Mercury Milan Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your Mercury Milan 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 Mercury Milan 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 Mercury Milan 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.

Troubleshooting Cruise Control Issues in a Mercury Milan

When troubleshooting cruise control issues in a Mercury Milan, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, inspect the brake lights; a malfunctioning brake light can cause the cruise control to disengage, so ensuring they are operational is crucial. Next, examine the brake switch, as a faulty switch can also disrupt the cruise control functionality. If these components are functioning correctly, consider any engine-related issues that may trigger the check engine light, as these can interfere with the cruise control system. Additionally, be aware of altitude sensitivity, which can affect performance at higher elevations. Finally, if previous repairs have been made to components like the brake light switch or cruise control assembly, verify their installation and functionality. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve cruise control issues in your Mercury Milan.

What Could Cause the Cruise Control to Malfunction in a Mercury Milan?

When dealing with cruise control malfunctions in a Mercury Milan, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be causing the issue. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality. Additionally, the brake pedal switch is another frequent culprit; if it’s defective, it may prevent the cruise control from engaging properly. Beyond these, issues with the throttle control system or the anti-lock braking system (ABS) can also lead to malfunctions, as they are integral to the vehicle's overall operation. In older models, a broken vacuum line might be the source of the problem, affecting the cruise control's ability to maintain speed. Specific to the Mercury Milan, there have been reports of failures in the Control Module, various sensors, and throttle components, which can all contribute to the cruise control system's unreliability. Furthermore, instances where the cruise control unexpectedly turns off can indicate deeper issues that require thorough diagnostics. By systematically checking these components, you can identify and address the root cause of the cruise control malfunction, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

Why is the Cruise Control Not Working in a Mercury Milan?

When the cruise control in your Mercury Milan fails, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring symptoms such as the system not engaging or shutting off unexpectedly can lead to dangerous driving situations, especially during long trips where maintaining speed is essential. Common culprits include a malfunctioning control module, faulty sensors, or issues with the throttle actuation system. Additionally, problems with the brake light switch or speed sensor can prevent the cruise control from functioning correctly, potentially leading to erratic behavior that could distract or confuse the driver. If left unresolved, these issues may not only compromise your driving experience but could also result in more significant repairs down the line. Therefore, diagnosing the specific cause of the malfunction is vital for restoring the cruise control system and ensuring safe vehicle operation.

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