2009 Chevy Cobalt Cruise Control Not Working
Having cruise control in your car can be a lifesaver when you're driving long distances. It can help you maintain a consistent speed and reduce driver fatigue. However, if your cruise control stops working, it can be frustrating and even dangerous. If you own a 2009 Chevy Cobalt and your cruise control isn't functioning properly, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.
Symptoms of a Cruise Control Problem
Before we jump into troubleshooting, let's review some of the symptoms you may be experiencing if your 2009 Chevy Cobalt's cruise control is not working properly. These include:
- The cruise control light on the dashboard does not come on
- The cruise control light comes on, but the system does not engage when you press the "Set" button
- The cruise control engages, but it won't maintain a steady speed
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, read on for some tips on how to troubleshoot your 2009 Chevy Cobalt's cruise control.
Check the Fuses
The first thing you should do is check the fuses related to the cruise control system. The fuse box is located on the passenger side of the dashboard, near the door. The fuse for the cruise control system is labeled CRUISE in the fuse box diagram. Check to see if the fuse is blown and replace it if necessary.
Check the Brake Lights
Another reason why your 2009 Chevy Cobalt's cruise control may not be working is because of a brake light switch malfunction. The cruise control system is designed to disengage when you press on the brake pedal. If the brake light switch is faulty or needs to be adjusted, it can cause the cruise control system to disengage prematurely or not engage at all.
To test the brake light switch, have someone stand behind your car and watch your brake lights as you press the brake pedal. If the brake lights don't come on, it's likely that the brake light switch needs to be replaced. If the brake lights come on, you may need to adjust the brake light switch so that it engages the pedal properly.
Check the Throttle Cable
The cruise control system in your 2009 Chevy Cobalt is designed to work in conjunction with the throttle cable. If the throttle cable is loose or disconnected, the cruise control system won't engage properly. Check to make sure that the throttle cable is properly connected and adjusted. If it's loose or disconnected, tighten or reconnect it as necessary.
Check the Speed Sensor
The speed sensor is another component of the cruise control system that can cause problems if it's malfunctioning. The speed sensor is responsible for sending signals to the cruise control module to adjust the speed of the car. If the speed sensor is faulty, it can cause the cruise control system to disengage prematurely or not engage at all.
To test the speed sensor, you'll need a multimeter. First, locate the speed sensor on your 2009 Chevy Cobalt. It's usually located on the transmission. Disconnect the speed sensor connector and use the multimeter to test the resistance between the two wires. Consult your owner's manual for specific resistance values. If the resistance values are incorrect, replace the speed sensor.
Conclusion
If your 2009 Chevy Cobalt's cruise control is not working, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. Check the fuses, brake lights, throttle cable, and speed sensor to see if they are functioning properly. If you're still having trouble, take your car to a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis and repair. Remember, it's important to have a functioning cruise control system to help you stay safe and reduce driver fatigue on long drives.
