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.
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.
When faced with cruise control problems in your Ford Taurus, start by checking the simplest potential issues first. Begin with the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel; ensure they are functioning properly and not stuck. Next, inspect the brake pedal switch, as a malfunction here can prevent cruise control from engaging. If the cruise control light does not illuminate when activated, it may indicate a blown fuse, so check the fuses related to the cruise control and brake lights. Additionally, listen for any unusual noises, such as a tic-tac sound from the steering wheel, which could signal a deeper issue. If the airbag light is on, this may also affect cruise control functionality, so addressing that warning is crucial. By systematically checking these components, you can identify and resolve the issue, restoring your cruise control system to working order without needing professional assistance.
When dealing with cruise control malfunctions in a Ford Taurus, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the first areas to investigate is the brake pedal switch, as a defective switch can prevent the cruise control from engaging or cause it to disengage unexpectedly. Additionally, blown fuses can disrupt the power supply to the cruise control system, leading to operational failures. It's also important to check the brake pedal position sensor and the throttle body, as issues with these components can interfere with the cruise control's functionality. If the cruise control drops out suddenly, the brake deactivation switch located on the master cylinder may be malfunctioning, which is another critical point to examine. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the root causes of cruise control issues, ensuring a smoother driving experience.
When the cruise control in your Ford Taurus is not functioning, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly, as neglecting it can lead to safety risks and further complications. Common culprits include a failed control module, faulty sensors, or malfunctioning switches, which can disrupt the system's operation. Additionally, a defective brake pedal switch or a blown fuse may prevent the cruise control from engaging, while a cracked vacuum hose in vacuum-based systems can severely impair functionality. It's also important to check the cruise control cable, as it may slip off the throttle body, causing the cruise control light to activate without actually working. Lastly, issues with the brake deactivation switch can lead to unexpected disengagement of the cruise control, posing a potential hazard while driving. By addressing these components quickly, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.
See what others are asking about their Ford Taurus. Get answers from RepairPal's community of auto experts and enthusiasts.
Read about related problems experienced by other Ford Taurus drivers like you.
