2003 Land Rover Discovery Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2003 Land Rover Discovery 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
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25% chance it's the
Throttle
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2003 Land Rover Discovery 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.

What are the best Land Rover repair shops?

RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2003 Land Rover Discovery electronics and electrical issues. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.
26 Certified Locations
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Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center - Grandview

4.7
(85)
2.39 mi
1524 W 5th Ave
Columbus, OH
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Closes 5:00 PM
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Excite Auto Repair & Towing

4.4
(15)
5.94 mi
3430 Westerville Road
Columbus, OH
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Closes 6:00 PM
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All In Auto Service

4.9
(25)
6.56 mi
5200 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH
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Closes 6:00 PM
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Tuffy Tire & Auto Service - Grove City

4.4
(520)
6.67 mi
2131 Stringtown Rd
Grove City, OH
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Closes 6:00 PM
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How much does it cost to fix a 2003 Land Rover Discovery 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.

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 first steps to diagnose cruise control issues in a 2003 Land Rover Discovery?

When diagnosing cruise control issues in a 2003 Land Rover Discovery, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by checking for vacuum leaks, as these are often the simplest and most common culprits behind cruise control malfunctions. Inspect the vacuum lines for any signs of wear or damage, as even small cracks can disrupt the system's functionality. Next, turn your attention to the control module, sensor, and switch, which are critical components of the cruise control system. Ensure that these parts are operating correctly, as a failure in any of them can prevent the cruise control from engaging. Following this, verify the throttle actuation; the throttle must respond accurately to commands from the cruise control system for it to function properly. Additionally, check the adjustment of the throttle and cruise control cables, as improper settings can lead to operational issues. Finally, perform a main voltage test to confirm that the cruise control system is receiving adequate power, as electrical problems can also hinder performance. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve cruise control issues in your vehicle.

What common issues cause cruise control failure in a 2003 Land Rover Discovery?

When troubleshooting cruise control failure in a 2003 Land Rover Discovery, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting the system. One of the primary issues often lies within the control module, sensors, or switches, which can fail and disrupt the cruise control functionality. Additionally, throttle actuation problems may arise, preventing the system from engaging properly. It's also crucial to inspect the vacuum hoses for any cracks or leaks, as these can significantly hinder the cruise control's operation. Thoroughly checking the cruise control hosing for similar issues is advisable, as air leaks can lead to malfunction. Corrosion in the connectors of the TCCM module, typically located behind the battery, can also contribute to cruise control problems. Furthermore, a faulty brake switch or brake lights can trigger warning lights on the dashboard, impacting the cruise control's performance. To resolve these issues, consider replacing any damaged vacuum lines connected to the cruise control system, including the main line from the module to the actuator and the smaller lines attached to the module. By systematically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively diagnose and repair cruise control failures in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control on a 2003 Land Rover Discovery?

While the non-functioning cruise control on a 2003 Land Rover Discovery may not seem like an immediate concern, it is important to recognize that neglecting this issue could lead to more significant problems down the line. The cruise control system relies on various sensors and electrical components that, if malfunctioning, might indicate underlying issues within the vehicle's electrical system. Ignoring these symptoms could not only compromise your driving comfort but also pose safety risks, especially if the malfunction is related to critical systems. Therefore, it is advisable to have the cruise control diagnosed and repaired promptly to ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition and to prevent potential complications that could arise from unresolved electrical issues. Taking action sooner rather than later can save you from more extensive repairs and enhance your overall driving experience.

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