Cruise control system description [Toyota RAV4 XA20]

1. The cruise control system maintains the vehicle's speed using an electrically driven servomotor located in the engine compartment. This motor is connected by a cable to the throttle lever. The system executes commands from the ECM powertrain control module, which in turn processes information received from the brake light contact sensor (on the brake pedal), vehicle speed sensor, steering wheel controls. The system also contains wiring that connects these elements and various relays together. Checking some system parameters requires the use of special testers and diagnostic procedures, the description of which is beyond the scope of this Manual. Below is information that can be used to troubleshoot the most common problems with the system.

2. Check the fuses (see paragraph 3).

3. Ask an assistant to press the brake pedal and observe the operation of the brake lights. Check that the servo is disengaged (the signal from the brake light contact sensor should turn off the cruise control).

4. If the brake lights do not come on or do not turn off, troubleshoot and retest the cruise control.

5. Visually check the condition of the drive cables from the servo motor to the throttle valve. There shouldn't be any jamming. Replace the faulty cable (see Figure 21.5).



6. The cruise control system uses signals from the vehicle speed sensor (VSS). Additional information about the sensor is available in chapter 6A or 6B.

7. Test drive the vehicle to check the cruise control. If the system still doesn't work, take it to a specialized repair shop.