1999 Ford Crown Victoria Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 1999 Ford Crown Victoria 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 Ford Crown Victoria 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 Ford Crown Victoria 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.

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 steps to diagnose the non-functioning cruise control in a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning cruise control in your 1999 Ford Crown Victoria, start by inspecting the vacuum lines connected to the intake and brake booster, as a vacuum leak can significantly impact the system's performance. Next, examine the control switches, particularly the upper switch, which is known to fail in this model year. If the cruise control stopped working suddenly, pay close attention to the steering wheel area, as issues with the cruise control switches there can also be a culprit. It’s advisable to test the cruise control on a smooth highway, as road conditions can influence its operation. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, it may be time to seek assistance from a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the problem with your cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria?

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A blown fuse is often the first culprit to check, as it can completely disable the cruise control system. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the brake pedal switch; if this switch is faulty, it may fail to signal the system to disengage when the brakes are applied, leading to unexpected behavior. Additionally, a defective speed sensor can disrupt the communication necessary for the cruise control to function correctly, so testing this component is crucial. Another potential issue is vacuum leaks within the cruise control system, which can cause a loss of pressure and affect operation. Lastly, a malfunctioning cruise control module itself may be the root cause, preventing the system from engaging or disengaging as intended. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the cruise control problems in their Ford Crown Victoria.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria?

When it comes to the non-functioning cruise control in a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for any DIY enthusiast. While the lack of cruise control may not present an immediate safety hazard, it can signal underlying electrical issues that, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more significant problems. The cruise control system is intricately linked to various components of the vehicle, and neglecting its repair might lead to complications that affect overall vehicle performance. Moreover, a malfunctioning cruise control can detract from the driving experience, especially on long trips where maintaining a steady speed is beneficial. Therefore, while it may not be an emergency, it is advisable to prioritize the inspection and repair of the cruise control system to ensure the vehicle remains reliable and enjoyable to drive. Taking action sooner rather than later can prevent further complications and enhance the overall functionality of your Ford Crown Victoria.

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