1999 Chrysler Town & Country Cruise Control Isn't Working

Fixing Cruise Control Malfunctions in 1999 Chrysler Town & Country

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Chrysler Town & Country 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 Chrysler Town & Country 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 1999 Chrysler Town & Country?

When troubleshooting the non-functional cruise control in a 1999 Chrysler Town & Country, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the cruise control system, 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 malfunctioning buttons can prevent the system from engaging. Following this, verify the speed sensor's functionality, since a faulty sensor can disrupt the cruise control's operation. In older models, like the Town & Country, it's also crucial to examine the vacuum lines for any leaks or damage, as these can significantly impact the system's performance. Additionally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide insights into underlying problems. Lastly, ensure that the brake lights are functioning correctly, as a defective brake light switch can disable the cruise control. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control issue in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1999 Chrysler Town & Country?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 1999 Chrysler Town & Country, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be causing the malfunction. Start by checking for a blown fuse, as this can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the cruise control to operate. Next, examine the brake pedal switch; if it is faulty, the system may not engage because it is designed to deactivate when the brake is pressed. A defective speed sensor is another critical component to investigate, as it is responsible for maintaining a constant speed. Additionally, vacuum leaks can significantly impact the system's functionality by disrupting the necessary pressure for operation. Finally, a malfunctioning cruise control module can lead to a complete failure of the system. By systematically diagnosing these areas, you can effectively identify and resolve the issue with your cruise control, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 1999 Chrysler Town & Country?

When contemplating the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control in your 1999 Chrysler Town & Country, it's essential to weigh both comfort and potential long-term implications. While cruise control is primarily a convenience feature, its absence can lead to increased driver fatigue, especially on long journeys, which may compromise safety indirectly. Additionally, if you plan to sell or trade in your vehicle, a functioning cruise control system can enhance its resale value, making the repair a worthwhile investment. Furthermore, issues with the cruise control may signal underlying problems within the vehicle's electronic systems, which could escalate if left unaddressed. Therefore, while the repair may not be immediately critical, addressing it sooner rather than later can improve your driving experience and prevent more significant issues down the road.

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