2005 Jeep Liberty Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2005 Jeep Liberty and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2005 Jeep Liberty 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 2005 Jeep Liberty 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 2005 Jeep Liberty?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning cruise control in your 2005 Jeep Liberty, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. Next, examine the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are operational, since faulty buttons can hinder engagement. Following this, verify the speed sensor's functionality, as a malfunction here can disrupt the entire cruise control system. It's also crucial to inspect the vacuum lines for any leaks or blockages, as these can significantly impact performance. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, utilize a diagnostic scanner to identify any error codes that may provide insight into the problem. Finally, if all else fails, test the cruise control module itself, as a defective module could be the root cause of the malfunction. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issues affecting your cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2005 Jeep Liberty?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2005 Jeep Liberty, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty brake light switch, which is crucial for the cruise control's operation; if this switch fails, it may prevent the system from engaging, as it is designed to deactivate when the brake pedal is pressed. Another potential issue is a defective speed sensor, which can disrupt the system's ability to maintain a steady speed, leading to erratic performance. Additionally, a blown fuse in the vehicle's electrical system can cause the cruise control to malfunction, so checking the fuses is a good first step. Vacuum leaks in the engine can also impact the cruise control's functionality, as they can lead to a loss of the necessary vacuum pressure. Lastly, a malfunctioning cruise control module may be the reason behind the system's failure to operate correctly. By systematically examining these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control issues in your Jeep Liberty.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2005 Jeep Liberty?

When it comes to the non-functioning cruise control in your 2005 Jeep Liberty, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for both your comfort and safety on the road. While a malfunctioning cruise control system may not pose an immediate threat to the vehicle's drivability, it can lead to significant driver frustration, especially during long trips where maintaining a steady speed is essential. Ignoring this issue could also mask underlying mechanical or electrical problems that may worsen over time, potentially leading to more costly repairs down the line. Moreover, ensuring that all vehicle systems, including cruise control, are functioning properly contributes to overall road safety, not just for you but for other drivers as well. Therefore, while it may not be an emergency, addressing the cruise control issue promptly is advisable to enhance your driving experience and prevent future complications.

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