Have you ever noticed your Subaru’s cruise control light flashing? It can be quite disconcerting. Don’t worry, it’s probably nothing serious.
In this article, you’ll learn what could be causing the flashing light and how to fix it. We’ll also discuss some other issues related to cruise control, so you can be better prepared if something similar happens in the future.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- The flashing cruise control light in a Subaru could be caused by various issues such as a faulty brake switch, malfunctioning speed sensor, or blown fuse.
- Other potential causes include a failing brake pedal switch, traction control system issues, malfunctioning mechanical components, and failed control module, sensor, or switch issues.
- Throttle actuation problems and dirty or malfunctioning cameras (in the case of adaptive cruise control) can also lead to a flashing cruise control light.
- Before visiting a service center, there are a few solutions to try such as replacing the brake switch, replacing the gas cap, disconnecting the positive battery cable and stepping on the brake pedal, and using an OBDII reader for diagnostic information. However, if the issue persists, it is recommended to visit an authorized Subaru service center for professional diagnosis and repair.
A brief explanation of the issue
If you’re driving a Subaru with cruise control, you may have noticed that the light on the dashboard is flashing. The flashing cruise control light can be caused by a number of issues, including:
- A faulty brake switch
- An electrical fault in the vehicle
- A malfunctioning cruise control system
- A loose or faulty connection in the wiring harness.
Troubleshooting the issue requires an experienced mechanic to diagnose and repair.
Causes of Flashing Cruise Control Light
If your Subaru’s cruise control light is flashing, it may be due to a malfunctioning speed sensor. This sensor is responsible for detecting the speed of the vehicle and relaying that information to the cruise control system. If the sensor is not working properly, it can cause the cruise control light to flash.
Another potential cause of a flashing cruise control light is a blown fuse. The fuse that controls the cruise control system may have blown, preventing it from functioning properly. Checking and replacing the blown fuse can resolve this issue.
A failing brake pedal switch can also be a culprit behind a flashing cruise control light. The brake pedal switch is responsible for detecting when the brake pedal is depressed, which is necessary for the cruise control system to disengage.
If the switch is failing, it may not properly detect when the brake pedal is pressed, leading to a flashing cruise control light.
Lastly, an issue with the traction control system can cause the cruise control light to flash. The traction control system is closely linked to the cruise control system, and if there is a problem with the traction control system, it can trigger the cruise control light to flash.
It is important to note that these are just potential causes and that a proper diagnosis should be done by a qualified technician to accurately identify the issue and determine the appropriate solution.
Malfunctioning speed sensor
You’re likely noticing your Subaru’s cruise control light flashing because the speed sensor is malfunctioning. This could cause a variety of issues such as:
- Reduced fuel economy
- Poor acceleration
- Unstable speed control
- Erratic RPMs.
It’s best to have the speed sensor inspected and replaced if necessary to ensure your car runs smoothly and efficiently.
Blown fuse
Another possible cause of the Subaru cruise control light flashing is a blown fuse. A blown fuse is a sign that the circuit is overloaded and can’t handle the current running through it. In this case, the cruise control system may be shorting out and the fuse must be replaced in order to fix the issue.
| Component | Problem | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Fuse | Blown | Replace |
| Circuit | Overloaded | Check and fix |
Failing brake pedal switch
If the brake pedal switch has failed, it can also be the cause of the Subaru’s cruise control light flashing. The brake pedal switch is a safety feature that helps the cruise control system recognize when the brakes are being applied.
A malfunctioning switch can cause the cruise control system to not work properly, resulting in the light flashing.
Regular inspections of the switch can help identify any problems before they become dangerous. Replacing the switch when necessary can help ensure the cruise control system is working correctly and the flashing light isn’t a cause for alarm.
Traction control system issues
Besides a failing brake pedal switch, another potential cause of the Subaru’s cruise control light flashing is a malfunctioning traction control system. Here are four common culprits:
- Faulty wheel speed sensors
- Worn control unit
- Low tire pressure
- Damaged brake pedal switch.
A malfunctioning traction control system can cause the cruise control light to flash, so it’s important to have it checked by a professional to ensure safe driving.
Malfunctioning mechanical components
Apart from a faulty brake pedal switch, malfunctioning mechanical components can also be responsible for your Subaru’s cruise control light flashing. This includes a problem with the throttle control motor, the cruise control switch, the brake light switch, the cruise control actuator, and the ECU.
Malfunctioning of any of these parts can lead to a flashing cruise control light, and it’s important to get the issue resolved quickly as it can adversely affect the performance of your vehicle.
Failed control module, sensor, or switch issues
Aside from the mechanical components, a failed control module, sensor, or switch can also cause your Subaru cruise control light to flash. If any of these components fail, the cruise control light will start to flash. Here are a few common sources of this issue:
- Electrical connections wearing away
- Corroded wiring
- Malfunctioning switches
- Burned out control module.
It’s important to have your car checked by a qualified mechanic to determine the exact cause of the flashing light.
Throttle actuation problems
Frequently, issues with throttle actuation can also be the culprit behind a Subaru’s flashing cruise control light. When the cruise control light is flashing, it usually means the throttle actuator is in need of service. It can be caused by a malfunctioning throttle position sensor, a bad throttle body, or a faulty electronic throttle control unit.
In any of these cases, the throttle needs to be repaired or replaced. Proper troubleshooting is essential to identify the source of the issue and to ensure a proper repair.
Dirty or malfunctioning cameras (adaptive cruise control)
Continuing on from issues with throttle actuation, dirty or malfunctioning cameras can also be a cause of Subaru’s flashing cruise control light. Reasons include:
- Obstructions blocking the camera’s view
- Damaged camera lens
- Malfunctioning of the camera’s hardware
- Problems with the car’s software.
Dirt, grime, and corrosion can also be factors in camera failure. Be sure to have a professional check the camera’s condition to avoid further issues.
Solutions for Flashing Cruise Control Light
If you’re having trouble with your Subaru’s flashing cruise control light, don’t worry. There are several solutions you can try to get your car back to normal.
- Hook up an OBDII reader to get valuable information.
- Visit the service center at your nearest authorized Subaru dealer.
- Check or replace the brake switch.
- Even disconnect the positive battery cable for 10 minutes and step on the brake pedal for a minute.
Hook up an OBDII reader to get valuable information
Once you’ve hooked up an OBDII reader to your Subaru, you can start to get some valuable information that can help you solve why the cruise control light is flashing. It can:
- Show any trouble codes
- Help you diagnose electrical problems
- Diagnose the engine light
- Provide you with data about your vehicle’s performance.
With this information, you can get a better idea of why your cruise control light is flashing and how to fix it.
Visit the service center at your nearest authorized Subaru dealer
If you’re still unsure what the issue is after hooking up an OBDII reader, then you may want to consider visiting the service center at your nearest authorized Subaru dealer.
The staff at the center have the expertise to diagnose and repair any issues with your vehicle, and they’ll be able to provide you with insight into why the cruise control light is flashing.
They may even be able to suggest a repair or adjustment that can resolve the issue.
Taking your car to the service center is the best way to get the right advice and a quality repair.
Check/replace brake switch
Carrying on from the previous suggestion, the next solution might be to check or replace the brake switch, as it can sometimes be the source of the cruise control light flashing.
To do this, here are 4 steps to follow:
- Find the brake switch and disconnect the wires.
- Check the continuity of the switch with a multimeter.
- If the switch is defective, replace it with a new one.
- Reconnect the wires to the switch and test the cruise control light.
Disconnect the positive battery cable for 10 minutes and step on the brake pedal for a minute
Once the gas cap has been replaced, another solution to try if the cruise control light is still flashing is to disconnect the positive battery cable for 10 minutes and step on the brake pedal for a minute.
To do this:
- Find the positive battery cable.
- Unhook the cable and wait 10 minutes.
- Re-connect the cable.
- Step on the brake pedal for a minute.
This should reset the cruise control light and get your Subaru back on the road.
Final Words
It is important to check why your Subaru’s cruise control light is flashing in order to avoid any potential issues.
Taking the time to diagnose the cause of the flashing light will ensure that your car runs smoothly and safely.
Importance of checking the issue
It’s essential to get your Subaru checked as soon as possible if the cruise control light is flashing. Ignoring the issue could potentially lead to a more serious problem, such as:
- A malfunction in the car’s braking system.
- Damage to the car’s electronic components.
- An unexpected increase in fuel consumption.
- Unintended acceleration.
If you notice the cruise control light flashing, don’t hesitate to take your car to the nearest mechanic. Failing to address the issue can have costly consequences.
Be sure to get your car checked out as soon as possible.
