1994 Mercury Grand Marquis Cruise Control Isn't Working

Fixing Cruise Control Issues in 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis

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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 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 initial steps to diagnose the non-functional cruise control in a 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis?

To effectively diagnose the non-functional cruise control in a 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis, start with the simplest checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the cruise control system; a blown fuse is a common culprit that can easily be replaced. Next, examine the cruise control switch for any visible damage or wear, as a malfunctioning switch can prevent the system from engaging. It's also essential to check the vacuum lines for leaks or damage, as these are critical for the proper operation of the cruise control. Additionally, ensure that the brake pedal switch is functioning correctly, since this switch disengages the cruise control when the brakes are applied. Finally, if the issue persists, using a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide valuable insights into any underlying problems. By following these steps, you can systematically identify and address the issues affecting your cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the entire system, so inspecting and replacing it if necessary is a straightforward first step. Next, the brake pedal switch should be examined, as a malfunction here may prevent the cruise control from disengaging when the brakes are applied, posing a safety risk. Additionally, the speed sensor plays a crucial role in relaying the vehicle's speed to the cruise control system, and any defects in this component can lead to erratic behavior or complete failure of the system. It's also important to inspect for vacuum leaks, as these can compromise the vacuum pressure needed for the cruise control to function effectively. Lastly, the cruise control module itself may be faulty, which could prevent the system from engaging or disengaging properly. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can often identify and resolve the issues affecting their cruise control system, restoring functionality without the need for professional assistance.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis?

Repairing the non-functioning cruise control in a 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis should be considered a priority, albeit not an immediate emergency. The absence of cruise control can compromise safety by increasing driver fatigue and distraction, particularly during long drives where maintaining a consistent speed is crucial. This can lead to a higher risk of accidents as the driver may become overwhelmed with constant speed adjustments. Additionally, the comfort of driving is significantly impacted; without cruise control, long-distance travel can become tedious and uncomfortable, detracting from the overall driving experience. Furthermore, a properly functioning cruise control system can enhance fuel efficiency by stabilizing speed, which is especially beneficial on highways. Fluctuations in speed without cruise control can lead to increased fuel consumption, ultimately costing more in the long run. Therefore, while it may not pose an immediate threat like brake failure, addressing the cruise control issue promptly is essential for ensuring a safer, more comfortable, and economical driving experience.

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1994 Mercury Grand Marquis Cruise Control Issues & Repairs