Toyota Highlander Cruise Control Not Working: How to Fix

The cruise control system is a big plus in any vehicle and if it fails, you’d have to put in some extra work to keep your vehicle moving at a constant speed. However, a Toyota Highlander cruise control failure goes beyond a driving problem and could signify something even more serious.

There are a few reasons why your cruise control system would stop working and there are a handful of fixes that can fix the problem. This article covers some of the common possible causes and the right fixes that should be applied.

toyota highlander cruise control not working

But before we dive right into the causes and fixes, we’d take a look at how the cruise control system works.

How the Cruise Control System Works

Toyota highlander cruise control not working: causes, replace the faulty brake pedal switch, replace the speed sensor, check for a blown fuse, replace or fix the vacuum actuator, final thoughts.

The cruise control system setup would depend on the vehicle’s make. In modern vehicles, it makes use of a fully electronic setup which is controlled by the vehicle’s ECU (electronic control unit).

In older vehicles, it could be controlled by a vacuum actuator that is physically connected to a chain or cable. The adjustment of the cable will increase or decrease the throttle position based on the actions of the actuator. This system is called electromechanical cruise control.

Your mechanic will tell you which kind of system your cruise control is based on.

  • Faulty Brake Pedal Switch
  • Damaged Speed Sensor
  • Damaged Mechanical Components

The cruise control system is wired to the brake pedal switch and is meant to disengage whenever the brake pedal is pressed. If the brake pedal switch stays engaged or fails, the cruise control system will remain off.

This fix would require you to replace the brake pedal switch, however, it could require more than that. You may also have to check the wiring connected to the switch for signs of damage.

To get this fixed, you should have your mechanic examine the switch for any signs of damage. The mechanic should also inspect the wires connected to the switch for any damage and change them if necessary. The switch should also be replaced and then the mechanic would confirm it the problem has been solved and the cruise control system working properly.

The speed sensor is also connected to the cruise control system. It if fails, the cruise control system may stop working along with the speedometer and you may notice that your engine would have more difficulty when idling.

Your mechanic would have to examine the speed sensor and its surrounding wires for any signs of damage. If so, the mechanic will have to replace the sensor. If there are any problems with the wires connected to the sensor to the speedometer and the cruise control switches, they would have to be replaced too. This should fix the problem and get the cruise control system working as normal.

The cruise control system is protected by a fuse which prevents it from being damaged due to over-current or a short circuit. If the corresponding fuse for the cruise control system has blown, then the system would stop working.

This fix wouldn’t require a mechanic but if you’re not used to car repairs, then you should leave it to the professionals. All that would be required is to check for the corresponding fuse for the cruise control to see if it has blown. It should be easy to tell if the fuse has blown or failed. If it has, then it should be replaced. When replacing a blown fuse with a new one, only go for those rated for the correct amperage.

If this fix proves too hard for you to perform, then you should drive your car to your mechanic and explain this. Your mechanic should be able to get things done quickly and you won’t have to spend too much on it.

If you’re driving an older model, then your cruise control system probably makes use of a vacuum actuator. This system features a vacuum actuator and a cable connected to the vehicle’s throttle. Together they work to maintain the speed of the vehicle and keep you at a certain distance behind the vehicle in front of you.

If the vacuum actuator fails or there is damage to the hoses, then the cruise control system would stop working. Also, there may be problems with the cable connecting the actuator to the throttle. The cable could be broken.

The vacuum actuator, the hoses, and the cable would have to be checked to ensure they’re in perfect working condition if they’re okay, then the actuator may have to be replaced.

Whenever your mechanic performs a fix and confirms that the cruise control system is in order, you should take it for a test drive to confirm it yourself. With that done, the mechanic will use their code reader to clear any trouble codes that may have been produced when the cruise control system failed.

While you could perform some of these fixes on your own, it is best to get a mechanic on the job. A cruise control failure could be a signal that your car is about to develop a fault in its other components. Your mechanic may also inspect other systems like the brake lights and speedometer to check for faults and make the necessary repairs.

While the cruise control system makes driving on the highway more convenient, it is important to keep an eye on the cruise control system as a sudden failure could be dangerous. If you notice that the cruise control system is failing or stopped working altogether, get a mechanic to check it out immediately.

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5 Reasons Why Your Cruise Control Stopped Working

Magnus Sellén

  • Updated: March 15, 2023

Cruise Control Not Working

It would be difficult to find a vehicle on the road today without cruise control. This invaluable feature makes driving long distances easier but can also cause trouble when it malfunctions. Understanding the reasons your cruise control stopped working ensures that you can get the problem fixed quickly for a more enjoyable ride. 

While this fault can cause issues with the cruise control system itself, there could also be an effect on the acceleration of your vehicle. That’s why you want to have it looked at as soon as you notice a problem. Let’s take a quick look at the reasons your cruise control may have stopped working.

Reasons Why Your Cruise Control Stopped Working

The most common reason a cruise control stops working is due to a blown fuse or a defective brake pedal switch . It can also be caused by issues with the throttle control system or the ABS. In older cruise control systems, it can be caused by a broken vacuum line.

Here is a more detailed list of the possible reasons your cruise control is not working:

1. Blown Fuse

broken fuse

All electrical systems in the vehicle are controlled by fuses. Your cruise control system is attached to a fuse that can blow if there is a short circuit or fault. Without a good fuse, the cruise control system can’t work at all.

Thankfully, it’s not difficult to find and replace a blown fuse. Look in the owner’s manual to find the fuse that corresponds with the cruise control technology. 

2. Defective Brake Pedal Switch

push brake pedal

The brake pedal switch is responsible for turning the brake lights on and off based on the pedal position. Cruise control systems are designed to disengage whenever your brake pedal gets pressed. 

Because the cruise control is wired into the brake pedal switch, any fault can cause it to stop working. When the brake pedal switch malfunctions, the car believes the brakes are engaged, causing the system to turn off automatically. Not only that, but your car’s brake light might also be stuck on, leaving confused drivers in your wake. 

3. Malfunctioning Speed Sensor

abs sensor close

Speed sensors are located on every wheel or differential. The purpose of these sensors is to monitor the speed of the wheels to determine if traction control is needed. 

The speed sensors are also part of the cruise control system. When a sensor fails, the cruise control can stop working and the speedometer might act strange as well. 

If there is an issue with a speed sensor, it will often show with an ABS warning light or a check engine light on the dashboard.

RELATED: 3 Symptoms of a Bad ABS Wheel Speed Sensor

4. Electrical Issues

cruise control buttons

The cruise control system is electronic, with many components working together to make the system operate. If the cruise control fails to work, you want to check the wiring harness and associated connectors for a fault.

You also need to ensure that the voltage source is supplying enough power to the system. Even the smallest fault can cause defects with the cruise control. In many cases, there can be an issue with the cruise control lever or buttons causing the cruise control to not engage.

If your cruise control buttons are located on the steering wheel it could also be caused by a bad clock spring, which is located behind the steering wheel.

Check the system with an OBD2 scanner to look for any trouble codes related to the cruise control.

RELATED: 5 Symptoms of a Broken Clock Spring, Location & Replacement Cost

5. Damaged Vacuum Actuator, Hoses or Cable (Older cruise control)

If you drive an older vehicle with cruise control, you might have an issue with the vacuum actuator or the cable that connects to the throttle. If there has been damage done to the vacuum hoses or the actuator, the cruise control will stop working altogether.

Additionally, the cable linking the actuator to the throttle must be in good shape. If it has been broken, the cruise control will fail. 

What is Cruise Control?

Cruise control is a feature that is used when you are traveling at a consistent speed. Cruise control was first introduced for automobiles in the 1950s. However, it took many years before it became a staple in the modern vehicle.

This electrical system allows you to set a predetermined speed and take your foot off of the gas pedal. If you are on a long drive, there is less fatigue because you don’t have to try to maintain your speed. Cruise control can also benefit fuel economy because the vehicle uses less fuel when traveling steadily. 

In newer cars, you might be able to find adaptive cruise control , which is a smart technology. Adaptive cruise control allows you to travel at a predetermined speed, but it also helps to maintain a safe distance from the vehicles in front of you with the help of sensors. With conventional cruise control, you need to take over when the car in front of you slows down, but that’s not the case with adaptive cruise control. 

There are also vehicles nowadays with not only cruise control, but fully self-driving vehicles . We will most likely see much more of this in the future.

Cruise Control Repair Cost

The cost to repair your cruise control system depends on what caused it to fail. If you need to replace a cruise control or brake switch, you might spend between $125 and $350, including parts and labor. However, the cost to change a fuse is only a few dollars and you can perform the replacement yourself in just a matter of seconds. 

On the other hand, when something major fails, such as the actuator, you could be looking at a much higher repair bill. In some vehicles, the cost to replace a cruise control actuator can cost more than $700. These costs rise if you drive a luxury vehicle or one that is difficult to get parts for. 

It might not seem immediately important for you to fix the broken cruise control, but this defective system can affect other performance aspects. You could start to notice issues with acceleration or have trouble with the speedometer. To play it safe, it’s always best to have the cruise control repaired as soon as you notice a problem.

Is there a fuse for the cruise control?

Yes. If the cruise control is installed from the factory, you should check your car’s owner’s manual for the fuse location. If it’s an aftermarket cruise control, you’ll need to follow the wires to find the fuse.

Does the brake switch affect the cruise control system?

Yes. The brake switch affects the cruise control system. The brake switch sends a signal to the cruise control system to let it know when the brakes are being applied for the engine to know when it should stop accelerating.

Will the cruise control work if the check engine light is on?

The cruise control function will be disabled when the check engine light is on in most car models, even if the cause of the check engine light is not the cruise control itself. This is mainly due to safety reasons.

Can a vacuum leak affect cruise control?

Older vehicles use vacuum to control the throttle for the cruise control, and in this case a vacuum leak can heavily affect the cruise control. However, modern cruise controls are fully electric and in most cases will not be affected by a vacuum leak if the check engine light is not illuminated.

Although many people may think that the cruise control system is unimportant and not worth spending money to repair, the problem can be caused by a faulty part that will affect the engine’s performance or durability. Therefore, it is best not to ignore the problem if your cruise control is not working without first diagnosing the car properly.

If your cruise control still isn’t working after trying all the tips in this article, it’s probably time to take it in for a professional opinion from a mechanic. It may be a more serious problem that requires replacement parts or repairs. In the meantime, drive safe and enjoy the open road!

Learn more:

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How do I operate the adaptive cruise control in my vehicle?

Adaptive cruise control supplements conventional cruise control with an active vehicle-to-vehicle distance control feature. designed for use on freeways and express ways, in vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, your car automatically acceler... sep 24, 2022 • knowledge, new section, only answer.

Adaptive cruise control supplements conventional cruise control with an active vehicle-to-vehicle distance control feature. Designed for use on freeways and express ways, in vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, your car automatically accelerates or decelerates in order to maintain a preset following distance from the vehicle traveling directly ahead of you.

To activate the system, press the "ON/OFF" button at the end of the stalk on the lower end of the right side of the steering wheel. The radar-ready indicator will appear in the Multi Information Display.

Accelerate or decelerate to your intended speed, then press the stalk down to set it. If you want to go faster, push the stalk upward and hold until you've reached the desired speed and then release it. Or, if you want to slow down, push the stalk down and hold as you decelerate, then release it once you've reached the desired speed.

To cancel cruise control, tap the brakes, pull the stalk towards you or turn the system off with the ON/OFF button.

Adaptive Cruise Control was designed to maintain the preset distance between your car and the car driving in the same lane directly ahead of you.

When it’s active, it automatically adjusts for changes in the speed of the vehicle traveling directly ahead of you in order to maintain the vehicle-to-vehicle distance you set.

In the event that you would like to change the preset distance between vehicles, you can do so by using the radar range button located on the lower right side of the steering wheel. Simply press the button repeatedly to cycle through the ranges available. You'll find them displayed on the Multi Information Display. And finally, you can disable the distance holding feature by pushing the cruise control stalk away and holding it until the indicator disappears and the conventional cruise control indicator lights up.

Please click here  to view a video.

Disclaimer: Adaptive Cruise Control is designed to assist the driver and is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving practices. See your  Owner's Manual for important instructions and cautions.

Not all features are available on all vehicles and model grades. Please see your Owner's Manual for further details and important safety information.

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toyota highlander cruise control not working

Toyota Grand Highlander vs Volkswagen Atlas Comparison

It's the battle of the big SUVs here-two of the biggest, in fact.

It's true: outside of the body-on-frame behemoths, not much is larger than the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander and Volkswagen Atlas. For those who need to haul six or seven people in relative comfort-and are deathly allergic to minivans-these are two of the best. The Toyota is all-new this year, addressing the most common criticism of the non-Grand Highlander: a tight way-back. Meanwhile the Atlas saw a substantial refresh, upping quality while trimming the powertrain options.

Which three-row SUV is the better family hauler option? Managing editor Mike Schlee and I spent a week with both to find out.

Interior and Cargo Space

Toyota Grand Highlander: The Grand Highlander takes cues from the recently introduced Crown for its top-level cabin design-blending them in, naturally, with a heavy dose of existing Highlander. Toyota has skipped the metallic support on the passenger side, which drops the dashboard height for better visibility. A scooped-out center console feels substantial, and not just because there's a tiny shifter-something these two share. The Grand keeps the useful passenger-side storage slot, but lacks a pass-through center console like the more functional Atlas. The Platinum brings in a handful of smart bronze highlights, however.

The first two rows are incredibly comfortable, happily fitting adults and swaddling them with heated and ventilated thrones. The front bottom cushions are flatter than those in the VW, which could give the German the edge for longer-legged folks. Meanwhile, the Toyota has all-leather armrests for its second-row captain's chairs. Fancy.

While much has been made about the Grand Highlander's third row, it's not as spacious as the Atlas'. There's less leg- and hip room, and it's just a darker space. That being said, the GH is vastly better than the original Highlander, and it fits in an extra seat, so it has a passenger count advantage.

These two are neck and neck when it comes to cargo space. Both post the same 20.6 cubic feet (583 liters) behind the way-back, though the Toyota's is narrower and deeper; better for longer items, worse for shorter people trying to fold the seats. The fold-flat trio in the back opens up a slight advantage when driven in two-row mode (57.9 cubes / 1,640 L). That advantage shrinks to less than a cubic foot with both rows folded down, with a cavernous 97.5 cubes (2,761 L).

Toyota rates the Grand Highlander to a maximum of 5,000 pounds of towing when properly equipped.

Volkswagen Atlas: One of our main criticisms of the outgoing Atlas was an interior that didn't align with the price tag. Volkswagen has addressed that for 2024, trading up to softer materials and some pretty, adjustable ambient lighting. The combination of light surfaces and gently curved wood give the Atlas cabin a more natural, airy feel. We don't love the piano black infecting the center console, but we can't argue with the space for drinks, our phones, and small bags underneath. The VW's door cubbies are also huge.

Up front, the Atlas has sculpted buckets that keep its driver and front passenger locked in, while providing extra lower leg support. The second row seats are a trade-off over the Toyota: more headroom (40.4 inches / 1,026 millimeters against 38.5 inches / 978 mm) for less legroom (37.6 inches / 955 mm against 39.5 inches / 1,003 mm). The middle row also misses out on the ventilated seats found in the Toyota, but keep heating.

The Atlas' third row remains one of the most comfortable spots for a pair of adults outside of a minivan. Yes, just a pair: VW makes a very conscious decision to keep its big boy down to a duo in the way-back, enhancing the feeling of space. The seat cushions have a good gap from the floor, so knees aren't up by necks. The flat window line also makes it less claustrophobic.

The VW's cargo space is ample. With all seats up it's a Toyota-matching 20.6 cubic feet (583 L). Drop one row of seats and that becomes 55.5 cu ft (1,572 L); drop two and you've got 96.8 cu ft (2,741 L) to build a wicked Hot Wheels track.

Bottom Line: Toyota might have debuted the Grand Highlander specifically to address the tight rear row of the non-Grand, but the Atlas shows there's still room for improvement there. That said, the VW also only has to seat two out back instead of three. The rest of the space is a closer fight: more comfy front seats for the VW, slightly more spacious seconds for the Toyota. Call it a draw.

Toyota Grand Highlander vs Volkswagen Atlas: Tech and Features

Grand Highlander: Toyota's latest infotainment system takes up residence in a large 12.3-inch screen here. It's super-easy to figure out, with only a handful of main menu buttons on the left. We found the voice assistant had a lower success rate than the German, however. Wirless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both available, though at least with the former, there's an unnecessary amount of tile-poking to swap between the native and phone menus. The 11-speaker JBL sound system is inoffensive and unremarkable.

Toyota stuffs plenty of driver and safety assists into every trim of the Grand Highlander. Full-range cruise control with stop and go, lane assists, blind spot monitoring, auto park assist, Traffic Jam assist-it's all here. The Platinum drops in a useful 360-degree camera-which stays active at low speeds-and a slightly less useful user profile face identification feature for the infotainment.

Atlas: While it once left advanced driver assists to the options list, Volkswagen has made big strides in their standardization over recent years. IQ.Drive is part of every Atlas for '24, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, automated emergency braking, and a safe exit assist. This top trim tester adds such niceties as auto high beams, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera of its own. Like the Toyota, the Volkswagen also benefits from a power tailgate.

It almost feels like pummelling a deceased equine, but VW's latest 12.0-inch infotainment has issues. Namely, the touch-sensitive (but not illuminated) controls along the bottom edge of the screen. Beyond that, it's only merely frustrating, with some odd menu structures that would become second nature after a few weeks of ownership. But the sliders? Ugh.

The VW does have other tech advantages, however. Its Harman Kardon sound system is better for example, as is its more intuitive voice assistant. I like the wicked-sharp digital instrument panel and its customization options; Mike-or more accurately, Mike's son-gives the adjustable ambient lighting the thumbs up.

Powertrain, Driving Feel, and Efficiency

Grand Highlander: This Grand Highlander comes with the Hybrid Max powertrain, a setup unavailable in the regular Highlander. Don't let the name fool you: while it can still run on battery power to eke out greater efficiency, this is a performance powertrain first. And boy does it perform.

With 362 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque left to motivate 4575 pounds-around 90 less than the Atlas-the Grand Highlander is the comparative grand hotrod. All-wheel drive power comes in without delay, with the thick swell of torque masking the six-speed auto's lack of available ratios. There's even a decent (piped-in) sound, giving the GH the rumble of a bigger V6.

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While there's a little more weight and inches between the axles than the regular Highlander, the Grand still rides like a modern TNGA platform vehicle. That is to say it's tidy, with light and consistent steering. The GH doesn't feel unwieldy in traffic, helped by clear sightlines and confidence-boosting brakes. I found there to be less wind noise on the highway than in the Atlas.

The EPA rates the Grand Highlander Hybrid Max at 26 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, for a combined 27 mpg rating. (Canadian figures are 9.0, 8.6, and 8.8 L/100 km, respectively). Our weekly consumption was right in line with the official figures.

Atlas: Whereas the Grand Highlander adds more powertrain options, VW refined its numbers down for 2024. The VR6 has been put out to pasture, with only a 2.0-liter turbo remaining. Whether buyers pick front- or all-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic handles shifting duties. Can something as chonky as the Atlas work with something so tiny?

Absolutely. This is a refined version of VW's ubiquitous EA888 engine. Now dubbed Evo 4, it's the same engine found in the mk8 GTI and Golf R, here putting out 269 hp and 273 lb-ft. Mike thinks VW is underquoting, and I'm inclined to agree. The Atlas moves, even with four other people along for the ride. Is it as quick as the Toyota? Nope. But it's more than adequate for the segment.

While nothing major has happened under the skin, Volkswagen engineers did slightly tweak the suspension to accommodate the new engine. Whatever was done, the result is greater than the sum of its parts, as the Atlas is now a much friendlier vehicle to drive. Older models always felt like they were attempting to simulate body-on-frame SUVs, all lumbering weight transfer and slow responses. This '24 is clean and composed. It isn't as fun on the back road home after dropping off the kids, but the Atlas holds its own. The VW will also play a simulated soundtrack, even more dramatic and OTT than the Toyota's.

One area the VW just can't hack it is fuel economy. Its ratings of 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and just 21 mpg combined put it mid-pack in the segment and well behind the Toyota. Canadian figures are 12.6, 9.4, and 11.2 L/100 km, respectively.

Bottom Line: No doubt about it, the Toyota has the preferred powertrain here.

Toyota Grand Highlander vs Volkswagen Atlas: Styling

Grand Highlander: Somewhere deep inside Toyota headquarters, there is a machine that spits out SUV designs. I like to think there are a few levers and dials: size, boxiness, aggression, you get the idea. Someone set the first one to "XXL" but forgot to tweak a single other one. The Grand Highlander is default SUV shape writ large. A modern pop song, the sort you forget the moment it stops playing. You will lose the GH in the parking lot. The design is the vehicle's weakest aspect, with only the chamfered D-pillar getting close to being interesting.

Atlas: This is technically the second facelift for VW's biggest SUV, but I think it's a successful one. The flanks are still dominated by swollen fenders, but there are now squarer headlights connected with a thin LED strip atop the grille. So many other brands are doing thin, wide headlights, so I appreciate VW bucking the trend there. The Germans embraced the full-width taillight treatment however, with a thicc bar across the tailgate. Light-up emblems aren't too gimmicky since they're reasonably sized; there's a nice touch here, as the outlined logo signifies an ICE vehicle, while filled-in logos are for EVs. The VW also has the better wheel design.

Bottom Line: These two are big and bulky SUVs; there's only so much that can be done to that shape, as evidenced by the very similar window lines. We both find the VW the more handsome of the two, but your tastes may vary.

Pricing and Value

Grand Highlander: The Grand Highlander kicks off in the XLE trim, for $44,715 in front-drive format and $46,315 ($52,420 CAD) for AWD. This loaded Platinum Hybrid Max tester exists at the opposite end of the spectrum, ringing in at a spendy $59,870 ($67,380 CAD). There are no options at this level beyond premium paint.

Atlas: The German undercuts its Japanese competitor across the board. The Atlas lineup starts at an attractive $39,420, but you'll need to drop an additional $1,900 for AWD, bringing the cost to $41,320 ($52,045 CAD).

This is also top trim, dubbed SEL Premium R-Line in the US and simply Execline in Canada. Add on the second row captain's chairs ($695 / $700 CAD), and the final tally is $55,010 ($62,745 CAD).

All Grand Highlander and Atlas prices include destination.

Bottom Line: The Toyota is pricier on either side of the border, by precisely $4,860 in the US and $4,635 CAD in Canada. Put another way, a difference of less than 10 percent, and an amount that's all so much easier to swallow in the likelihood of monthly payments.

Toyota Grand Highlander vs Volkswagen Atlas: Verdict

This is one of those comparisons where I was genuinely unsure which vehicle I'd prefer going into it. The Grand Highlander has so many on-paper advantages, while the VW shines in the real world. No wonder it's such a sales force for VW.

For me, the Toyota just noses ahead. While it's pricier, we're talking a small difference in monthly payments, for an extra 100 horsepower and still better fuel economy. The cabin doesn't feel quite as special as the VW's but still very nice, and the third row is a wash for me: more seats versus more space. Mike felt otherwise, however.

"For me, the choice between these two vehicles comes down to a right brain versus left brain dilemma," explains Schlee. "Looking at all the reasons Kyle mentioned, the Grand Highlander is the more sensible vehicle to purchase. It has more power, better efficiency, and still a wholly usable interior."

"But I enjoy being in the Volkswagen Atlas more. It's completely subjective in reasoning, but the interior, driving feel, and layout just speaks to me more than the Grand Highlander. The Toyota is a great tool for transporting larger quantities of people in premium comfort, but if I'm in the market, the Volkswagen would probably get my dollars."

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  • Highlander 2nd Generation (2008-2013)

Cruise control will not turn on

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Newbie, first post. A month ago I purchased a base 2011 HL and neglected to test the CC before buying. The used car dealer could not fix the problem and will send it to the Toyota dealer on Tuesday. I am worried about getting stuck with a big bill! I could not find any fuses specifically listed CC. Any ideas for self repair will be appreciated! Don  

toyota highlander cruise control not working

Will it not turn on at all? or it will turn on but won't "set"?  

It will not turn on. The light does not come on indicating it is activated. Thinking the light may be out, I still tried to set the CC but it did not set. Also, I cannot get the locks to cycle so I can program 2 new 3-button keyless fobs that I had to buy. Don't know if these problems are related.  

I had to program my fobs with Techstream myself. I could not do the normal self programming method.  

Yes, I tried many times the self programming. then called a locksmith, who could not get his "machine" to cycle the locks. Don't know if it was a Techscreen. but he does work for the Toyota dealer, who wants $135/fob!  

So much of these cars are computer controlled it is unlikely to be a hardware issue. If there is a pending error code in memory or something as simple as a brake light out the computer will not allow the CC to engage. Have the dealer or someone that is good at diagnosing electrical issues scan for codes. Then it may be that your two issues have a common cause.  

toyota highlander cruise control not working

Never heard of it not working on this forum that isn't accompanied also by TC/VSC warning lights too.  

There are not any warning lights. It goes back to the used car dealer tomorrow for scanning by the Toyota dealer. Hopefully it will be an easy fix and no charge since it wasn't working when I bought it. I'll let y'all know. Thanks for your replies!  

It was the spiral cable, which I had to google to find out it is inside the steering wheel. My dealer treated me right, because I think that's about a $700 repair. Now on to the keyless programming problem.  

Here is my video on how to program remotes with Techstream. This is the only way I have been able to do it for people. http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/1...key-remotes-newer-toyotas-lexus-vehicles.html  

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COMMENTS

  1. Toyota Highlander Cruise Control Not Working: How to Fix

    The cruise control system is a big plus in any vehicle and if it fails, you'd have to put in some extra work to keep your vehicle moving at a constant speed. However, a Toyota Highlander cruise control failure goes beyond a driving problem and could signify something even more serious.

  2. Cruise controls isnt working, fuses?

    296 posts · Joined 2012. #2 · Sep 28, 2016. Don't know about the fuses but I know some car manufacturers (not sure about Toyota) disable 'Cruise control" if there is no light bulb (s) in the rear high brake light that is (are) working ! Might be worth checking that your high brake light comes on when braking...hope this helps , good luck.

  3. Check engine light and no cruise control.

    MikeInNH said: Check engine light means the ECU has detected a problem. When it happens you need to get the vehicle scanned or buy a scanner and do it yourself. The codes from the scanner will tell what the problem may be or at least where to look. A loose gas cap may generate a code of P0457. Toyota (and I think a couple other manufacturers ...

  4. Toyota Highlander Cruise Control Not Working

    Toyota Highlander. The most common reasons a Toyota Highlander cruise control isn't working are failed control module, sensor or switch issues, or throttle actuation problems. 0 %. 10 % of the time it's the. Control Module.

  5. Cruise Control Problem...

    Removing the cover reveals a ton of dust, but no obvious problems. Electrical connector was clean and secure. 3. Searching the internet reveals a relatively common problem with Toyota cruise control modules of this vintage going bad and acting up after the car has been running a bit.

  6. 5 Reasons Why Your Cruise Control Stopped Working

    It can also be caused by issues with the throttle control system or the ABS. In older cruise control systems, it can be caused by a broken vacuum line. Here is a more detailed list of the possible reasons your cruise control is not working: 1. Blown Fuse. All electrical systems in the vehicle are controlled by fuses.

  7. 4 Reasons Your Cruise Control Stopped Working

    A damaged speed sensor may cause the cruise control not to work properly due to inaccurate readings. Since a damaged speed sensor can also cause problems with the speedometer, it should be fixed right away. 1. Faulty Brake Pedal Switch. When you step on the brake pedal, the brake lights turn on. This is due to the brake pedal switch.

  8. How do I operate the cruise control in my vehicle?

    To use Cruise Control, turn it on first by pressing the button on the end of the control stalk behind the lower right side of the steering wheel. The green cruise control icon will appear in the instrument display to show the system is ready. Then accelerate to the speed you want, and press the stalk down to set it.

  9. How To Fix Toyota Cruise Control Problem

    Watch at proclaimliberty2000 how I fixed my cruise control. The only thing I forgot to mention is make sure the vehicle is running in park as the replacemen...

  10. 2011 Toyota Highlander Cruise Control Not Working

    Ask a question, get an answer ASAP! 2011 Toyota Highlander Cruise Control Not Working? RepairPal will help you figure out whether it's your Control Module, Sensor, Throttle, or something else.

  11. How do I operate the adaptive cruise control in my vehicle?

    To activate the system, press the "ON/OFF" button at the end of the stalk on the lower end of the right side of the steering wheel. The radar-ready indicator will appear in the Multi Information Display. Accelerate or decelerate to your intended speed, then press the stalk down to set it. If you want to go faster, push the stalk upward and hold ...

  12. Toyota Highlander Cruise control is not working Inspection Costs

    Cruise control is not working Inspection. Estimate. $99.99. Shop/Dealer Price. $110.24 - $117.94. Show example Toyota Highlander Cruise control is not working Inspection prices. Cruise control can be very convenient when on a long drive or when on the highway. By setting a speed, you can relax your foot and let the vehicle maintain speed.

  13. Cruise Control Troubleshooting

    If you cannot find a problem, it is likely the clutch switch or the brake switch for the CC. Look at the top of the clutch and brake pedals for the switch, and see if anything is broken/loose. Press button in on stalk - observe green light. Tap stalk down to set speed. Tap up or down to adjust set speed.

  14. Toyota Highlander cruise control issue

    This is my diagnosis of a 2012 Toyota Highlander loss of cruise control randomly . Disable air bags . Follow service information .

  15. Toyota How-To: Cruise Control

    This video gives instructions on how to operate the cruise control feature in your new Toyota. SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/ToyotaSubscribeAbout Toyota:We're in ...

  16. 2019 Toyota Highlander Cruise Control Not Working

    The most common reasons a 2019 Toyota Highlander cruise control isn't working are failed control module, sensor or switch issues, or throttle actuation problems. 0 %. 10 % of the time it's the. Control Module. 0 %.

  17. Cruise Control wont engage

    Join Date: Aug 2015. Location: Granite Bay, CA. Posts: 5. 3rd gen cruise control problem fixed. Had the same issue intermittently, the permanently;Cruise light comes on but won't set on 98 4runner. On the Manual tranny, there is an interlock switch that engages when the clutch pedal is up (fully engaged).

  18. 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser First Drive: Is the Smaller ...

    2024 Toyota Grand Highlander First Drive: Driving Impressions. ... three-zone automatic climate control, a half-dozen USB-C ports, and a 2,400-watt AC inverter and three-prong outlet, so you're ...

  19. Cruise control not working

    Cruise control not working. ... Come discuss the Camry, Tacoma, Highlander, 4Runner, Rav4 and more! Show Less ... owned and operated by VerticalScope Inc. Content on toyotanation.com is generated by its users. toyotanation.com is not in any way affiliated with Toyota Motor Corporation VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto ...

  20. Toyota Grand Highlander vs Volkswagen Atlas Comparison

    Toyota stuffs plenty of driver and safety assists into every trim of the Grand Highlander. Full-range cruise control with stop and go, lane assists, blind spot monitoring, auto park assist ...

  21. Cruise Control No Worky

    This is working, or the vehicle would not be drivable. The cruise control system tells the ECU to hold a specific speed. Signals come from the VSS (working or the speedo would not work), the control stalk, brake light, and, manual transmission, clutch safety switch. Brake light switch is a possibility, it would turn on, but then either not "set ...

  22. Cruise control will not turn on

    Newbie, first post. A month ago I purchased a base 2011 HL and neglected to test the CC before buying. The used car dealer could not fix the problem and will send it to the Toyota dealer on Tuesday. I am worried about getting stuck with a big bill! I could not find any fuses specifically listed CC. Any ideas for self repair will be appreciated! Don