What is the Cruise Control Clutch Release Switch all about?

Manual transmission vehicles equipped with cruise control operate similarly to automatic transmission vehicles. The buttons operate the same way, except in one case: manual transmission vehicles are equipped with a clutch pedal. If you’ve driven a manual transmission vehicle, you are aware that when you're driving a constant speed and press the clutch pedal in without releasing the accelerator, the engine races to much higher RPMs. The exact same thing would happen if the cruise control did not use a switch to cancel the current set speed when the clutch pedal is pressed in. For that reason, a cruise control clutch release switch is mounted on the clutch pedal. It is a small electrical switch that is open and does not complete a circuit when the clutch pedal is pressed in, meaning the cruise control will not set, or will cancel if it is set. When the pedal is not pressed in, the circuit is closed and there is continuity, so the cruise control will be able to set. If the cruise control clutch release switch has failed in the open position, your cruise control will not set at all. If the release switch has stopped working while in the closed position, your engine will race when the clutch is depressed while the cruise control is set, and you will need to use another function to shut down the cruise control set speed.

Keep in mind:

• The cruise control on manual transmission cars is slightly different than those on automatic transmission vehicles, and parts don’t typically cross over between the two styles.
• When you are driving up or down a steep incline, cancel the cruise control and manually operate the throttle for more precise control of your vehicle.

How it's done:

• The cruise control clutch release switch is verified that it needs to be replaced. The trim panel above clutch pedal is removed to access the switch.
• The defective cruise control clutch release switch is disconnected from the vacuum line and removed.
• The new cruise control clutch release switch is installed and connected to the vacuum line.
• Trim panels are reinstalled and the cruise control clutch release switch is tested for operation.
• The vehicle is road tested to ensure proper operation of the cruise control and the cruise control clutch release switch.

Our recommendation:

The cruise control system is maintenance-free and doesn’t require servicing. Should the cruise control cease to function, you should have one of our expert technicians diagnose and repair it as several components can cause the same symptom.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Cruise Control Clutch Release Switch?

• Cruise control will not set on your manual transmission vehicle.
• Cruise control will not cancel when the clutch pedal is pressed.

How important is this service?

Cruise control is still an optional feature on many manual transmission vehicles today, so it serves as a convenience and not a safety or necessary feature. Have the cruise control repaired when you see fit.