How Much Does It Cost to Fix Cruise Control?

Expect cruise control repairs to range from about $75 to $400 for simple fixes (like a brake light switch or fuse) and $300 to $1,500+ for issues involving adaptive cruise control sensors or calibration; most drivers pay $150 to $500. Costs depend on the fault, parts availability, labor rates, and whether your vehicle uses traditional or adaptive cruise systems.

What Drives the Cost of Cruise Control Repairs

Cruise control systems span simple mechanical-electrical setups to advanced adaptive systems tied into radar, cameras, and braking. The more integrated the system, the higher the diagnostic time and parts/calibration costs. Location and shop type also affect labor rates, with dealerships often charging more than independents.

Typical Repair Cost Ranges by Fix

Below is a breakdown of common faults and what you can generally expect to pay in parts and labor in the U.S. in 2025. Your final bill will vary by vehicle, region, and shop.

• Diagnostic scan and road test: $50–$150 (often applied to the repair if you proceed)
• Fuse or relay replacement: $0–$100
• Brake light switch (a very common cause): $75–$250
• Clutch switch (manual transmissions): $100–$250
• Steering wheel cruise switch or buttons: $120–$450
• Clock spring (steering column ribbon cable): $250–$800
• Vehicle speed sensor: $150–$350
• Vacuum actuator/cable (older systems): $150–$400
• Throttle body or electronic throttle actuator: $350–$900
• Wiring/connector repair (varies with corrosion or damage): $100–$500+
• ECU/software update for cruise-related fault: $120–$300
• Adaptive cruise radar sensor (part + programming): $600–$1,600+
• Front camera for adaptive cruise/lane systems: $400–$1,200+
• ADAS calibration after sensor/camera replacement or windshield/bumper work: $150–$600

Simple electrical components tend to be inexpensive, while steering column components and ADAS sensors drive costs higher, especially when calibration is required after replacement.

How Shop Type and Location Affect Price

Labor rates and equipment access play a major role in the final cost, particularly for adaptive systems that need calibration tools and space.

• Independent shops: roughly $90–$150 per hour
• Dealerships: roughly $120–$200+ per hour
• ADAS-capable facilities: may charge additional calibration fees ($150–$400 per calibration step)
• Urban/high-cost regions: expect higher labor and parts markups

If your vehicle needs radar or camera calibration, you may be referred to a dealer or a specialty ADAS shop, adding time and cost but ensuring proper safety-system operation.

Common Symptoms and Quick Checks

Some quick observations can point you toward likely costs before you book service, helping you gauge whether it’s a simple fix or a more complex ADAS issue.

• Cruise won’t set and brake lights stay on or act erratically: suspect a brake light switch
• Cruise cancels when turning the wheel or buttons are intermittent: possible clock spring or switch failure
• Speedometer issues or ABS light on: vehicle speed sensor or wheel speed sensor fault
• Adaptive cruise unavailable message, front radar/camera blocked icon: sensor obstruction, misalignment, or calibration needed
• After windshield or bumper repair: likely camera/radar calibration required
• No power to the cruise system: start with fuses/relays

These clues are not definitive but can help you communicate with your shop and anticipate whether you’re in the lower or higher end of the cost spectrum.

Adaptive Cruise Control Adds Cost and Complexity

Vehicles with adaptive cruise control (ACC) rely on front radar, cameras, and sometimes lidar and ultrasonic sensors. Repairs often involve sensor replacement and mandatory calibration to ensure safe following distances and correct braking behavior.

• Radar sensor parts commonly cost $400–$1,200; programming and calibration add $200–$600
• Front camera replacements typically run $300–$900, plus $150–$400 for calibration
• Windshield replacements on camera-equipped cars usually require dynamic/static calibration ($150–$400)
• Bumper repairs or emblem replacements can misalign radar, prompting recalibration

Because calibration is critical for safety, many shops will not release the vehicle until procedures are completed and verified, which increases both cost and turnaround time.

Warranty, Recalls, and Insurance Considerations

Before paying out of pocket, check whether coverage or campaigns apply; these can substantially reduce or eliminate repair costs.

• Factory warranty: basic coverage (often 3 years/36,000 miles) may cover switches, sensors, and modules if still in term
• Extended service contracts: may cover electronic components and ADAS calibrations; review deductibles and exclusions
• Recalls/TSBs: certain models have known brake switch or software issues addressed at no cost or reduced cost
• Insurance: crash-related sensor damage and calibration are typically covered under collision/comprehensive claims

Use your VIN to check open recalls and technical service bulletins with your automaker or the NHTSA website, and ask your insurer about coverage if damage followed an accident or glass/bumper repair.

DIY vs. Professional Repair

Some cruise control fixes are approachable for competent DIYers with basic tools, while others require specialized equipment and safety procedures.

• DIY-friendly: fuses, relays, brake or clutch switches, steering wheel button assemblies (with care)
• Use caution: clock spring work requires airbag removal; follow service manual and disconnect battery
• Professional only: radar/camera replacement and ADAS calibration, advanced diagnostics, wiring harness repairs
• Software updates/programming typically require dealer-level tools or capable aftermarket equipment

Weigh parts cost savings against the need for calibration and the risk of airbag or safety-system faults; for ADAS-equipped cars, professional service is usually the safer choice.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

Clear information helps shops quote more precisely and avoid unnecessary parts replacement.

• Provide the exact symptoms, warning messages, and when they occur
• Mention recent work: windshield, bumper, alignment, battery replacement, or software updates
• Request a diagnostic with a written estimate before repairs
• Ask whether calibration is required and if the shop can perform it in-house
• Compare quotes from a dealer and a reputable independent, especially for out-of-warranty vehicles

A thorough diagnostic can prevent guesswork and parts swapping, often saving money even if it adds an initial fee.

Bottom Line on Price

For non-adaptive systems, many repairs fall between $150 and $500, with the brake light switch and clock spring among the most common. For adaptive cruise, expect $300 to $1,500+ once sensors and calibrations are involved. Budget an extra $50–$150 for diagnostics, which many shops credit toward the repair.

Summary

Fixing cruise control can be inexpensive if the culprit is a fuse or brake switch ($75–$250) but rises with steering column parts and electronic throttle components ($250–$900). Adaptive cruise systems add sensor and calibration costs, commonly pushing totals to $300–$1,500+. Check for warranty or recalls, get a diagnostic estimate, and ensure required calibrations are included for safe, reliable operation.

Is cruise control expensive to fix?

The average cost for a Cruise Control Module Replacement is between $651 and $683. Labor costs are estimated between $69 and $101 while parts are typically priced around $582. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

What is the main cause of cruise control not working?

Common reasons for cruise control not working include a blown fuse, a malfunctioning brake pedal switch, faulty vehicle speed sensors, and issues with the cruise control switch or wiring. A Check Engine Light can also disable cruise control as a safety measure, and older vehicles might have problems with vacuum hoses or throttle cables. 
Common Mechanical & Electrical Causes

• Blown Fuse: Opens in new tabA simple blown fuse can cut power to the entire cruise control system, causing it to stop working completely. 
• Faulty Brake Pedal Switch: Opens in new tabThis switch is a safety feature that tells the cruise control system when the brake pedal is pressed. If it malfunctions, the system won’t engage or will disengage prematurely. 
• Vehicle Speed Sensor Problems: Opens in new tabCruise control relies on accurate speed data from speed sensors. A faulty sensor can send incorrect information, preventing the system from working. 
• Malfunctioning Cruise Control Switch: Opens in new tabThe buttons or stalk used to control the cruise control on the steering wheel can wear out or develop electrical issues. 
• Electrical System Problems: Opens in new tabDamaged wiring, loose connectors, or poor grounding can disrupt the power supply and communication needed for the cruise control system. 

Other Factors

• Check Engine Light: Opens in new tabIf your vehicle’s engine or transmission has a problem, the engine’s computer may automatically deactivate the cruise control system to prevent further damage. 
• Older Vehicle Components: Opens in new tabIn older vehicles, issues like stretched or broken throttle cables or leaks in vacuum hoses can cause the cruise control to fail. 
• Dirty or Malfunctioning Cameras (Adaptive Cruise Control): Opens in new tabFor vehicles with adaptive cruise control, problems with the radar sensors or cameras, such as dirt or bad weather, can prevent the system from functioning. 

Can I drive with broken cruise control?

The cruise control is intended to be used on long trips. If the cruise control were to fail, you would still be able to drive the car normally with no damage to the car at all, as if your car was not equipped with cruise control in the first place.

Can a mechanic fix cruise control?

To get an accurate diagnosis and a cost estimate, you should ask a professional mechanic. If you want to know how to fix cruise control, some faults like replacing a fuse or brake light switch are simple fixes. However, for complex problems, a visit to a garage might be required.