2006 Kia Spectra5 Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2006 Kia Spectra5 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 2006 Kia Spectra5 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 2006 Kia Spectra5 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.

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.

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.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning cruise control in a 2006 Kia Spectra5?

Addressing a malfunctioning cruise control in a 2006 Kia Spectra5 should not be taken lightly, as neglecting this issue can lead to significant safety risks and discomfort during long drives. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, a malfunctioning cruise control can disrupt your driving experience, especially on extended journeys where maintaining a constant speed is crucial for reducing fatigue. Moreover, the underlying causes of cruise control failure, such as blown fuses or faulty brake switches, can escalate into more severe problems if left unattended. For instance, a defective brake pedal switch not only affects cruise control functionality but can also compromise overall vehicle safety by interfering with braking systems. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and resolve any cruise control issues promptly to ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience, preventing potential complications that could arise from ignoring these symptoms.

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