2002 Ford Explorer Sport Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2002 Ford Explorer Sport 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 2002 Ford Explorer Sport 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 2002 Ford Explorer Sport 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 initial diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the non-functioning cruise control in a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport?

When troubleshooting the non-functioning cruise control in a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport, start with the simplest solutions to avoid unnecessary complexity. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the cruise control system; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. Next, inspect the cruise control switch located on the steering wheel to ensure it is operational, as a malfunctioning switch can prevent engagement. It's also essential to verify that the brake lights are functioning correctly, since a faulty brake light switch can inadvertently disable the cruise control. Additionally, examine the vehicle speed sensor, which is vital for the cruise control system to work properly. Finally, consider scanning the vehicle's onboard computer for any error codes that may indicate specific problems within the cruise control system. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively identify and address the common issues that may be affecting your cruise control functionality.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to its failure. One of the primary culprits is a faulty brake pedal switch, which can disrupt the system's ability to engage or disengage as needed. Additionally, a defective speed sensor may prevent the cruise control from maintaining a steady speed, causing it to malfunction. It's also worth checking for a blown fuse, as this can completely disable the cruise control system. Another potential issue is vacuum leaks within the engine, which can affect the operation of vacuum-operated components crucial for cruise control functionality. Lastly, a faulty cruise control module may result in the system not responding to user commands or failing to hold speed settings. By systematically diagnosing these common issues, you can effectively restore the cruise control functionality in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport?

When evaluating the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control in a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport, it is crucial to recognize the potential safety risks associated with a malfunctioning system. Cruise control is designed to maintain a steady speed, which can enhance driving safety, especially on long trips. A failure in this system may lead to erratic speed changes, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the convenience factor cannot be overlooked; without functional cruise control, long drives can become tiring and uncomfortable, detracting from the overall driving experience. While the vehicle may still operate without this feature, neglecting the repair could lead to further electrical or mechanical issues down the line, complicating future repairs and potentially incurring higher costs. Therefore, addressing the cruise control malfunction promptly is advisable to ensure a safer, more comfortable driving experience and to prevent additional complications.

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