problem. Next, assess the functionality of the cruise control switch; a malfunctioning switch can prevent the system from engaging. Following this, examine the brake pedal switch, which is crucial for disengaging the cruise control when brakes are applied. If these components are functioning correctly, proceed to test the vehicle speed sensor, as it is vital for maintaining a consistent speed. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide insights into any underlying issues affecting the cruise control system. Lastly, inspect the vacuum lines for any leaks or damage, as these can significantly impact performance in older vehicles. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve cruise control issues in your Chevrolet Venture.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1999 Chevrolet Venture?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 1999 Chevrolet Venture, it's important to consider several common issues that may be at play. A failed control module can prevent the system from functioning, so checking for any signs of electrical failure or error codes is a good starting point. Additionally, sensor or switch malfunctions, particularly those related to the throttle or brake/clutch, can disrupt the cruise control's operation. Inspecting these components for wear or damage is crucial. Another potential issue could be throttle actuation problems, which may stem from a malfunctioning throttle body or linkage. Lastly, broken wires from the stem switch can lead to intermittent or complete loss of cruise control functionality, so a thorough visual inspection of the wiring is recommended. By systematically examining these areas, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the issues affecting their vehicle's cruise control system.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning cruise control in a 1999 Chevrolet Venture?

Addressing the malfunctioning cruise control in a 1999 Chevrolet Venture is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. A malfunctioning system can lead to unexpected acceleration or deceleration, which can be dangerous while driving. Additionally, issues with the cruise control may signal deeper problems within the vehicle's electronic systems or sensors, potentially affecting overall performance and reliability. Ignoring these symptoms not only compromises safety but can also lead to decreased fuel efficiency and further damage to other vehicle components, resulting in more costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly diagnose and fix any cruise control issues to ensure safe driving conditions and maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.

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