1998 Toyota T100 Cruise Control Isn't Working

Diagnosing Common Issues with the Cruise Control System in Your 1998 Toyota T100 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 1998 Toyota T100 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 1998 Toyota T100 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.

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.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to troubleshoot the non-functional cruise control in a 1998 Toyota T100?

When troubleshooting the non-functional cruise control in a 1998 Toyota T100, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the cruise control system, as a blown fuse can often be the simplest issue to resolve. Next, inspect the wiring for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections, as these can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the system to operate. After ensuring the wiring is intact, test the cruise control switch itself; a malfunctioning switch may require replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, examine the vacuum lines, which are crucial in older vehicles like the T100, for any leaks or damage that could hinder the system's performance. Finally, if the problem persists, utilize a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes that may provide further insight into the underlying issues. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the cruise control problem in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 1998 Toyota T100?

When dealing with cruise control issues in a 1998 Toyota T100, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the cruise control system; a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality, and replacing it is a straightforward fix. Additionally, the cruise control switch itself may be faulty, preventing the system from engaging properly, which would require replacement to restore operation. Another critical area to inspect is the vacuum lines, as any leaks can significantly affect the system's performance. If the cruise control still fails to work, the speed sensor could be malfunctioning, necessitating its replacement. Lastly, don’t overlook the brake light switch; issues here can cause the cruise control to disengage unexpectedly, so ensuring it is functioning correctly is vital. By systematically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve cruise control issues in your Toyota T100.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 1998 Toyota T100?

When it comes to the non-functioning cruise control in your 1998 Toyota T100, understanding the urgency of the issue is crucial for both safety and driving comfort. While a malfunctioning cruise control system may not present an immediate safety hazard like brake or steering issues, it can significantly affect your driving experience, especially during long trips. The convenience of maintaining a steady speed without constant manual input is invaluable on highways, and neglecting this problem can lead to increased driver fatigue and discomfort. Moreover, allowing the issue to persist may result in further complications or damage to the cruise control system, potentially leading to more costly repairs down the line. Therefore, while it may not be the top priority compared to other critical vehicle functions, addressing the non-functioning cruise control promptly is advisable to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

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