2008 Lexus ES350 Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2008 Lexus ES350 and How to Fix Them

Find Repair Location
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 2008 Lexus ES350 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 2008 Lexus ES350 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 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.

What are the steps to diagnose the cruise control issue in a 2008 Lexus ES350?

To effectively diagnose a cruise control issue in your 2008 Lexus ES350, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate checks. Start by inspecting the cruise control fuse located in the fuse box, as a blown fuse can easily disrupt the system's functionality. Next, examine the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are operational, as malfunctioning buttons can prevent engagement. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, utilize an OBD-II scanner to identify any error codes that may indicate specific problems within the cruise control system. Following this, assess the vehicle speed sensor, which is vital for accurate speed readings; a faulty sensor can hinder the cruise control's performance. Additionally, inspect the brake pedal switch, as it is designed to disengage the cruise control when the brake is applied; any malfunction here can lead to issues. Finally, if the problem persists, examine the cruise control module and test the actuator, as these components are crucial for maintaining speed. By systematically addressing each of these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control issue in your Lexus ES350.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2008 Lexus ES350?

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a 2008 Lexus ES350, it's essential to consider several common problems that may be at play. One of the first areas to check is the brake light switch, as a faulty switch can prevent the cruise control from engaging, since the system is designed to disengage when the brake pedal is pressed. Additionally, a defective speed sensor can disrupt the system's ability to maintain a constant speed, leading to erratic performance or complete failure. It's also wise to inspect the fuses related to the cruise control system, as a blown fuse can halt its operation entirely. Furthermore, vacuum leaks in the engine can affect the necessary vacuum supply for the cruise control to function correctly, so checking for any leaks is crucial. Lastly, the cruise control module itself may be malfunctioning, which could be the root cause of the issue. By systematically examining these components, DIYers can often identify and resolve the problem, restoring the cruise control functionality without the need for professional intervention.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2008 Lexus ES350?

When considering the urgency of fixing a non-functioning cruise control in a 2008 Lexus ES350, it is crucial to recognize the safety risks involved. A malfunctioning cruise control system can lead to erratic speed changes, which may increase the likelihood of accidents, particularly on highways where maintaining a steady speed is essential. Additionally, the convenience factor cannot be overlooked; cruise control significantly enhances the driving experience during long trips by allowing drivers to relax and avoid constant acceleration. Neglecting this issue may not only compromise comfort but could also lead to more severe mechanical problems down the line, resulting in higher repair costs. Therefore, while it may not seem like an immediate emergency, prioritizing the repair of the cruise control system is advisable to ensure both safety and cost-effectiveness in the long run.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.