Written by Andrei Zakhareuski. With over 16 years of expertise, Andrei leads Driving-Tests.org, a top online resource for driver education. His leadership has established vital partnerships with over 2,600 libraries, educational bodies, and state agencies.

Cruise control is a valuable feature in many modern vehicles, enhancing convenience and efficiency, especially during long drives. This guide delves into the intricacies of using cruise control, offering expert insights, technical details, safety tips, and more.

Photo of a car dashboard with the cruise control stalk

Understanding Cruise Control

What is Cruise Control?

Cruise control is an electronic system that allows a vehicle to maintain a steady speed set by the driver. Cruise control is designed to be used on roadways without frequent stops. It’s ideal for use on highways and long stretches of road with minimal stops or turns.

Types of Cruise Control

  • Standard cruise control maintains a set speed until manually overridden.
  • Advanced systems, like adaptive cruise control, automatically adjust speed based on traffic conditions.

Operating Cruise Control

  • Setting Up

  • Activating

  • Adjusting Speed

Before activating cruise control, ensure conditions are safe. It’s not advisable to use cruise control in hazardous weather or heavy traffic.

Cruise control activation

Safety Tips

Advanced Features

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Comparative Analysis of Modern Cruise Control Systems

In the realm of modern vehicles, cruise control systems have evolved significantly, offering a range of functionalities tailored to enhance driving experience and safety. Here’s a comparative analysis of several popular systems.

Each system has its strengths and caters to different driving needs and preferences. Tesla’s FSD Beta is at the forefront of autonomy but requires active supervision. GM’s Super Cruise excels in hands-free highway driving, while Ford’s Co-Pilot360 focuses on safety and driver assistance for everyday use. Mercedes-Benz and BMW offer systems that blend convenience, safety, and a step towards higher autonomy, maintaining a balance between automated and manual driving.

This comparison highlights the diversity in cruise control technologies, illustrating how each brand tailors its system to specific driving experiences and safety standards.

Real-World Impact

Cruise control technology not only adds convenience to driving but also significantly impacts safety and efficiency. This section delves into the real-world implications of using cruise control, supported by safety statistics and research findings.

The integration of cruise control in vehicles has been a game-changer in terms of driving safety and efficiency. Here are some key impacts:

  • Reduced Driver Fatigue: Continuous concentration over long drives can lead to driver fatigue, a leading cause of road accidents. Cruise control allows drivers to maintain a constant speed without constant pedal adjustment, reducing the physical and mental strain during long journeys.

  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: By maintaining a steady speed, cruise control helps in reducing fuel consumption. Studies have shown that erratic speed variations can lead to higher fuel consumption, whereas maintaining a consistent speed optimizes fuel efficiency.

  • Safety Statistics: Research indicates that the use of cruise control can lead to a reduction in speed-related accidents. However, it’s crucial to note that over-reliance on cruise control in inappropriate conditions (like city driving or in heavy traffic) can negate these safety benefits.

  • Impact on Traffic Flow: When used widely, cruise control can contribute to smoother traffic flow on highways. Consistent speeds help in reducing the frequency of braking and acceleration among vehicles, leading to less congestion and smoother traffic movement.

It’s important to balance the use of cruise control with active driving engagement, ensuring that safety is always the top priority.


For a deeper understanding of cruise control and its various aspects, it’s always beneficial to refer to your vehicle’s manual and seek guidance from automotive professionals.