1996 Honda Civic Del Sol Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 1996 Honda Civic del Sol 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 1996 Honda Civic del Sol 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 1996 Honda Civic del Sol 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 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.

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.

What are the steps to diagnose a non-functioning cruise control system in a 1996 Honda Civic del Sol?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning cruise control system in a 1996 Honda Civic del Sol, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the cruise control; a blown fuse is a straightforward issue that can easily disrupt functionality. Next, assess the cruise control switch to ensure it is operational, as a faulty switch can prevent the system from engaging. Following this, examine the brake pedal switch, which is crucial for disengaging the cruise control when brakes are applied; any malfunction here can lead to significant issues. The speed sensor is another critical component, so verify its performance to ensure it accurately detects the vehicle's speed. Additionally, inspect the vacuum lines for any leaks or damage, as these are vital for the operation of the cruise control system in older vehicles. Finally, utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes can provide deeper insights into potential problems. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the issues affecting the cruise control system in your Honda Civic del Sol.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1996 Honda Civic del Sol?

When dealing with a malfunctioning cruise control system in a 1996 Honda Civic del Sol, it's important to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first areas to check is the cruise control switch, as a faulty switch can prevent the system from engaging. Additionally, a blown fuse within the cruise control circuit can lead to complete failure, so inspecting the fuses is a crucial step. Vacuum leaks are another frequent culprit, as they can disrupt the necessary pressure for the system to function properly. The speed sensor also plays a vital role; if it's defective, it may cause the cruise control to disengage unexpectedly. Furthermore, issues with the brake light switch can inhibit the cruise control from activating, as the system is designed to disengage when the brakes are applied. Lastly, a malfunctioning throttle cable can hinder the cruise control's ability to maintain speed effectively. By systematically diagnosing these potential issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the cruise control problems in their Honda Civic del Sol.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 1996 Honda Civic del Sol?

Addressing the non-functioning cruise control in a 1996 Honda Civic del Sol is more urgent than it may initially seem. While it might not appear to be an immediate emergency, neglecting this issue can lead to significant safety risks on the road. A malfunctioning cruise control system can cause erratic speed changes, which may result in loss of control or accidents. Furthermore, the comfort and convenience that cruise control provides, especially during long drives, are compromised when the system fails. This not only affects the driving experience but can also lead to driver fatigue. Additionally, a malfunctioning cruise control could indicate underlying problems within the vehicle's electrical system or engine components, which, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more severe and costly repairs. Lastly, maintaining all vehicle features, including cruise control, is essential for preserving the car's resale value. Therefore, it is advisable to prioritize the repair of the cruise control system to ensure safety, enhance comfort, and prevent further complications.

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