Cruise control is a speed control system that maintains a desired vehicle speed under normal driving conditions. However, steep grades up or down may cause variations in the selected speeds. The electronic cruise control system has the capability to CRUISE, COAST, RESUME SPEED, ACCELERATE, and TAP-UP or TAP-DOWN.

The main parts of the cruise control system are the functional control switches, cruise control module assembly, vehicle speed sensor, cruise control release switch, and stoplamp switch assemblies. The cruise control system uses a cruise control module assembly to obtain the desired vehicle cruise operation. Two important components in the module assembly help to do this. The first is an electronic controller and the second is an electric stepper motor. The electric controller monitors vehicle speed and operates the electric stepper motor. The electric stepper motor moves a band and throttle linkage, in response to the electronic controller, to maintain the desired cruise speed. The cruise control module assembly contains a low speed limit which will prevent system engagement below a minimum speed of 40 km/h (25 mph). The operation of the electronic controller is controlled by functional control switches located on the multifunction turn signal lever.

Cruise control release switch and stoplamp switch assemblies are provided to disengage the cruise control. The switch assemblies are mounted on the brake pedal bracket assembly. When the brake pedal assembly is depressed, the cruise control is electrically disengaged and the throttle is returned to the idle position.

The cruise control module assembly has an electronic controller and an electric stepper motor to vary the throttle with each different cruise control mode. The module assembly is not serviceable.

The cruise control release switch and stoplamp switch assemblies are used to disengage the cruise control. A release switch assembly and a stoplamp switch assembly, mounted on the brake pedal bracket, disengage the system electrically when the brake pedal assembly is depressed. This is done by activating the brake cut-out input to the cruise control module assembly. The speed of the vehicle at brake actuation will be stored in the memory of the system.

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is mounted to the automatic transaxle assembly and produces an AC signal. The frequency of this signal is proportional to the speed at which the automatic transaxle assembly output shaft rotates, which in turn is proportional to the speed of the vehicle.

The AC signal is supplied to the cruise control module assembly and speedometer assembly by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

The signal sent to the cruise control module assembly and speedometer assembly is at a rate of 4000 pulses per mile. The PCM converts the number of pulses per mile per second to determine vehicle speed.

With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 40 km/h (25 mph) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can help on long trips. The cruise control does not work at speeds below 40 km/h (25 mph). When you apply your brakes or turn off the switch, the cruise control shuts off.