2005 Mercury Monterey Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2005 Mercury Monterey and How to Fix Them

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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 2005 Mercury Monterey 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 2005 Mercury Monterey 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.

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 non-functioning cruise control in a 2005 Mercury Monterey?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning cruise control in your 2005 Mercury Monterey, start with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate assessments. Begin by checking the cruise control fuse, as a blown fuse can easily disrupt the system's functionality. If the fuse is intact, inspect the cruise control switch located on the steering wheel; a malfunctioning switch may prevent the system from engaging. Next, examine the brake pedal switch, which is designed to deactivate the cruise control when the brake is pressed; ensure it is operating correctly to avoid premature disengagement. The vehicle speed sensor is another critical component, so verify that it is sending accurate speed data to the cruise control module. Finally, if the issue persists, utilize a diagnostic scanner to check for any error codes that could indicate underlying problems. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the root cause of your cruise control issues.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2005 Mercury Monterey?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2005 Mercury Monterey, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting its functionality. One of the primary culprits is a faulty cruise control switch, which can hinder the system from engaging or disengaging as intended. Additionally, a blown fuse within the cruise control circuit can lead to a complete failure of the system, making it crucial to check the fuses first. Another potential issue is vacuum leaks, which can disrupt the operation of the cruise control by affecting the pressure needed for it to function correctly. The speed sensor also plays a vital role; if it is defective, the cruise control may struggle to maintain a consistent speed. Furthermore, problems with the brake light switch can prevent the cruise control from activating, as the system is designed to disengage when the brakes are applied. Lastly, a malfunctioning throttle cable can interfere with the cruise control's ability to adjust the vehicle's speed accurately. By systematically examining these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the issues causing the cruise control to stop working in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 2005 Mercury Monterey?

While the non-functioning cruise control in your 2005 Mercury Monterey may not seem like an urgent repair, it is important to consider how it impacts your overall driving experience. Cruise control enhances comfort during long drives, allowing you to maintain a steady speed without constant pedal pressure, which can reduce fatigue on extended trips. Although the lack of cruise control does not compromise the vehicle's basic safety or functionality, neglecting the repair could lead to further complications down the line, such as electrical issues or more extensive system failures. Therefore, if you rely on cruise control for your driving comfort, it is advisable to address the repair sooner rather than later to ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free driving experience.

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