The cruise control system in a Subaru vehicle allows for easy and convenient driving on long stretches of roads. However, there may be instances where the cruise control light starts flashing while the system is engaged.
This can be quite concerning for drivers, especially if they are not familiar with the cause and potential solutions.
What Causes the Flashing Cruise Control Light?
The flashing cruise control light in a Subaru vehicle can be an indication of various issues that require attention. These include:
Faulty cruise control switch
Symptom/Signs: One common cause of a flashing cruise control light in a Subaru is a faulty brake light switch.
This switch is responsible for detecting when the brake pedal is pressed, which causes the cruise control system to disengage. If the switch malfunctions, it can trigger the flashing cruise light as it cannot properly detect when the brakes are being applied.
This issue may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty starting the vehicle, unresponsive brake lights, or unexpected acceleration while driving.
Reasons: Wear and tear, electrical issues, or damage from external elements.
Over time, the contacts inside the switch can become worn out or corroded, leading to a loss of connection and triggering the flashing cruise control light.
Additionally, if there are any wiring problems or water damage in the area where the switch is located, it can also cause malfunctions.
Solutions: One option is to replace the switch entirely, which may require some basic mechanical skills and proper tools.
Alternatively, if the issue is due to wiring problems or water damage, these can be addressed by a professional mechanic who can repair or replace any damaged components.
Faulty brake light switch
Another potential culprit for a flashing cruise control light in your Subaru is a faulty brake light switch.
As mentioned before, this switch plays a crucial role in detecting when the brakes are being applied and disengaging the cruise control system.
If it malfunctions, it can cause the cruise control to not function properly or even stop working altogether.
Reasons: The reasons for a faulty brake light switch can vary, but some common causes include wear and tear, electrical issues, or damage from external elements.
Over time, the contacts inside the switch can become worn out or corroded, leading to malfunctions.
Symptom/Signs: These include the flashing cruise control light, non-functioning cruise control system, or brake lights staying on even when the pedal is not being pressed.
Solutions: If a faulty brake light switch is the issue, there are a few solutions that can be implemented. The simplest solution would be to replace the switch entirely, which may require some basic mechanical skills and proper tools.
Engine misfire
An engine misfire can also be a potential cause for a flashing cruise control light.
This occurs when there is an interruption in the combustion process, causing the engine to not run smoothly. The cruise control system may detect this as an issue and automatically disengage to prevent any further damage.
Reasons: There are many reasons why an engine may misfire, such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
These components play a critical role in the combustion process. If they are not functioning properly, it can lead to misfires.
Symptoms/Signs: Some common signs of an engine misfire include rough idling, loss of power or acceleration, and overall poor performance.
You may also notice the check engine light illuminated on your dashboard, indicating a potential issue with your vehicle’s engine.
Solutions: The most effective solution for an engine misfire is to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the specific cause. This may involve replacing faulty components or conducting necessary tune-ups to improve engine performance.
Loose gas cap
Another common cause for a flashing cruise control light is a loose or faulty gas cap. This may seem like a minor issue, but it can actually have a significant impact on your vehicle’s fuel economy and overall performance.
Reasons: The gas cap plays an important role in maintaining pressure within the fuel system. If it is loose or damaged, air can enter the system and disrupt the proper fuel-to-air ratio needed for efficient combustion.
Symptoms/Signs: In addition to the flashing cruise control light, you may also notice other symptoms such as decreased fuel efficiency, unusual smells from the exhaust, and potential engine misfires.
Solutions: Fortunately, this is an easy fix that can be done by simply tightening or replacing the gas cap. However, if the issue persists, it is advisable to have a mechanic inspect the fuel system for any potential leaks or damage.
Faulty sensors
Modern vehicles are equipped with various sensors that monitor different aspects of engine performance and communicate with the onboard computer.
If one of these sensors malfunctions, it can cause a false warning light to appear on your dashboard.
Reasons: Variety of reasons involved such as electrical issues, dirt or debris buildup, or general wear and tear.
Symptoms/Signs: Along with the flashing cruise control light, you may also notice other warning lights such as the check engine light, low tire pressure light, or traction control light.
Your vehicle’s performance may also be affected, with symptoms like rough idling, decreased power, or difficulty shifting.
Solutions: Diagnosing and fixing a faulty sensor can be complex and requires specialized equipment. It is best to have a professional mechanic perform an inspection and replace any malfunctioning sensors if needed.
Electrical issues
Many modern vehicles rely heavily on electrical components for various systems and functions. Any disruptions in the electrical system can cause warning lights to appear on your dashboard.
Reasons: Common causes of electrical issues include corrosion or damage to wiring and connections, faulty fuses or relays, and battery problems.
Symptoms/Signs: Aside from the flashing cruise control light, electrical issues can also cause other warning lights to illuminate and affect your vehicle’s performance.
You may experience difficulties starting your car, flickering headlights, or dim interior lights.
Solutions: If you suspect an electrical issue is causing the flashing cruise control light, it is best to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the problem.
Attempting to fix electrical issues yourself can be dangerous and potentially make the problem worse.
Damaged vacuum hoses
The cruise control system uses vacuum pressure to regulate the speed of your vehicle. If there is a leak or damage in the vacuum hoses, it can lead to issues with the cruise control.
Reasons: Vacuum hoses can become damaged over time due to wear and tear, extreme temperatures, or exposure to chemicals or debris.
Symptoms/Signs: In addition to the flashing cruise control light, you may also experience a loss of power when using the cruise control, as well as difficulty maintaining a consistent speed.
Solutions: A professional mechanic will need to inspect and replace any damaged vacuum hoses in order for the cruise control system to function properly again.
Faulty speed sensor
The cruise control system uses information from the vehicle’s speed sensor to maintain a constant speed. If the speed sensor is faulty or malfunctioning, it can cause issues with the cruise control.
Reasons: The speed sensor can become damaged due to wear and tear, exposure to extreme temperatures, or electrical problems.
Symptoms/Signs: In addition to the flashing cruise control light, you may also notice that your vehicle is unable to maintain a steady speed, or that the cruise control cuts out unexpectedly.
Solutions: A professional mechanic will need to diagnose and replace any faulty speed sensors in order for the cruise control system to function properly again.
Malfunctioning throttle position sensor
The throttle position sensor, or TPS, is responsible for sending information to the vehicle’s computer about the position of the throttle. This helps regulate the engine’s performance and can also impact the cruise control system.
Reasons: The TPS can become damaged over time due to wear and tear, exposure to extreme temperatures, or electrical issues.
Symptoms/Signs: A malfunctioning TPS can cause issues with the cruise control system, such as an inability to maintain a constant speed or sudden changes in speed while using cruise control.
Solutions: A professional mechanic will need to inspect and replace any faulty TPS sensors in order for the cruise control system to function properly again. Regular maintenance and inspections can help catch any issues with the TPS early on.
Faulty cruise control module
The cruise control module is the brain of the entire system, responsible for controlling and regulating speed based on input from various sensors. If this module becomes faulty, it can cause issues with the functionality of the cruise control.
Reasons: The cruise control module can become damaged due to electrical problems or software malfunctions.
Symptoms/Signs: A failing cruise control module may result in unexpected changes in speed while using cruise control or the complete failure of the system altogether.
Solutions: Replacing the faulty cruise control module is necessary in order for the system to function properly again.
Worn out clutch or transmission components
In vehicles with manual transmissions, the cruise control system relies on the clutch and transmission components to maintain a constant speed.
If these components become worn out or damaged, it can cause issues with the cruise control functionality.
Reasons: The constant use of the clutch and transmission while using cruise control can lead to wear and tear over time.
Symptoms/Signs: A worn out clutch or transmission components may result in difficulty maintaining a steady speed while using cruise control, or complete failure of the system.
Solutions: Replacing worn out parts with high quality replacements is necessary in order for the cruise control system to function properly again. It is important to have these replacements installed by a trained professional.
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