2016 Toyota Avalon Cruise Control Not Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2016 Toyota Avalon and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2016 Toyota Avalon 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 2016 Toyota Avalon 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 steps to diagnose the cruise control issue in a 2016 Toyota Avalon?

When diagnosing a cruise control issue in a 2016 Toyota Avalon, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuses related to the cruise control system, as a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality. Next, inspect the brake pedal switch, which is crucial for the system's operation; if this switch is faulty, it may prevent the cruise control from engaging or cause it to disengage unexpectedly. Following this, verify the speed sensor's performance, as it plays a vital role in maintaining the desired speed. If the speed sensor is malfunctioning, it can lead to cruise control failure. Additionally, check for any electrical issues using an OBD-II scanner to identify error codes that may indicate problems within the cruise control system or its components. A visual inspection of mechanical components, such as the vacuum actuator and throttle cable, is also important, especially in older vehicles. Ensure that the main cruise control switch and its associated controls are functioning correctly, as these can also contribute to operational issues. Lastly, if the check engine light is illuminated, it may signal a broader problem affecting the cruise control, necessitating further investigation. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the underlying issues with your vehicle's cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2016 Toyota Avalon?

When dealing with cruise control issues in a 2016 Toyota Avalon, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. One frequent culprit is damaged mechanical or electrical components, such as the vacuum actuator or throttle cable, which can disrupt the cruise control's functionality. Additionally, a blown fuse in the electronic system can lead to a complete shutdown of the cruise control; replacing the fuse is a straightforward fix, but if it blows again, it may signal deeper electrical issues. Another critical component to check is the speed sensor, as a malfunction here can result in inaccurate speed readings, preventing the cruise control from engaging properly. The brake pedal switch also plays a vital role; if it is faulty, the system may mistakenly believe the brake is always pressed, thus disabling cruise control. Lastly, if you notice the cruise control light blinking without the system engaging, this could indicate a malfunction detected by the cruise control computer, warranting further investigation into both electrical and mechanical components. By systematically checking these areas, you can effectively diagnose and address the cruise control problems in your Avalon, potentially saving on repair costs and enhancing your DIY skills.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning cruise control in a 2016 Toyota Avalon?

When dealing with a malfunctioning cruise control in a 2016 Toyota Avalon, urgency is paramount. Ignoring this issue can lead to serious safety risks, as a faulty cruise control system may not disengage when the brake pedal is pressed, potentially resulting in loss of vehicle control. Additionally, the malfunction could be a symptom of underlying problems, such as a defective brake pedal switch or a damaged speed sensor, which can affect other critical systems like stability and traction control. These interconnected issues highlight the necessity of timely intervention; neglecting them could escalate into more significant repairs and safety hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and address the root cause of the malfunction as soon as possible, ensuring both the safety of the driver and the integrity of the vehicle.

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Troubleshooting Cruise Control Issues in 2016 Toyota Avalon