1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 1999 Ford E-150 Econoline and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 E-150 Econoline Club Wagon 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 E-150 Econoline Club Wagon 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.

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 cruise control issue in a 1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon?

To effectively diagnose cruise control issues in your 1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon, begin with the simplest solutions. Start by checking the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. Next, inspect the cruise control switch to ensure it is functioning properly; a faulty switch can prevent the system from engaging. Following this, examine the brake pedal switch, which is essential for disengaging cruise control when the brakes are applied. If these components check out, proceed to test the speed sensor, as it provides critical data for the cruise control operation. Additionally, look for any vacuum leaks in the system, as these can disrupt functionality. Finally, if the issue persists, utilize a diagnostic scanner to identify any error codes that may indicate specific problems within the cruise control system. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the cruise control issue, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse; a blown fuse in the vehicle's fuse box can easily disrupt the cruise control functionality, and replacing it is a straightforward fix. Additionally, the cruise control switch located on the steering wheel may be faulty, which would prevent the system from engaging properly. If the switch is not the issue, the brake pedal switch should be examined, as a defective switch can cause the cruise control to disengage unexpectedly. Another potential culprit is vacuum leaks within the cruise control system; inspecting the vacuum lines for any leaks and repairing them can restore functionality. Furthermore, a faulty speed sensor can hinder the system's ability to maintain a set speed, necessitating its replacement. Lastly, electrical issues, including wiring problems or a malfunctioning cruise control module, can also lead to system failure, so diagnosing and addressing these electrical concerns is crucial. By systematically checking these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the cruise control problems in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon?

Addressing the non-functioning cruise control in a 1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon is important, as neglecting this issue can lead to more significant problems down the line. While it may not seem like an immediate emergency, a malfunctioning cruise control system can indicate underlying electrical or mechanical issues that could compromise the vehicle's overall performance. For instance, if the cruise control is linked to the vehicle's braking or engine systems, failure to repair it could pose safety risks while driving. Additionally, a non-functioning cruise control can lead to increased driver fatigue during long trips, as maintaining speed manually becomes more taxing. By addressing the issue promptly, you not only enhance your driving experience but also prevent potential damage that could result in costly repairs. Therefore, it is advisable to have the cruise control inspected and repaired as soon as possible to ensure both safety and reliability on the road.

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1999 Ford E-150 Econoline Cruise Control Issues & Repairs