2005 Kia Sorento Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2005 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento cruise control isn't working are failed control module, sensor or switch issues, or throttle actuation problems.
  • Sensor: A faulty sensor can lead to incorrect readings, causing issues with engine performance or triggering warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Control Module: A faulty control module can result in 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 acceleration and poor engine 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 Kia Sorento 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 cruise control issue in a 2005 Kia Sorento?

To effectively diagnose the cruise control issue in your 2005 Kia Sorento, start with the simplest checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by examining the check engine light; if it’s illuminated, this could indicate a broader issue affecting the cruise control system. Utilize an OBD2 scan tool to identify any error codes that may provide insight into the problem. Next, inspect the brake switch, as this component is crucial for the cruise control's operation; if the switch is malfunctioning, it may inadvertently cancel the cruise control. Finally, assess the cruise control switch itself, ensuring that all functions—such as turning the system on and off, canceling, and adjusting speed—are operational. By systematically following these steps, you can accurately diagnose the root cause of the cruise control malfunction and take appropriate action to resolve it.

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

Addressing the non-functioning cruise control in a 2005 Kia Sorento is a matter of urgency that should not be overlooked. A malfunctioning cruise control system can significantly compromise your ability to maintain safe speeds, especially during long drives on highways where this feature is typically utilized. Ignoring this issue can lead to dangerous driving situations, as it may limit your control over the vehicle's speed. Furthermore, a faulty cruise control system can have a ripple effect on other vehicle functions, potentially impacting acceleration and the accuracy of your speedometer. This not only detracts from your driving experience but can also lead to more severe mechanical problems if left unaddressed. Common culprits behind cruise control failure include blown fuses, faulty brake switches, and malfunctioning speed sensors, all of which can escalate into more complex issues if not diagnosed and repaired promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the inspection and repair of your cruise control system to ensure your safety and the optimal performance of your vehicle.

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