1993 Lincoln Town Car Cruise Control Isn't Working

Fixing Cruise Control Issues in the 1993 Lincoln Town Car

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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 1993 Lincoln Town Car 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 1993 Lincoln Town Car 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.

What are the steps to diagnose the cruise control issue in a 1993 Lincoln Town Car?

To effectively diagnose a cruise control issue in a 1993 Lincoln Town Car, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest potential problems before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can disrupt functionality. Next, inspect the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are operational; faulty buttons can prevent the system from engaging. Following this, examine the vacuum lines for any signs of leaks or damage, as these are crucial for the proper operation of the cruise control. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, use a diagnostic tool to test the cruise control module for errors, as a malfunctioning module can be a significant culprit. Additionally, verify the speed sensor's functionality, since a defective sensor can hinder the system's ability to maintain speed. It's also important to check the brake and clutch switches, as defective switches can disable the cruise control for safety reasons. Finally, scanning for error codes with an OBD-II scanner can provide further insights into any underlying issues. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the root cause of the cruise control problem in your Lincoln Town Car.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1993 Lincoln Town Car?

When dealing with cruise control issues in a 1993 Lincoln Town Car, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. One of the first things to check is the vehicle's fuse box, as a blown fuse can easily disrupt the cruise control system's operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the cruise control switch located on the steering wheel; a faulty switch can prevent the system from engaging altogether. Additionally, vacuum leaks in the system can hinder the cruise control's ability to maintain speed, so examining the vacuum lines for any signs of wear or damage is crucial. Another potential culprit is the speed sensor; if it is defective, it may not relay accurate speed information to the cruise control system, leading to malfunction. Lastly, issues with the brake light switch can also interfere with the cruise control's functionality, as it needs to disengage when the brakes are applied. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the cruise control problems in their Lincoln Town Car.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control on a 1993 Lincoln Town Car?

When evaluating the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control on a 1993 Lincoln Town Car, it's essential to weigh the implications of neglecting this feature. While cruise control is primarily a convenience rather than a safety necessity, its absence can lead to driver fatigue, especially during long trips. If you find yourself frequently distracted by the need to maintain speed manually, addressing the issue sooner can enhance your overall driving experience. Additionally, if you plan to sell the vehicle, having all features operational, including cruise control, can positively impact its resale value. Therefore, while the repair may not be critical for immediate safety, considering the comfort it provides and the potential financial benefits makes it a worthwhile endeavor to tackle sooner rather than later.

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1993 Lincoln Town Car Cruise Control Issues & Repair Costs