Is your 2008 Chevy Silverado’s cruise control on the fritz?
Don’t settle for frustrating manual highway driving!
This guide offers a step-by-step approach to troubleshooting common issues causing cruise control malfunctions in your Silverado.
We’ll explore potential causes, from blown fuses to faulty switches, and equip you with solutions to get your cruise control back on track and your cruising smooth again.
Why Is My 2008 Chevy Silverado Cruise Control Not Working?
1. Blown Fuse
A blown fuse is a frequent cause of electrical malfunctions, including cruise control issues. Your Silverado has several fuse boxes, and the one controlling the cruise control might be under the hood or near the dashboard. Consult your owner’s manual to locate the specific fuse and check if it’s blown.
2. Faulty Cruise Control Switch
The cruise control switch on your steering wheel could be malfunctioning. This switch sends signals to the cruise control system, and a faulty switch could disrupt those signals, preventing engagement or causing erratic behavior.
3. Brake Light Switch Issues
The brake light switch is crucial for cruise control functionality. When you press the brake pedal, this switch disengages the cruise control. A faulty switch might send incorrect signals, causing the cruise control to deactivate even when you haven’t touched the brake.
4. Sensor Problems
Your Silverado relies on various sensors, like the speed sensor and throttle position sensor, to maintain consistent cruise control speed. Issues with these sensors could lead to inaccurate readings and malfunctioning cruise control.
5. Faulty Control Module
In some cases, the problem might lie with the electronic control module responsible for managing the cruise control system. Diagnosing a faulty module often requires specialized equipment and expertise, so consulting a mechanic might be necessary.
Also Read: Chevy Silverado Starting Problems? Don’t Panic, We’ve Got You Covered!
How Do You Troubleshoot A 2008 Chevy Silverado Cruise Control Not Working?
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Faulty cruise control switch
This is the switch on your steering wheel or dashboard that activates and controls the cruise control feature. If it is damaged, worn out, or has loose connections, it can prevent the cruise control from working properly. To fix this, you can inspect the switch for any visible signs of problems, and test its resistance with a digital multi-meter. If the switch is faulty, you can replace it with a new one.
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Malfunctioning vehicle speed sensor (VSS)
This is the sensor that measures your vehicle’s speed and sends it to the cruise control module. If it is not working correctly, it can cause the cruise control to fail or behave erratically. To fix this, you can have a professional mechanic inspect the sensor and its connections, and replace it if necessary.
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Bad brake light switch
This is the switch on your brake pedal assembly that signals the cruise control module to deactivate the feature when you apply the brakes. If it is stuck, broken, or misaligned, it can interfere with the cruise control operation. To fix this, you can check the switch for any signs of damage, and test its resistance with a digital multi-meter. If the switch is bad, you can replace it with a new one.
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Electrical issues
There could be other electrical problems that affect the cruise control system, such as blown fuses, shorted wires, or software glitches. To fix this, you can check the fuses for the cruise control circuit, and replace any that are blown. You can also inspect the wiring for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections, and repair or replace them as needed. You can also use a scan tool with data monitoring to check for any trouble codes or software updates related to the cruise control system.
Where is the cruise control fuse on a 2008 Chevy Silverado?
The cruise control fuse on a 2008 Chevy Silverado is located under the hood, in the fuse box number 43, labeled as Misc/IGN. You can check this fuse for any signs of damage or corrosion, and replace it if needed.
How do you use cruise control on a 2008 Chevy Silverado?
Using cruise control on a 2008 Chevy Silverado is easy and convenient. Here are the basic steps to follow:
- Make sure your vehicle is in Drive or Overdrive mode, and you are driving at a steady speed above 40 km/h or 25 mph.
- Press the On/Off button on the cruise control switch, located on the left side of the steering wheel. You will see a CRUISE indicator light up on the instrument panel.
- Press and release the Set/Coast button on the cruise control switch, located below the On/Off button. You will see a SET indicator light up on the instrument panel, and your vehicle will maintain the current speed.
- To increase or decrease your speed, you can use the Resume/Accel or Set/Coast buttons, respectively. Each press will change your speed by 1.6 km/h or 1 mph. You can also press and hold the buttons to accelerate or decelerate faster and release them when you reach the desired speed.
- To cancel the cruise control, you can do any of the following:
- Tap the brake pedal.
- Press the Cancel button on the cruise control switch, located above the On/Off button.
- Press the On/Off button again.
- To resume the previous speed, press the Resume/Accel button after you have canceled the cruise control.
What Sensor Affects Cruise Control On 2008 Chevy Silverado?
Multiple sensors can affect the cruise control system in a 2008 Chevy Silverado, each playing a crucial role:
- Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS): This sensor, located near the transmission or wheel hub, measures the vehicle’s speed and sends this information to the cruise control module. If the VSS malfunctions, the module cannot maintain the desired speed accurately, leading to erratic cruise control behavior.
- Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): Mounted on the throttle body, this sensor monitors the driver’s input on the accelerator pedal. The cruise control module uses this information to adjust the throttle position and maintain the set speed. A faulty TPS can send incorrect signals, causing the engine to rev inconsistently or not respond to cruise control adjustments.
- Brake Light Switch: This switch, located near the brake pedal, detects when the brakes are applied. When you press the brake, the switch sends a signal to the cruise control module, disengaging the system. A malfunctioning switch can cause the cruise control to deactivate unexpectedly, even when you haven’t touched the brake pedal.
- Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS): These sensors, located at each wheel hub, monitor individual wheel speeds. While not directly affecting cruise control operation, they play a vital role in the vehicle’s stability control system. Faulty WSS can indirectly impact the cruise control if the stability control system malfunctions and interferes with engine power delivery.
How Do I Know If My Cruise Control Fuse Is Blown On 2008 Chevy Silverado?
Here’s how to check if your cruise control fuse is blown on your 2008 Chevy Silverado:
1. Locate the fuse box
Your Silverado has two fuse boxes:
- Underhood Fuse Box: Located in the engine compartment, usually on the driver’s side near the firewall.
- Interior Fuse Box: Located on the driver’s side lower instrument panel, behind a cover.
2. Consult your owner’s manual
The manual will specify which fuse box contains the cruise control fuse and its corresponding location and amperage rating. Look for terms like “cruise,” “cruise control,” or “speed control” in the fuse box diagram.
3. Visually inspect the fuse
Once you’ve identified the correct fuse, visually inspect it for any breaks or discoloration within the thin filament running through the center. A blown fuse will have a visible break or appear melted compared to an intact one.
4. Use a fuse tester (optional)
For added certainty, you can use a fuse tester. This small tool will indicate whether the fuse is functioning correctly by lighting up when current passes through it.
5. Replace the fuse (if blown)
If the fuse appears blown or the tester confirms it, only use a replacement fuse with the exact amperage rating specified in the owner’s manual. Using an incorrect fuse can damage your vehicle’s electrical system.
Related Post: Reduced Engine Power Chevy Silverado: Insights Into Causes and Solutions
Where Is The Cruise Control Sensor Located On the 2008 Chevy Silverado?
The cruise control sensor on a 2008 Chevy Silverado is also known as the vehicle speed sensor (VSS). It is located on the rear axle of the vehicle, near the differential. It is a small device that has a wiring harness attached to it. The VSS measures the rotational speed of the axle and sends it to the cruise control module. You can access the VSS by lifting the rear of the vehicle and locating it on the axle. You may need to remove the spare tire and the heat shield to get a better view of the sensor. Here is a video that shows how to install a cruise control kit on a 2008 Chevy Silverado, which includes locating the VSS.
How Do I Reset My Cruise Control On a 2008 Chevy Silverado?
There are different ways to reset the cruise control on your 2008 Chevy Silverado, depending on the cause of the problem. Here are some possible methods you can try:
Reset the transmission control module (TCM)
The TCM is the computer that controls the transmission and the cruise control. Sometimes, it may need to be reset to clear any glitches or errors. To reset the TCM, follow these steps:
- With the car on, but the engine not yet started, press the gas pedal down. Hold the pedal down for about 10 seconds.
- Turn the key off, but don’t remove it. Release the gas pedal.
- Wait 2 1/2 minutes while your engine rests.
- Start the engine and test the cruise control.
Replace the brake light switch
The brake light switch is the switch on your brake pedal assembly that signals the cruise control module to deactivate the feature when you apply the brakes. If it is stuck, broken, or misaligned, it can interfere with the cruise control operation. To replace the brake light switch, follow these steps:
- Locate the brake light switch under the dash, near the top of the brake pedal. It has a wiring harness attached to it.
- Disconnect the wiring harness from the switch by pressing the tabs and pulling it out.
- Remove the switch by rotating it counterclockwise and pulling it out of the bracket.
- Install the new switch by inserting it into the bracket and rotating it clockwise until it locks in place.
- Connect the wiring harness to the new switch by pushing it in until it clicks.
- Adjust the switch by pressing the brake pedal down and pulling the small lever on the bottom edge of the switch back. Release the pedal and check the clearance between the switch and the pedal.
- Test the brake lights and the cruise control.
Check the fuses and the wiring
There could be other electrical problems that affect the cruise control system, such as blown fuses, shorted wires, or loose connections. To check the fuses and the wiring, follow these steps:
- Locate the fuse box under the hood, near the battery. It has a diagram on the lid that shows the location and function of the fuses.
- Find the fuse number 43, labeled as Misc/IGN. It is a 10-amp fuse that controls the cruise control circuit.
- Remove the fuse by pulling it out with a fuse puller or a pair of pliers. Inspect the fuse for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same rating.
- Check the wiring for the cruise control system by following the color-coded wires from the fuse box to the cruise control module, the cruise control switch, the brake light switch, and the vehicle speed sensor. Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace any faulty wires or connectors as needed.
- Test the cruise control.
Conclusion
By now, you’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of the common culprits behind a malfunctioning cruise control system in your 2008 Chevy Silverado. We’ve explored potential causes like blown fuses, faulty switches, sensor issues, and even the location of relevant components.
Remember, tackling more complex repairs might be best left to qualified mechanics who have the necessary expertise and equipment. However, for basic troubleshooting, this guide should empower you to confidently diagnose and potentially fix common cruise control problems.
Key Takeaways:
- Always consult your owner’s manual for specific fuse locations, troubleshooting steps, and recommended maintenance procedures.
- Start with the simplest solutions, like checking fuses and visually inspecting components.
- If the issue persists, consider seeking professional help from a trusted mechanic.
Safe travels and smooth cruising!
