Cruise Control went dead - HELP!

[western99]

So I was driving along the highway and I went to engage the cruise control today and nothing took. I checked the fuse when I got home and it was still good. Last week when I was driving and I engaged it, it held, and then for some reason it went off and then I engaged it again, it held for a while and the same thing.... it went off. Today nothing took at all when I went to use it. Not sure what the problem is or even worse I do not even know how to diagnose the problem. I am thinking that maybe perhaps the actuator went? Any insight from you folks would be much appreciated. I hate having something on my car that does not work. It drives me nuts.

Thanks

Brian
95 525ia 253k
Toronto

[Macv]

I hate having something on my car that does not work. It drives me nuts.

Same here..... you just reminded me that MY cruise control doesn't work either. Sorry no insight.

[gale]

Could be as simple as the brake light switch. Those tend to be a common problem.

(edit): Also check the speed sensor in the diff. When they accumulate metal particles on the tips of the sensor, it can send a spurious signal that can kick it out of cruise.

[pingu]

I posted a repair procedure (with photos) for the cruise control earlier this year - probably around March. Try a search for those keywords on my posts.