2003 Hyundai Tiburon Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2003 Hyundai Tiburon 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 2003 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 2003 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.

If the cruise control refuses to turn on at all, the actuator could be at fault. Likewise, if the cruise control stays on but does not maintain a consistent speed, the problem could be a bad actuator. In extreme cases, a malfunctioning actuator could cause the throttle to stick and prevent the vehicle from slowing down. These symptoms may point to a bad actuator. They may also point to other problems with the cruise control and related systems.

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 non-functioning cruise control in a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning cruise control in a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon, start with the simplest checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the brake lights and taillights, as a burnt-out bulb can disrupt the cruise control system due to its integrated circuitry. If the lights are functioning, proceed to examine the brake light switch located above the brake pedal, as a malfunction here can prevent the cruise control from engaging. Next, test the cruise control switches on the steering wheel for any signs of wear or damage, using an OBD scanner or multimeter to ensure they are sending the correct signals. After that, check the relevant fuses and relays associated with the cruise control system, referring to your vehicle's manual for guidance. If issues persist, utilize an OBD scanner to look for diagnostic codes that may indicate problems with the brake system, ABS, or traction control, as these systems are interconnected. Finally, inspect the ABS and traction control systems for any warning lights or codes that could be affecting the cruise control functionality. If you are still unable to resolve the issue, it may be wise to consult a mechanic who specializes in Asian vehicles for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the underlying problems with your cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon?

When dealing with cruise control issues in a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the electrical components, as blown fuses or faulty relays can disrupt the cruise control functionality. Additionally, check for any diagnostic codes stored in the vehicle's computer, as these can point to underlying electrical issues. Another critical area to inspect is the vacuum system; a leak in the vacuum lines or connections can lead to malfunctioning cruise control. It's also important to ensure that the brake and taillight bulbs are functioning correctly, as the cruise control system is integrated with these components. If any bulbs are out, particularly LED bulbs that may not be compatible, replacing them with standard bulbs can often resolve the issue. Furthermore, verify that the throttle cable is securely connected to the throttle body and that the vehicle speed sensor is functioning properly, as both are vital for cruise control operation. If these checks do not yield results, consider the possibility of a malfunctioning cruise control module, which may require professional assessment or replacement. Lastly, while less common, mechanical issues such as oil pressure sender problems can indirectly affect the cruise control system, so it's worth keeping an eye on overall vehicle health. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the cruise control problem in your Tiburon.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon?

While the non-functioning cruise control in a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon may not present an immediate safety risk, it is still advisable to address the issue sooner rather than later. Ignoring this problem can lead to increased driver fatigue during long trips, as the convenience of cruise control significantly enhances comfort on highways. Additionally, the underlying causes of the malfunction—such as faulty bulbs, electrical issues, or vacuum leaks—could potentially escalate into more serious problems if left unresolved. By taking the time to diagnose and fix the cruise control system, you not only restore a valuable feature of your vehicle but also ensure that any related issues are identified and managed before they lead to more significant repairs. Therefore, while the urgency may not be critical, timely attention to this matter can enhance your driving experience and maintain the overall health of your vehicle.

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