Whether you're commuting along the motorway or simply tackling a long journey, cruise control in a car can make driving more comfortable and less tiring.
Not only can it reduce driver fatigue, but it can also help improve fuel efficiency and reduce the risk of accidentally exceeding the speed limit.
In this guide, we'll explain how cruise control works, the difference between standard and Adaptive Cruise Control, and when it's safe to use it.
Cruise control is a driver assistance system available on many modern vehicles. It allows you to set and maintain a chosen speed limit without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal.
Once activated, cruise control will ensure your vehicle continues travelling at your selected speed until you decide to change it or deactivate the system. If you enter a different speed limit, you can easily adjust the cruise control speed limit using the controls usually found on the steering wheel.
With standard cruise control, the system does not react to traffic ahead. If you catch up to a slower-moving vehicle, you'll need to brake manually or switch off cruise control until it's safe to resume your chosen speed.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) builds on traditional cruise control by automatically adjusting your speed to suit the traffic around you.
Using radar sensors and cameras, the system continuously monitors the vehicle ahead. If traffic slows down, Adaptive Cruise Control will automatically reduce your speed to maintain a safe, pre-set following distance. Once the road clears or the vehicle in front speeds up or moves out of your lane, your vehicle will smoothly return to your chosen cruising speed.
Cruise control works by using electronic sensors and speed detectors to maintain a constant speed. Adaptive Cruise Control works by using radar sensors and cameras to monitor the traffic ahead.
When you activate your car cruise control, it records your current speed and electronically controls the vehicle's throttle to keep you travelling at that speed. The system continually monitors your speed and automatically makes small adjustments if you encounter slight inclines or declines, helping to maintain a smooth, consistent pace.
On most Ford vehicles, cruise control can be activated once you're travelling above 20 mph.
Cruise control on cars offers several advantages:
While it is a useful feature, there are some limitations to cruise control on cars:
If you need to know how to set cruise control in your car, you should refer to your handbook, as the exact controls vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
To activate Ford Adaptive Cruise Control:
You can override your car cruise control at any time by pressing either the brake or accelerator pedal. This will temporarily deactivate cruise control; you will usually need to reset it when you're ready to continue.
Cruise control is most effective when driving in steady traffic conditions, such as:
Avoid using cruise control in situations where road conditions require constant speed adjustments or heightened driver focus, such as:
Cruise control for cars is designed to make driving easier, not to replace the driver.
Always stay alert, keep both hands on the steering wheel and remain ready to brake or accelerate whenever necessary. If road, traffic or weather conditions become unpredictable, it's safest to switch off cruise control and take full control of the vehicle.
When used appropriately and correctly, cruise control - especially Adaptive Cruise Control - can make every journey smoother, more comfortable and more efficient.
Most new Ford vehicles come with Cruise Control as standard or optional extra, including the Ford Focus, Ford Kuga and Ford Transit.
If you'd like to learn more about Ford cars with cruise control and other driver assistance features, the team at Foray Motor Group will be happy to help you find the right model for your driving needs.
What does cruise control do?
Cars with cruise control automatically maintain a set speed without the driver needing to keep the accelerator pressed. It reduces driver fatigue and improves fuel efficiency.
Does cruise control use more fuel?
Cruise control can improve fuel efficiency on motorways and A roads because it maintains a constant speed. However, it may use more fuel on hilly or winding routes, as the system can apply more throttle than a driver would to maintain the set speed when climbing hills or accelerating out of bends
Should you use cruise control at 30 mph?
Cruise control can be used at 30 mph, but it isn't recommended in urban areas because frequent speed changes and the need to brake or adjust your speed make it impractical to use.
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