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.
If the cruise control refuses to turn on at all, the actuator could be at fault. Likewise, if the cruise control stays on but does not maintain a consistent speed, the problem could be a bad actuator. In extreme cases, a malfunctioning actuator could cause the throttle to stick and prevent the vehicle from slowing down. These symptoms may point to a bad actuator. They may also point to other problems with the cruise control and related systems.
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.
A faulty cruise control module will simply result in deactivation of cruise control settings. This is because a detected error in the cruise control system could lead to hazardous driving conditions, so the module will be disabled, and the cruise control system warning light will be displayed. This will be a different message depending on make and model, and a warning light or message may be displayed on the driver instrument cluster.
When troubleshooting cruise control issues in your Mitsubishi Galant, start with the basics to efficiently identify the problem. Begin by checking the power supply to the cruise control system, ensuring that all related fuses are intact and that there is no interruption in power. Next, inspect the steering wheel controls, including the horn, as a malfunctioning horn can indicate broader electrical issues that may affect cruise control functionality. If these components are functioning correctly, turn your attention to the throttle actuation; ensure that the throttle is responding properly, as any issues here can directly impact cruise control performance. Finally, if the problem persists, consider examining the control module, sensors, and switches, as these are common culprits in cruise control failures. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically narrow down the potential causes and restore your cruise control system to working order.
When dealing with cruise control malfunctions in a Mitsubishi Galant, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. One frequent issue is the failure of the control module, sensors, or switches, which can disrupt the system's functionality. Additionally, throttle actuation problems, particularly with the throttle position sensor, can cause the engine computer to misbehave, potentially leading to symptoms like black exhaust. Other culprits include a blown fuse or a defective brake pedal switch, both of which can prevent the cruise control from engaging. In older models, a broken vacuum line may be the source of the problem, while issues with the vehicle speed sensor can affect both the cruise control and the speedometer. By identifying these potential failure modes, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the underlying issues, restoring the cruise control system to proper working order.
When the cruise control in your Mitsubishi Galant fails to operate, it’s crucial to understand the potential underlying issues and the urgency of addressing them. Common problems include a malfunctioning control module, faulty sensors, or issues with the throttle actuation system, all of which can compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Additionally, a defective vehicle speed sensor can not only disrupt cruise control functionality but also affect your speedometer readings, leading to further complications. If your Galant is equipped with an older cruise control system, be aware that a broken vacuum line may also be at fault. Moreover, modifications such as installing LED lights in the tail or stop lights can inadvertently interfere with the cruise control circuit, as it is linked to the brake light system. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more significant issues down the line, including safety risks while driving. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and resolve these problems promptly to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently.
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