2009 Volvo V50 Cruise Control Isn't Working

Common Causes of Cruise Control Malfunctions in Your 2009 Volvo V50 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 2009 Volvo V50 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 2009 Volvo V50 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 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 steps to diagnose the non-functioning cruise control in a 2009 Volvo V50?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning cruise control in your 2009 Volvo V50, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the brake switch, as a malfunction here is a common reason for cruise control issues; ensure it is operating correctly. Next, check the clutch switch, even if it appears to be functioning, as it can still impact the cruise control system. After that, verify the main on/off switch for the cruise control, ensuring it is properly engaged. Don’t forget to examine the set/resume switch, which is crucial for maintaining your desired speed. If these components check out, use a code reader to scan for any error codes that might indicate underlying problems. If the issue persists after these checks, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic or a Volvo dealership for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issues affecting your cruise control system.

What are the common problems that could cause the cruise control to stop working in a 2009 Volvo V50?

When dealing with a malfunctioning cruise control system in a 2009 Volvo V50, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One frequent issue is a malfunctioning instrument cluster or a blown fuse, which can disrupt the electrical signals necessary for cruise control operation. Additionally, the brake light switch is a critical component that should be inspected, as it can prevent the cruise control from engaging if it is faulty. Environmental factors, such as extreme heat or bumpy road conditions, may also temporarily affect the system, often resolving after a simple restart of the vehicle. Furthermore, electronic control units can experience issues related to electrical noise or weak signals, which may hinder cruise control functionality. Lastly, if your vehicle is equipped with adaptive cruise control, it may require disabling through the dashboard display to restore standard cruise control operations. By understanding these potential problems, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address the issues affecting their vehicle's cruise control system.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning cruise control in a 2009 Volvo V50?

When considering the urgency of fixing the non-functioning cruise control in your 2009 Volvo V50, it's essential to evaluate how often you rely on this feature during your drives. For those who frequently embark on long highway journeys, the absence of cruise control can lead to increased driver fatigue and discomfort, making it a priority to address. Moreover, if you depend on cruise control to maintain a consistent speed, its malfunction could disrupt your driving experience, particularly during lengthy commutes. Additionally, it's worth noting that cruise control issues may indicate underlying problems within the vehicle's systems, which, if left unresolved, could escalate into more significant complications and costly repairs. Conversely, if your driving primarily consists of short trips in city traffic where cruise control is seldom used, the urgency to fix this feature may be less critical. Ultimately, while the convenience of cruise control is undeniable, assessing your driving habits will help determine how urgently you should address this issue to ensure both comfort and safety on the road.

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2009 Volvo V50 Cruise Control Issues & Repair Costs