Cruise control - what it is and how it works

Cruise control is an additional function in the car that allows you to maintain speed at a certain level and not keep your foot on the accelerator pedal. This option is implemented by installing a separate module or by preliminary introducing a special program into the on-board computer at the stage of assembling the machine. On many modern cars (mainly manufactured in the USA and EU countries), cruise control is already included in the basic package. In Russia, this function is an addition to serial machines.

How cruise control works

This device controls the throttle in automatic mode, increasing or removing throttle. But first, the driver determines the speed, the system remembers it and then acts autonomously. However, cruise control functions are not limited to this. The system reduces the speed on long descents, "keeps" the distance in relation to the car moving ahead at a lower speed.

The inclusion of the option on most cars is carried out using buttons (less often it is a special lever on the steering column, as in Mercedes). Pressing the clutch again increases the speed, and when the brake pedal is applied, the clutch will disengage the cruise control. The option is of two types.

Passive

This is the most common and inexpensive option. The task of such a system is to maintain the speed chosen by the driver. But it is not possible to automatically control the driving mode. You will have to slow down and accelerate yourself, after which the cruise control will maintain the required speed.

Adaptive system

Unlike passive, in addition to supporting a given driving mode, it takes into account the quality of the road surface, controls the distance to the car in front, “studies” the markings, and reduces speed when maneuvering. That is, it is somewhat reminiscent of an "autopilot". Such opportunities appeared due to the integration of a radar, video cameras and a control electronic module into the on-board computer. Adaptive systems, in turn, are divided into two types:

• ✅ Laser - they are less expensive, but they do not work satisfactorily in cloudy weather, fog, the laser does not “see” heavily polluted cars
  
• ✅ Radar - they use radio waves devoid of the above disadvantages
  

The sensors are mounted behind the decorative grille and continuously send signals, "scanning" the space in front of them. If a car is close, a signal is sent to the control unit requiring a reduction in speed. Another plus of the system is fuel economy. And this is obvious: at a constant speed with uniform movement, less is consumed.

Is cruise control dangerous?

The negative sides of the option should be paid attention to those who rely too much on electronics and allow themselves to relax when the option is on, not properly assessing the traffic situation.

Another danger is heavy rain and, as a result, wet roads. Hydroplaning (this is when the wheels do not drive on asphalt, but on a water film) occurs at a speed close to 90 km / h (under certain conditions, the process can start even earlier, at 50-60 km / h). In this case, it should be gradually reduced. But how to do it with cruise control on? Yes, you can press the brake and the option will be disabled, but it is not recommended to use this pedal when skidding. You need to deactivate the cruise control as soon as it starts to rain. Automakers in their instructions explicitly prohibit the use of cruise control in the event of rain, snowfall, icy roads and other weather troubles.





In urban areas, the option is useless. Constantly changing speed, approaching the car in front very close - all this requires turning off the cruise control. Therefore, if most of the trips are made in the city, it is worth considering whether you need this add-on?

What to do if cruise control is not working

The best option is to go to a service where there is diagnostic computer equipment. But first, you should try to fix the situation on your own:

• ✅ check the integrity of the corresponding fuse
  
• ✅ evaluate the tightness of the tube going from the vacuum booster to the brake system
  
• ✅ check the health of the contacts on the control buttons and the limit switch under the brake pedal, as well as the integrity of the connecting wires
  

Self-equipped auto cruise control

Quite a real thing if you have experience in doing similar work. If not, it’s better not to take it: electronics are a delicate matter and it’s not difficult to damage it. You can install the system on a car with a manual or automatic transmission. But first you need to buy a kit. Its cost fluctuates in the range of 8-20 thousand rubles.

How to install cruise control

For example, you can take a couple of Russian-made sets of average cost - 8600 and 11200 rubles. (Drivenge and Jet-cruise KH). From the instructions for both systems, it can be seen that the manufacturers declared approximately the same capabilities that the machine will have after installing the kit. All the "joys" of cruise control are described above, but in both sets there is an addition - a "jetter" or a booster pedal. What it is?

After installing any of these devices, the engine will instantly respond to the position of the gas pedal. It seems that the motor has become more torquey. However, this is just an illusion, because the “firmware” does not change the ECU parameters. Here only the characteristic of the pedal itself is corrected. With its same position, more fuel enters the cylinders and the acceleration intensity does not increase at all. This addition will not cause harm to the car, and the benefits are very doubtful.

The different cost of the kits is determined by the ease of installation and use. A more expensive device installs faster and has the form of a remote control that can be placed anywhere, since it is powered by batteries.

Cost of installation of cruise control

It all depends on the brand of car in which the option will be connected and the components of the kit itself. Take for example the Kia Ceed ED, released in 2009-2012. Installation of the turnkey system, taking into account the firmware of the instrument panel, will cost:

• ✅ for a car with a 5-speed "mechanics" - 9 thousand rubles.
  
• ✅ for cars with manual transmission6 or "automatic" - 7 thousand rubles. (without indication connection - 5,5 thousand rubles)
  
• ✅ connecting individual buttons - 3 thousand rubles.
  

Sometimes in the services you will be offered to buy your kit. In some cases, this entails discounts on the cost of work and an increased warranty.

What did you get in the end

When installed on a car with a manual transmission, there is a small inconvenience: the device will reset the settings with each gear change. Changing the driving mode is done by pressing the gas or buttons. The option is disabled when depressing the clutch or braking. Range of controlled speeds: 20-160 km/h (may be different in different devices).

Set or not?

It is impossible to say for sure. Fans of electronic "innovations" may like the system and the negative associated with the high price, installation difficulties, will fade into the background. But do not forget that no one will like interference in car electronics: neither a car service (you can say goodbye to a guarantee), nor the law.