cruise control stopped working

ANSWER : The problem you are describing likely stems from an intermittent electrical fault in the wiper circuit. The windshield wiper system uses a small electric motor to move the wiper arms that you see on the windshield. That electric motor is controlled through a switch, relay, fuse, and wiring. One, or more, of those electrical components has failed although it is also possible that the mechanical arms are binding (seized, if the lubricant has dried out) thus causing the electric circuit to the motor to overload. Regardless of the underlying fault, if you request a non functioning wiper diagnostic/repair, the responding certified mechanic will get this taken care of for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hello. This can be caused by a number of different issues. Most of the time this is caused by a bad brake switch. If the switch is shorting out, then it will cause the computer to think that the brakes are being applied, which turns off the cruise control. If the switch is fine, then it may have a bad speed sensor or the cruise control switch itself is bad.

One of the easiest tests I do is simply have someone drive behind me and see if the brake lights are coming on without touching the pedal. If it is, then you should replace the switch. If not, then further testing of the circuit has to be done. If you need to have this done, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to your home or office to diagnose your cruise control problem.

ANSWER : The cruise control switch could have an issue and may have shorted the contacts inside the switch terminals. For the engine stalling after pushing on the throttle pedal, there could be either a vacuum leak on the engine or the air idle control valve could be stuck causing the idle to not return correctly. Check all of the vacuum lines and the brake booster for any vacuum leaks. Tighten all of the intake bolts to ensure that they are tight and not loose. A loose intake bolt, broken or cracked vacuum hose will cause the engine idle to run erratic making the idle not steady. If you need more assistance with your engine idle issue, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

ANSWER : The unfortunate truth is the dealer is correct. What you are doing is in theory feasible but not common at all. I haven’t run across anyone who has done what you are doing and I have often wondered how such an endeavor might work. My point here is, I am not surprised the dealer isn’t sure because it’s likely they have never done this themselves. The dealer doesn’t set up the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) in the cars they sell. The manufacturer does and guessing what happened when a car is being built is not common knowledge.

Anytime you modify any car, there are always details such as this that you will possibly have to address. When you choose to modify a car, you are now the engineer. The simple answer is that I can’t tell you with certainty whether or not the PCM in your car has cruise control capability. The only way to find out is to allow the dealer to check in out. Independent shops might possibly be able to, but the equipment they have is aftermarket and not produced by Mazda. The electronic equipment the dealer has is. The dealer equipment will most likely be able to do what you need.

ANSWER : The blower switch and the plug connection on the back of the switch, as well as a faulty blower motor are likely, too. I would check the blower motor first as you can easily power the motor directly to see if it runs. If the circuit includes a blower motor resistor block, of course be sure to check if the resistor block has continuity (specified resistance in ohms) at each position. If the blower motor runs, I would check the switch as occasionally there will be a bad connection at the switch that eventually causes the blower not to work. The relay is easy to test and if it works consistently as commanded, you can assume there is no intermittent fault. Obviously, check the fuse in the circuit, too, but if the fuse is bad, that means there is a problem in the circuit that will have to be repaired. Fuses blow due to electrical faults (e,g., short circuits). If you desire, a certified mechanic from YourMechanic can diagnose the problem you are having in an electrical component diagnostic.

ANSWER : Hi there. In both cases, when an AC system is not working and a warning light is coming on the dashboard, typically a professional mechanic will complete the same initial inspection, which is to download the stored error codes that triggered the warning light initially. This tends to give them an idea as to what is causing the problems. This could be something as simple as an electrical relay that is faulty or loose or an indication of a computer related "glitch". Either way, the best way to move forward is to have a professional mobile mechanic complete a check engine light inspection.

ANSWER : I just reviewed your cruise control system and it shows you have two switches that deactivate the cruise control. The one on the master brake cylinder and the other on the brake lever above the brake pedal. The vehicle may or may not have the one on the master cylinder but all have the one on the brake pedal lever. You will need to check the connector to the one on the brake lever to make sure no wires are broken. To replace the switch, you will need to disconnect the connector and remove the security clip that holds it on and remove and install the new switch. If you need assistance with this, a technician from YourMechanic can come to your home or office to perform a cruise control switch replacement.

ANSWER : Hi there, thanks for writing in. Usually the P0717 OBD-II error code is associated with a speed sensor problem inside the transmission. This part helps to monitor the cruise control along with the speedometer. If the sensor is damaged or has a loose fitting wire harness, it will disable the cruise control first as a safety measure; but allow the speedometer to work in many cases. The best way to know for sure is to contact one of our mechanics to replace your speed sensor, or inspect the vehicle for cruise control issues.