Cruise Control Accel Signal Malfunction
The cruise control system is commanding or maintaining a vehicle speed that exceeds the desired set speed. This code indicates the ECM detects the vehicle speed is too high relative to what the cruise control system requested, suggesting a malfunction in speed control regulation or sensor feedback.
What You Might Notice
- Cruise control light not illuminating or remains constantly on
- Cruise control fails to engage or operate
- Unable to set cruise control to desired speed
- Vehicle speed erratic or uncontrollable when cruise control is active
- Specific cruise control functions non-functional (Resume, Set, Accel, Coast buttons)
Most Common Causes
- 1
Faulty cruise control switch
The cruise control stalk or button assembly is defective, causing incorrect speed commands to the ECM. Switches may have internal contact wear or malfunction.
- 2
Damaged cruise control wiring or harness
Wires within the cruise control circuit are chafed, broken, or shorted, creating improper electrical signals. This disrupts communication between the switch and engine control module.
- 3
Loose or corroded electrical connectors
Connectors in the cruise control system are not making proper contact due to corrosion, looseness, or oxidation, preventing reliable signal transmission.
- 4
Engine control module malfunction
The ECM cruise control logic is defective or corrupted, causing it to misinterpret speed signals and command excessive speed maintenance.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Check Faulty cruise control switch — The cruise control stalk or button assembly is defective, causing incorrect speed commands to the ECM. Switches may have internal contact wear or malfunction.
- 2
Check Damaged cruise control wiring or harness — Wires within the cruise control circuit are chafed, broken, or shorted, creating improper electrical signals. This disrupts communication between the switch and engine control module.
- 3
Check Loose or corroded electrical connectors — Connectors in the cruise control system are not making proper contact due to corrosion, looseness, or oxidation, preventing reliable signal transmission.
- 4
Check Engine control module malfunction — The ECM cruise control logic is defective or corrupted, causing it to misinterpret speed signals and command excessive speed maintenance.
How to Fix It
- 1
Inspect and repair cruise control wiring
Visually examine the entire cruise control harness from the steering column to the ECM for damage, fraying, or loose connections. Repair or replace any damaged sections and reseat all connectors firmly.
- 2
Test and replace cruise control switch
Use a multimeter to test cruise control switch continuity. If faulty, remove the steering column trim and replace the defective switch assembly with an OEM or equivalent unit.
- 3
Clean and reseat electrical connectors
Disconnect and visually inspect all cruise control system connectors for corrosion or debris. Clean contacts with electrical contact cleaner and firmly reconnect, ensuring proper seating and locking tabs engaged.
- 4
Reflash or replace engine control module
If wiring and switches test normal, the ECM cruise control program may be corrupted. Have the module reflashed with updated firmware or replace the ECM entirely if reflashing fails.
Need a deeper diagnosis?
Search for related repair guides or browse by system.
