Cruise Control Actuator Replacement Cost Estimate

When diagnosing a malfunctioning cruise control actuator, a technician will look to rule out common faults in the system, including a blown fuse, a misadjusted or bad brake pedal switch, a faulty cruise control switch assembly, or a diagnostic trouble code from the computer. Depending on the age of the vehicle and the type of cruise control actuator, the technician might check for a leaky vacuum connection or blown diaphragm in the actuator. Newer vehicles, however, will have computer controlled actuators that will show a trouble code and may illuminate the check engine light and cruise control light.

Replacement of a cruise control actuator depends on the age of the vehicle and type of actuator used. In general, a technician will disconnect the cables that lead to the throttle and the accelerator pedal from the actuator, unplug the unit from the wiring harness, and unbolt the assembly from its mount. It may be necessary to first remove any components that are in the way of the actuator. The new actuator is set and fastened in place, the harness is plugged in, and the cables are attached and adjusted. Some newer vehicles have an electronic throttle control motor commanded by an electronic control module rather than a separate actuator. The procedure is different for replacement of this unit.

The cruise control system includes a number of components and settings. The cruise control switch assembly located on the steering wheel is made up of several switches that turn the system on, set the speed, adjust the speed upward, allow the vehicle to coast, resume speed, and cancel the setting. There are usually two lights on the dashboard: the cruise lamp that tells a driver that the system is on, and the set lamp that tells the driver that the speed has been set. RepairPal recommends becoming thoroughly familiar with the controls and settings of the cruise control system.

If the cruise control actuator malfunctions and causes the throttle to stick in the open position, effectively accelerating the engine in an uncontrolled manner, it is essential that the driver maintain composure, engage the hazard lights, look around for the nearest safe place to pull over, and try to disengage the system one last time before shifting the transmission into neutral. Pull over and shut the engine off. This procedure is the same if the accelerator pedal sticks for any reason.

Replacement of the cruise control actuator on many vehicles can be done by someone with intermediate DIY experience. Diagnosis and inspection of the total system is a more difficult task, especially with newer vehicles that use computer control rather than a mechanical vacuum control.