2011 Porsche 911 Cruise Control Not Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2011 Porsche 911 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 2011 Porsche 911 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 2011 Porsche 911 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.

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 diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the cruise control issue in a 2011 Porsche 911?

When troubleshooting the cruise control system in a 2011 Porsche 911, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest checks before progressing to more complex assessments. Start by examining the stalk switches, as these are critical for cruise control operation. Use a multimeter to test for voltage changes when the switches are activated, and verify their functionality through the PIWIS 3 system. Next, ensure that the cruise control system is correctly coded and configured within the vehicle's various modules, including the DME and Steering Control Module. This can also be checked using the PIWIS 3 in development mode.

Following this, inspect the brake light switches, as a malfunctioning switch can prevent cruise control from engaging. Ensure that the switches are not permanently actuated and that they function correctly when the brake pedal is pressed. After confirming the switches, check the relevant fuses and wiring for any faults or disconnections, as these can disrupt the cruise control system.

If your model utilizes a vacuum actuator, test its resistance and inspect for any vacuum leaks that could affect performance. Additionally, utilize a diagnostic tool to check for any stored trouble codes that may provide insight into the issue. Finally, conduct a thorough physical inspection of all components related to the cruise control system, ensuring that all connections are secure and that there are no signs of wear or damage. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve cruise control issues in your Porsche 911.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2011 Porsche 911?

When diagnosing cruise control issues in a 2011 Porsche 911, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary suspects is the clutch pedal switch, which must be properly positioned for the cruise control to function. If this switch is faulty or misaligned, it can prevent engagement. Similarly, the brake pedal switch plays a crucial role; a malfunction here can lead to unexpected disengagement or failure to activate the cruise control altogether. Electrical issues are also prevalent, so checking the fuse and relay in the luggage compartment is a good starting point, as a blown fuse or faulty relay can disrupt the system. Additionally, inspect the cruise control module for any signs of damage or poor solder connections, as these can often be repaired with some basic soldering skills. Mechanical components, such as the cruise pedal switch, should also be examined to ensure they are not stuck. Lastly, while less common, issues with the throttle potentiometer or even a faulty third brake light can impact cruise control functionality. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve cruise control issues in their Porsche 911.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2011 Porsche 911?

While a non-functioning cruise control system in a 2011 Porsche 911 may not present an immediate safety risk, it is still important to address the issue promptly to enhance your driving experience. Ignoring this problem can lead to increased driver fatigue during long trips, as the convenience of cruise control is designed to alleviate the strain of constant speed regulation. Additionally, if the cruise control system is malfunctioning, it may indicate underlying issues with related components, such as the brake or clutch switches, which could potentially affect other vehicle functions over time. Therefore, while the urgency may not be critical, taking the time to troubleshoot and repair the cruise control system can prevent further complications and ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

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