Everything You Need to Know To Use Cruise Control Correctly

Cruise control seems simple enough. Press the button, sit back and let the car keep you at a steady speed while you head down the highway. You don't have to deal with an aching foot when you arrive at your destination and can enjoy economical fuel consumption without the ups and downs of manual control.

There is a lot to consider before you set your drive, however, and a few steps you should take to make your automated speed assistant do its best for you. Start by understanding why cruise control exists in the first place.

This convenient feature was invented in 1948 — that’s right, 1948 — when American engineer Ralph Teetor wanted to devise a solution to the stop-and-start driving style his lawyer and other drivers often adopted. He found riding with his lawyer uncomfortable and created a motorized solution that would help drivers maintain a consistent speed on the road.

Modern cruise control, monitored by sophisticated computers used in almost every vehicle today, runs smoother and can anticipate more adjustments when coupled with other technology advances, including adjusting steering if the car crosses the yellow line or braking the car if it approaches an object too rapidly. So how do you engage cruise control in a way that ensures you are getting the most from the option?

Evaluate the Road

Remember that cruise control is best used on long stretches of highway driving. It is not built for city or suburban driving conditions. When you are on the highway, consider the environment. Are you driving in a storm or a simple rain shower? Is anything affecting your ability to see what’s ahead? Are you approaching traffic or among a crowd of cars? Is the road constructed of asphalt recycling material or is gravel or brick? Cruise control is best used when conditions are clear and lanes are relatively open.

Set Your Speed

Once you are comfortable with the road conditions, accelerate to your desired cruising speed. Remember that cruise control is built to work most effectively when it is set within the 55 to 70 miles-per-hour range. Engage cruise control by activating the system and setting it at your cruising speed. Slowly remove your foot from the accelerator to ensure the system has control.

Remain an Active Driver

Cruise control is not an autopilot. It cannot see what is ahead on the road and, unless it is coupled with automated braking and visual safety systems, will not brake for slowed traffic. Remain an active driver by watching the road and making adjustments as you go.

Most cruise control systems provide hand-controlled accelerators, typically switches on the steering wheel, that allow the driver to accelerate or decelerate in predetermined increments, like three miles per hour. Use the switches to pass vehicles or slow with traffic.

When necessary, disengage the cruise control by turning the system off or tapping on the brake. This allows you to take over manual control and safely enter unexpected road conditions, such as traffic or a debris field.

Also, consider your driving personality. Many drivers become fatigued more quickly when cruise control is in operation. If cruise control is more likely to make you too relaxed behind the wheel, consider sticking with manual control.

Remember Cruise Control Is “Dumb”

Driver safety experts try to remind car owners that cruise control is dumb. That is to say, the system is not built to replace the driver but to only provide some relief from continuous vehicle operation. It cannot recognize slippery road conditions, for example, and could accelerate or decelerate unexpectedly, causing an accident.

Cruise control is there to help drivers avoid the aches and pains of long-distance driving. It can also provide better fuel mileage, helping maintain the life of the vehicle. It is not meant to replace the driver’s skill or instincts and should be used judiciously and under the right conditions. Following the rules of the road and employing cruise control at the right time, however, can be a welcome experience for drivers.