Cruise Control Switch Repair Cost Estimates
Steering Wheel Mounted Switch
Labor time: 1-1.5 hours
Typical cost: $125-$187.50 for labor plus $50-$150 for parts
Total estimated cost: $175-$337.50
Column Mounted Stalk Switch
Labor time: 1.5-2 hours
Typical cost: $187.50-$250 for labor plus $75-$200 for parts
Total estimated cost: $262.50-$450
Dashboard Mounted Switch
Labor time: 1-2 hours
Typical cost: $125-$250 for labor plus $40-$100 for parts
Total estimated cost: $165-$350
Please note:
- Costs may vary depending on vehicle make and model
- Parts prices are approximate and subject to market fluctuations
- Additional diagnostic time may be required in some cases
- Warranty coverage may apply depending on vehicle age and history
Additional Considerations:
Some luxury vehicles may require specialized parts and additional labor time, which could increase costs by 25-50%. We recommend scheduling a diagnostic appointment for an accurate quote specific to your vehicle.
Cruise Control Switch Repair Procedures
Steering Wheel Mounted Switch
Common repair steps:
- Disconnect vehicle battery (wait 15 minutes for airbag system to depower)
- Remove airbag module by releasing retaining screws
- Disconnect and carefully remove airbag electrical connectors
- Remove steering wheel center trim cover
- Disconnect cruise control switch electrical connector
- Remove mounting screws securing switch assembly
- Install new cruise control switch assembly
- Reconnect electrical connections
- Reinstall trim and airbag components
- Reconnect battery and verify proper operation
Column Mounted Stalk Switch
Common repair steps:
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Remove steering column covers (upper and lower)
- Locate cruise control stalk assembly
- Remove mounting screws/clips securing stalk
- Disconnect electrical connector from stalk
- Install new stalk assembly
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reinstall column covers
- Reconnect battery and test operation
Dashboard Mounted Switch
Common repair steps:
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Remove trim panel surrounding switch
- Access switch mounting location from behind dash
- Disconnect electrical connector
- Release mounting clips/screws
- Remove old switch
- Install new switch into mounting location
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reinstall trim panels
- Reconnect battery and verify operation
Important Safety Notes:
- Always consult vehicle-specific repair manual before beginning work
- Take extra precaution when working with airbag systems
- Ensure proper tools are available before starting repair
- Document connector locations and routing during disassembly
Note: Repair procedures may vary by vehicle make, model, and year. Professional installation is recommended for safety-critical systems.
Understanding Cruise Control Switches

Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
TheVehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)is the primary sensor responsible for monitoring your vehicle's speed while cruise control is engaged. Located typically on the transmission or wheel hub, it:
- Converts rotational speed into electronic signals
- Provides real-time speed data to the cruise control module
- Helps maintain consistent vehicle speed on varying road conditions
Wheel Speed Sensor
TheWheel Speed Sensorworks in conjunction with the VSS to provide accurate speed readings. Mounted near each wheel, it:
- Monitors individual wheel rotation speeds
- Helps detect wheel slip or speed variations
- Ensures accurate cruise control operation during turns and varying road conditions
Transmission Speed Sensor
TheTransmission Speed Sensormonitors the transmission's output shaft speed. This sensor:
- Provides additional speed verification
- Helps coordinate gear shifts during cruise control operation
- Ensures smooth speed transitions when cruise control is engaged
Throttle Position Sensor
While not strictly a speed sensor, theThrottle Position Sensoris crucial for cruise control operation. It:
- Monitors throttle blade position
- Helps regulate engine power to maintain desired speed
- Communicates with the cruise control module for precise speed control
Note: The exact configuration and number of speed sensors may vary depending on your vehicle's make, model, and year.
ON/OFF Switch
The ON/OFF switch is the master control for your cruise control system. When turned ON, it activates the cruise control system, making it ready for use. When OFF, the entire system is disabled. This switch must be ON before any other cruise control functions can be used.
SET/ACCEL Switch
The SET/ACCEL switch serves two primary functions:
- SET: Engages cruise control at your current speed when pressed briefly
- ACCEL: When held down, gradually increases your set speed without using the gas pedal
RESUME/COAST Switch
This dual-function switch allows you to:
- RESUME: Returns to your previously set speed after braking or canceling cruise control
- COAST: When held down, gradually decreases your set speed without using the brakes
CANCEL Switch
The CANCEL switch temporarily disables cruise control without turning off the system entirely. This is useful when you need to briefly take control of the vehicle's speed, such as in traffic or approaching a turn. Unlike turning the system OFF, using CANCEL maintains your set speed in memory, allowing you to resume it later.
Speed Adjustment Buttons (+/-)
These buttons allow for precise speed adjustments while cruise control is engaged:
- Plus (+): Increases set speed in small increments (typically 1 mph or 1 km/h)
- Minus (-): Decreases set speed in small increments (typically 1 mph or 1 km/h)
Note: The exact location and combination of these switches may vary depending on your vehicle's make and model. Some vehicles integrate these functions into steering wheel controls for easier access.
Common Failure Symptoms of Cruise Control Switches
Common Cruise Control Switch Issues & Maintenance Guide
Steering Wheel-Mounted Cruise Control Switch
Signs of Failure:
- Buttons feel sticky or unresponsive
- Intermittent cruise control operation
- Cruise control won't engage despite button presses
- Warning lights on dashboard related to cruise control
Service Schedule:
No regular maintenance required. Replace only when malfunctioning. Typical lifespan is 8-10 years.
Steering Column Mounted Cruise Control Switch
Signs of Failure:
- Loose or wobbly lever
- Grinding noise when operating the switch
- System doesn't respond to lever movements
- Cruise control disengages unexpectedly
Service Schedule:
Inspect annually for proper operation. Clean contacts every 50,000 miles if accessible. Replace if mechanical issues develop.
Brake Pedal Cruise Control Switch
Signs of Failure:
- Cruise control won't disengage when braking
- Brake lights staying on constantly
- Cruise control disengages randomly
- Check Engine light illuminated with cruise control codes
Service Schedule:
Test operation during annual brake system inspection. Replace every 100,000 miles as preventive maintenance or when failing.
Vacuum Operated Cruise Control Switch
Signs of Failure:
- Cruise control won't maintain steady speed
- Hissing sounds from under hood
- System works intermittently
- Complete loss of cruise control function
Service Schedule:
Inspect vacuum lines every 30,000 miles. Replace switch if vacuum leaks detected. Clean or replace vacuum filter annually.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner manual for specific maintenance schedules and procedures.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.