Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Principles of Operation
The speed control system is controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM). The speed control system is designed to maintain a selected vehicle speed between 48 and 200 km/h (30 and 124 mph). The speed control system is controlled by the steering wheel mounted switch(es) (ON, OFF, SET/ACCEL, COAST, RESUME), and the brake pedal switches (stoplamp and speed control deactivator switches). The steering wheel mounted switch(es) are hardwired to the PCM through the clockspring.
The speed control functions include:
- Turn on the speed control system.
- Set and maintain the desired vehicle speed.
- Accelerate the vehicle to a higher speed.
- Decelerate down to a lower speed.
- Tap-up/tap-down the vehicle speed.
- Resume the prior vehicle speed.
- Turn off the vehicle speed control system.
Pressing and releasing the ON switch turns the speed control system on. Pressing and releasing the SET/ACCEL or COAST switch while the vehicle is traveling at the desired speed activates the speed control system.
Tapping the SET/ACCEL or the COAST switch while in the set mode respectively, increases or decreases the maintained vehicle speed by 1.6 km/h (1 mph) per tap. If the respective button is pressed and held, the vehicle speed continues to accelerate or decelerate until the button is released.
Pressing and releasing the OFF switch, or turning the ignition switch to the OFF position, turns the speed control system off. Pressing the brake pedal puts the speed control system into the STANDBY mode. Pressing the RESUME button, when the speed control system is in the STANDBY mode causes the vehicle to accelerate to the last set speed. Resume does not function if the OFF button is pressed, the ignition switch is in the OFF position, or if the current vehicle speed is below the minimum operational speed.
Whenever the speed control system is engaged and active, a speed control icon on the instrument cluster is illuminated.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.