2004 Land Rover Discovery Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2004 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
0%
25% chance it's the
Throttle
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2004 Land Rover Discovery 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 2004 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 initial diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the non-functioning cruise control in a 2004 Land Rover Discovery?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning cruise control in a 2004 Land Rover Discovery, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest checks before progressing to more complex issues. Start by ensuring that the cruise control system is enabled in the vehicle's settings, as some models require activation through a diagnostic tool. Next, check the dashboard indicators; the cruise control light should illuminate when the system is engaged. If it doesn’t, this could indicate a problem with the switch or wiring. Additionally, confirm that you are driving at the minimum required speed and in the correct gear, as these conditions are necessary for the cruise control to function. Moving on, inspect the electrical connections and fuses related to the cruise control system, as blown fuses or faulty connections can disrupt functionality. If your model utilizes a vacuum system, examine the vacuum hoses for any signs of damage and ensure the vacuum pump is operational. It's also crucial to check the brake and clutch switches, as malfunctioning switches can disable the cruise control. For a more in-depth analysis, perform voltage and resistance checks on the cruise control ECU harness, and utilize an OBDII diagnostic tool to identify any error codes that may point to specific issues. Finally, ensure that the Set/Reset controls on the steering wheel are functioning properly, as any failure here could also indicate underlying wiring problems. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control issue in your Land Rover Discovery.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2004 Land Rover Discovery?

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a 2004 Land Rover Discovery, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise within the system. One of the primary culprits is the vacuum system, where cracked or damaged vacuum lines can disrupt functionality, particularly those linked to the brake pedal and actuator. Additionally, the electrical system plays a crucial role; checking the cruise control fuse and ensuring all connections are intact can help identify potential faults. The brake and clutch switches are also vital, as they must operate correctly to disengage the cruise control when necessary. Furthermore, incorrect readings from the low range switch or gearshift position can interfere with the system's operation. It's also important to assess the Cruise Control ECU and its wiring for any faults, as well as to verify the functionality of the vacuum pump and actuator bulb. By methodically examining these areas, DIY enthusiasts can effectively diagnose and address the issues affecting the cruise control system in their vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control on a 2004 Land Rover Discovery?

When considering the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control on a 2004 Land Rover Discovery, it's essential to evaluate the potential consequences of neglecting the issue. While the cruise control system itself may not be critical for immediate safety, the underlying causes of its malfunction can lead to significant problems if left unaddressed. For instance, if the failure is due to a cracked vacuum line, this could affect other vital systems in the vehicle, potentially leading to more severe mechanical issues. Additionally, if the malfunction is linked to components like the Throttle Position Sensor or wastegate solenoid, it could result in erratic engine behavior, which poses a safety risk during driving. Therefore, while minor issues may not require immediate action, it is advisable to diagnose and repair any underlying problems promptly to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety on the road. Addressing these concerns not only enhances your driving experience but also prevents costly repairs down the line, making it a wise decision for any DIY enthusiast.

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2004 Land Rover Discovery Cruise Control Issues & Repairs