How does cruise control work when going downhill?

Traditional cruise control only operates the throttle. It sets a minimum speed, but all it can do downhill is let off the gas. Some newer cars let it brake also.

Does cruise control slow you down going downhill?

Passive cruise control targets a speed, it reduces throttle position to slow down, but if engine braking is less than the effect of a steep downhill, the car will gain speed.

How does cruise control braking work?

If a vehicle ahead is too close, the system applies the brakes to slow down, activating the brake lights on hard deceleration to warn drivers behind. Once traffic ahead moves or clears, the system accelerates until it reaches the cruise control’s pre-set speed.

Should you use cruise control on hills?

Cruise control on hills is hazardous. When driving on hills it is best to control your speed using the accelerator and brake. This is because cruise control may not accelerate your vehicle properly up a hill, making it move dangerously slowly.

Is it possible to overuse cruise control?

Essential safety tips when using this driving feature Taylor Auto Glass warns that relying too heavily on cruise control can lead to distracted driving. Your eyes should always be on the road, not on your phone or the stereo, while you’re using this feature.

Does cruise control use the brake?

The cruise control doesn’t usually touch the car’s brakes, it works on the throttle only. And if you’ve got a car with an automatic gearbox then the gears will change without affecting the cruise control.

Can you break while using cruise control?

Hitting the brakes while on cruise control will automatically turn cruise control off. If you accelerate after hitting the breaks, then you are driving normally. You will have to restart cruise control with the buttons/lever.

Is cruise control bad for your brakes?

In short, no—cruise control is not bad for your car. Most models rely on engine braking—downshifting to reduce speed—when going downhill. Nor does the automatic braking some newer vehicles use to decrease momentum. The problem is when you set the cruise control and proceed to navigate steep hills or winding roads.

Does cruise control ruin brakes?

Is Cruise Control Bad For Your Car? In short, no—cruise control is not bad for your car. Most models rely on engine braking—downshifting to reduce speed—when going downhill. Engine braking doesn’t hurt your vehicle.

Can cruise control ruin your transmission?

The cruise control uses some of the same sensor inputs the transmission uses and can indeed affect the transmission and cruise control. If the transmission is slipping then the cruise control may not control the speed steady.

Why doesn’t cruise control work on hills?

The cruise control can’t see them either. Ford’s manual states: “When you are going downhill, your vehicle speed may increase above the set speed. The system will not apply the brakes. Change down a gear to assist the system in maintaining the set speed.” That hill warning is there because the car companies are “worried about runaway vehicles.”

What is the difference between cruise control and speed limit?

Cruise control doesn’t limit your speed, it just maintains a set speed without you having to push the throttle. The speed limiter stops you from going past a set speed when you’re pressing the throttle yourself. Click to expand… So the Speed Limiter function is a separate function to the Cruise Control?

What are the benefits of cruise control in a car?

Another nice feature of cruise control is you can set it to the speed limit so you do not have to worry about speeding tickets. Many drivers inadvertently go over the speed limit, especially on long trips. By having the cruise control in place, you will not have to worry about accidentally speeding on the highway or backroads.

What should I do if my cruise control is not working?

If your cruise control is not working properly, the professionals at YourMechanic can inspect your cruise control. The cruise control feature not only makes your trip more comfortable, it helps you stay within the speed limit by maintaining a constant speed.