2007 Mercury Monterey Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2007 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 2007 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 2007 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 initial steps to diagnose the cruise control issue in a 2007 Mercury Monterey?

To effectively diagnose the cruise control issue in your 2007 Mercury Monterey, begin with the simplest solutions. Start by checking the cruise control fuse; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the system's functionality. Next, inspect the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel to ensure they are operational, as faulty buttons can lead to system malfunctions. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, utilize a diagnostic scanner to identify any error codes from the vehicle's onboard computer, which can provide insights into underlying problems. Additionally, examine the vacuum lines for any leaks or damage, as these can significantly impact the system's ability to maintain speed. Finally, test the cruise control module to confirm it is functioning correctly, as a malfunctioning module may be the root cause of the issue. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the cruise control problem in your vehicle.

What are the common issues that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2007 Mercury Monterey?

When dealing with cruise control issues in a 2007 Mercury Monterey, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. One frequent culprit is a faulty brake pedal switch, which can prevent the cruise control from engaging or cause it to disengage unexpectedly. Additionally, a defective speed sensor can disrupt the system's ability to maintain a constant speed, leading to erratic performance. Another potential issue is a blown fuse within the cruise control system, which can completely disable its functionality. Vacuum leaks are also a concern, as they can interfere with the system's ability to maintain speed control effectively. Lastly, a malfunctioning cruise control module may be at fault, resulting in the system not operating as intended. By identifying these common issues, DIYers can take the necessary steps to diagnose and resolve cruise control problems, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning cruise control in a 2007 Mercury Monterey?

When evaluating the urgency of repairing the non-functioning cruise control in a 2007 Mercury Monterey, it's essential to recognize that while this feature enhances driving comfort and efficiency, it does not pose an immediate safety risk like malfunctioning brakes or airbags. The cruise control system primarily serves to reduce driver fatigue on long journeys, making it a valuable convenience rather than a critical necessity. However, neglecting to address this issue could lead to further complications, such as potential strain on other vehicle systems or the development of more significant electrical problems. Therefore, while it may not require immediate attention, it is advisable to schedule a repair at your earliest convenience to restore the functionality of this feature and ensure a more enjoyable driving experience. By doing so, you can prevent any minor issues from escalating into more costly repairs down the line.

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