2001 INFINITI G20 Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2001 INFINITI G20 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 2001 INFINITI G20 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 2001 INFINITI G20 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 initial diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the non-functional cruise control in a 2001 INFINITI G20?

When faced with a non-functional cruise control in a 2001 INFINITI G20, it's important to approach the diagnosis methodically, starting with the simplest solutions. Begin by checking the cruise control fuse in the fuse box, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. Next, inspect the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are operational, as faulty buttons can prevent engagement. The speed sensor is another critical component; verify its functionality since a malfunction here can disrupt the entire system. Additionally, examine the vacuum lines for any leaks or damage, as these are vital in older models like the G20. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can also be beneficial to check for any error codes that may indicate specific problems. Finally, ensure that the brake and clutch switches are working correctly, as these switches are designed to disengage the cruise control when activated. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control issue in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2001 INFINITI G20?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2001 INFINITI G20, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty cruise control switch is often the first suspect, as it can hinder the system's ability to engage or disengage properly. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the cruise control to function, making it a straightforward issue to check. Vacuum leaks are another critical factor; they can prevent the system from maintaining speed, leading to inconsistent performance. Furthermore, a defective speed sensor may provide inaccurate readings, which can significantly impact how the cruise control operates. It's also essential to examine the brake light switch, as any malfunction here can prevent the cruise control from activating altogether. Lastly, issues with the throttle cable can interfere with speed adjustments, complicating the system's functionality. By systematically diagnosing these potential issues, you can effectively pinpoint the cause of the cruise control failure and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 2001 INFINITI G20?

When evaluating the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control in a 2001 INFINITI G20, it is essential to recognize the potential risks associated with neglecting this issue. While the immediate safety threat may not be apparent, a malfunctioning cruise control system can lead to unexpected speed fluctuations, which could compromise safe driving, particularly on long highway journeys. Additionally, the absence of this feature diminishes driving comfort, making extended trips more taxing and less enjoyable. Beyond these immediate concerns, a faulty cruise control system may signal underlying mechanical problems that, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more significant issues affecting the vehicle's overall performance and reliability. Therefore, while it may not seem critical at first glance, timely repair of the cruise control system is advisable to enhance safety, improve driving comfort, and prevent future mechanical complications.

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