Cruise control issue

joniki

TJ Enthusiast
Original poster
Joined
Aug 7, 2022
Messages
236
Location
NE Indiana
2006 TJ X with 4.0 and automatic. Everything on the steering column and steering wheel works. The cruise control will not work when the engine is cold. It makes no difference if it is winter or summer. Once the engine is up to temp, the cruise will turn on and work.

I should add that the engine runs perfect, no surging or other issues. Also, no codes.

TIA...
 
Last edited:
Vacuum leak? Could be a bad gasket that seals up once thermal expansion has run its course. Check for leaks before starting up
 
Does the cruise indicated light come on the instrument cluster when you turn it on. Just thinking it might be the switch
 
Does the cruise indicated light come on the instrument cluster when you turn it on. Just thinking it might be the switch

The "cruise light" does not come on until the vehicle has warmed up. Once it is warm, everything works as it should.
 
The "cruise light" does not come on until the vehicle has warmed up. Once it is warm, everything works as it should.

IF the Cruise Light does not illuminate when the Cruise Control is switched ON; then I would start checking the steering while switches and vacuum actuator electrical connectors for oxidation. Even though everything still works properly; there is a chance the Clock Spring inside and behind the steering wheel is starting to have issues.
 
IF the Cruise Light does not illuminate when the Cruise Control is switched ON; then I would start checking the steering while switches and vacuum actuator electrical connectors for oxidation. Even though everything still works properly; there is a chance the Clock Spring inside and behind the steering wheel is starting to have issues.

All of the steering column, wheel switches check out. I will look at the vacuum actuator connectors next.
 
I can’t understand how you go from not running and a cold engine to needing cruise control before the engine heats up -

These things get up to temp before you are out of the driveway.
 
I can’t understand how you go from not running and a cold engine to needing cruise control before the engine heats up -

These things get up to temp before you are out of the driveway.

What??? Mine takes 10-15 minutes for the thermostat to open. Again, WTF???
 
wot

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I would check the wires in engine harness especially where it goes down at the back of the head.... I had problems with charging and had a shorted there.... Can rub head.... Maybe with thermal expansion it may make contact when hot and not cold... I might be grasping at straws here but it's worth it to look into.