1998 Hyundai Tiburon Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 1998 Hyundai Tiburon and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Sensor
0%
25% chance it's the
Control Module
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25% chance it's the
Throttle
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1998 Hyundai Tiburon 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 1998 Hyundai Tiburon 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.

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 the non-functioning cruise control in a 1998 Hyundai Tiburon?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning cruise control in a 1998 Hyundai Tiburon, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex components. Begin by inspecting the basics, such as the fuse associated with the cruise control system; a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality. Next, examine the brake light switch, as a malfunction here can prevent the cruise control from engaging. Ensure that the brake lights illuminate when the pedal is pressed, and replace the switch if necessary. Moving on, check the vehicle speed sensor, which is critical for accurate speed readings; a faulty sensor can lead to cruise control failure. Additionally, inspect the cruise control actuator and throttle cable for any signs of wear or damage, as these components are essential for the system's operation. Don’t overlook the condition of the cruise control switches on the steering wheel, ensuring they are clean and functioning properly. Lastly, consider any dashboard warning lights that may indicate underlying issues affecting the cruise control system. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the root cause of the cruise control malfunction in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1998 Hyundai Tiburon?

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a 1998 Hyundai Tiburon, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first areas to check is the brake light bulbs; if any are burnt out, the cruise control system may disable itself as a safety precaution. Additionally, if you've replaced standard bulbs with LED ones, this could also disrupt the system due to their different electrical resistance. Another critical component to inspect is the clockspring located in the steering column, as damage here can sever the electrical connections necessary for cruise control operation. Furthermore, ensure that the throttle body is clean and that the cruise control cable is properly tensioned, as both can significantly impact functionality. The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is another vital element; any issues with its wiring or connections can lead to cruise control failure. Lastly, don't overlook general electrical and wiring problems, as these can often be the root cause of malfunctioning systems. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and restore the cruise control functionality in your Tiburon.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning cruise control in a 1998 Hyundai Tiburon?

While the malfunctioning cruise control in a 1998 Hyundai Tiburon may not pose an immediate safety risk, it is essential to recognize the urgency of addressing this issue. Ignoring symptoms such as engine surging can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, which may not seem critical at first but can accumulate into significant costs over time. Additionally, the discomfort caused by inconsistent cruise control performance can make long drives more tiring and less enjoyable. More importantly, a malfunctioning cruise control system could indicate underlying problems, such as issues with the throttle cable, vacuum leaks, or a faulty brake light switch, which could escalate into more serious safety concerns if left unattended. By proactively addressing the cruise control malfunction, you not only enhance your driving comfort but also prevent potential complications that could affect the vehicle's braking and traction control systems. Therefore, while the urgency may not be immediate, timely intervention is advisable to maintain both vehicle performance and driver safety.

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