Many drivers love the convenience of cruise control, especially on long highway trips. If you own a Jeep Cherokee, you probably want to know how to use cruise control correctly. This feature helps you maintain a steady speed, reduce fatigue, and improve fuel efficiency. But using cruise control isn’t just about pressing a button—there are some important steps and safety tips you should know. This guide will help you learn how to use cruise control in your Jeep Cherokee, avoid common mistakes, and get the most out of this helpful tool.
Understanding Cruise Control In Jeep Cherokee
Cruise control is an automatic system that keeps your vehicle speed constant without using the accelerator. Most Jeep Cherokees come with standard cruise control or adaptive cruise control (ACC), depending on the model and year.
| Feature | Standard Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed Maintenance | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Braking | No | Yes |
| Distance Control | No | Yes |
| Available Models | Most trims | Higher trims (Limited, Overland, etc.) |
Standard cruise control keeps your Jeep at a set speed. Adaptive cruise control goes further, adjusting your speed if there is a car in front of you.
How To Activate Cruise Control
Getting started with cruise control is simple, but make sure you follow each step carefully.
- Reach desired speed: Drive at least 25 mph (most systems require this minimum speed).
- Locate the cruise control buttons: Usually found on the steering wheel. Look for the ON/OFF, SET, RES (Resume), and CANCEL buttons.
- Press ON: Activate the cruise control system. An indicator light will show on your dashboard.
- Set your speed: Press SET once you reach your chosen speed. The system will keep your Jeep at this speed.
- Adjust speed: Use the + (increase) or – (decrease) buttons to change your speed in small increments.
- Cancel or turn off: Tap the CANCEL button, press the brake pedal, or turn off the system to deactivate cruise control.
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| ON/OFF | Activates or deactivates system |
| SET | Sets current speed |
| RES | Resumes previous speed |
| CANCEL | Pauses system |
| + / – | Adjusts speed up or down |
Tip: If your Jeep Cherokee has adaptive cruise control, there will also be buttons to adjust the distance from cars ahead.
Using Adaptive Cruise Control (acc)
If your Jeep Cherokee is equipped with ACC, you can set both your speed and the following distance. The system uses sensors to detect cars ahead, slowing down or speeding up as needed.
- Activate ACC: Press the ON button, then SET your speed.
- Set distance: Use the distance setting button to choose how close you want to follow other cars (usually three or four options).
- Driving: ACC will automatically slow your Jeep if traffic is ahead and speed back up when the road clears.
- Manual override: You can always brake or accelerate to override ACC.
Example: If you set your speed at 65 mph and select a medium following distance, ACC will keep your Jeep at 65 mph unless a slower vehicle appears. Then, it will reduce your speed and keep a safe gap.
Safety Tips And Common Mistakes
Cruise control can make driving easier, but you need to use it wisely. Here are some important tips and mistakes to avoid:
- Never use cruise control in heavy traffic. It’s safest on clear highways.
- Avoid using it in rain, snow, or icy conditions. Slippery roads can make cruise control dangerous.
- Always stay alert. Cruise control does not replace driver attention.
- Know how to cancel quickly. Practice using the brake to turn off cruise control fast.
- Do not use cruise control on winding or hilly roads. Your Jeep may speed up or slow down unexpectedly.
Non-obvious insight: Some drivers forget that cruise control can increase stopping distance, especially at higher speeds. Always leave extra room in front.
Another tip: Adaptive cruise control sensors can get dirty, which may cause the system to fail. Check the sensor area under your front bumper regularly.
Practical Benefits Of Using Cruise Control
Cruise control offers several benefits for Jeep Cherokee drivers:
- Reduces driver fatigue: You don’t need to keep your foot on the gas pedal.
- Improves fuel economy: Maintaining a steady speed saves gas. According to the US Department of Energy, using cruise control can improve fuel efficiency by up to 7%.
- Helps avoid speeding: Your Jeep stays at the set speed, making it easier to follow speed limits.
| Driving Without Cruise Control | Driving With Cruise Control |
|---|---|
| Speed changes often | Speed stays steady |
| More fatigue | Less fatigue |
| Lower fuel efficiency | Higher fuel efficiency |
| Risk of speeding | Speed limit is easier to follow |
Troubleshooting Cruise Control
If cruise control isn’t working in your Jeep Cherokee, check these steps:
- Check the fuse: A blown fuse can stop cruise control from working.
- Inspect brake lights: If your brake lights don’t work, cruise control may be disabled.
- Sensor issues: Adaptive cruise control needs clean sensors. Dirt or ice can block them.
- Software updates: Sometimes, the system needs an update from the dealer.
If you can’t fix the problem, contact your Jeep dealership for help. For more technical guidance, see the Jeep Owners Manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Jeep Cherokee Has Adaptive Cruise Control?
Look for a distance control button near the cruise control buttons. Also, check your dashboard for ACC symbols, or see your vehicle’s manual.
Can I Use Cruise Control In City Driving?
No. Cruise control is best for highways. City driving has frequent stops and turns, making cruise control unsafe and impractical.
What Happens If I Press The Brake While Cruise Control Is On?
Cruise control will deactivate immediately if you press the brake pedal. This is a built-in safety feature.
How Can I Increase Or Decrease My Set Speed?
Use the + or – buttons on your steering wheel. Each press usually changes your speed by 1 mph. Hold the button for larger changes.
Is Cruise Control Safe For New Drivers?
Cruise control can help new drivers, but only on safe, open roads. Beginners should practice activating and canceling cruise control in low-traffic conditions first.
With the right steps and safety awareness, using cruise control in your Jeep Cherokee can make every long drive easier and safer. Always stay alert, follow the tips above, and enjoy the benefits of this smart driving feature.
