Everyone enjoys long drives, but after sometime constantly pressing the accelerator make you tire. And to reduce this tiring and make driving more easy, Cruise Control were introduce. Under the Cruise Control your cars can run on steady speed by its own, so you can get more comfort while driving. Want to know more about, Cruise Control like how it work, how to use it, etc. then read the simple guide below.
What is Cruise Control?
The very first thing to know, what is Cruise Control. Well, the Cruise control is a system in a car that allows you to fix your vehicle speed without pressing the accelerator pedal.
For example, if you set your speed at 65 km/h, the car will continue to move at that speed on its own. You don’t need to keep your foot on the accelerator. And this make driving easier, especially during long highway journeys.
How Cruise Control Works?
After knowing about the Cruise Control, now its time to understand how cruise control works in your car. For this you need to know that the modern cars are control by an onboard computer call the Electronic Control Unit (ECU). This ECU system manages different functions of the car, including engine performance and throttle control. So, how this cruise control works with ECU to know this continue reading:
Setting the Speed
Suppose you are driving at normal speed and want to drive at speed 60, 65, or any km/h. Then first reach the speed you want, after that press set option. And the system now fix this speed.
System Takes Control
As you set the speed, the cruise control system takes control of the accelerator. Now, you need not to press accelerator or need not to use your foot because the Cruise Control system does this automatically.
Sensors Monitor Speed
Now, your car sensors starting working which constantly check the speed. How this work, suppose your speed goes down like when you are going uphill then your system increases engine power. And if the speed goes up for downhill like situation, then the system reduces power. This is how Sensors Monitor Speed.
Maintaining Constant Speed
After sensors speed control, the next part is Constant Speed. Well, the system keeps adjusting the throttle to make sure your car stays at the same speed. So, you do not need to do anything.
Cancelling the System
Many drivers want to know how to stop it or cancel this system. For that you simply need to press the brake or cancel button and the system stops working. After that you can take control again.
Types of Cruise Control
Another important question by many car owners is what are the types of cruise control. There are mainly two types of cruise control systems:
Basic Cruise Control
By the name it is clear that this is very normal and found in almost every car. This type of Cruise Control do simple things like:
- Maintains fixed speed.
- Does not detect other vehicles.
- Driver must brake manually.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Adaptive cruise control is a more advanced version which is part of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This system is much smarter as ACC not only maintains speed but also adjusts it according to the traffic ahead. Benefits of ACC:
- Maintains the set speed when the road is clear.
- Detects vehicles ahead using sensors or radar.
- Automatically slows down or speeds up.
- Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
After a upgradation in Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), this new Cruise Control is introduce. This mainly found in premium cars and very useful in heavy traffic conditions. Understand working by below points:
- Slows down the car automatically in traffic.
- Can bring the car to a complete stop.
- Automatically moves again when traffic starts.
- Reduces driver effort in stop-and-go situations.
Predictive Cruise Control
This is most advance advanced type which is usually available in high-end vehicles. Yes, this Predictive Cruise Control uses map data and GPS to understand the road ahead and adjust the speed accordingly. Working is like:
- Uses GPS and navigation data.
- Adjusts speed before curves or slopes.
- Improves safety and smooth driving.
- Prepares the car for upcoming road conditions.
Other Additional Cruise Control
- Semi-Adaptive / Distance Control Cruise – Just like ACC, but maintains distance but may not fully stop. Found in some mid-level systems only.
- Intelligent Cruise Control – Nothing new just another adaptive cruise control with some extra upgrade. Many call it a just marketing by brands.
- Traffic Jam Assist (Extension of ACC) – Works at very low speeds, helps in bumper-to-bumper traffic, and combines steering + braking in some cars.
How to Use Cruise Control in Your Car?
You may already get the idea of using the cruise control by its working. Using cruise control is very easy once you understand the working steps. Still, here are simple steps that will help you to use Cruise Control in you car:
- Drive your car normally and reach a comfortable speed you want cruise control like 70 km/h.
- Press the cruise control button which usually located on the steering wheel.
- Now, set the speed by press the “SET” button. Now the ECU locks this speed.
- Remove your foot from the accelerator.
- Adjust Speed by “+” to increase speed and “–” to decrease speed. The system will adjust speed automatically.
- At last cancel cruise control when you want manual control. This can be done by pressing the brake or pressing “CANCEL” or Turning off the system.
- If Resume Function is available, then press “RESUME” to return to the previous speed.
When Should You Use Cruise Control?
This question is ask by many new car owners and drivers. The Best Time to Use Cruise Control is when the road conditions are smooth and predictable. As this is mainly design for long drives on smooth highways.
So, one must use cruise control on highways, long straight roads, and when traffic is light. Also, check weather as in clear and visible weather cruise control is good.
Advantages of Cruise Control
- Makes long drives less tiring.
- No need to keep your foot on the accelerator.
- Keeps the car at a steady speed.
- Helps save fuel on highways.
- Driving feels smooth and relaxed.
- Helps you avoid overspeeding.
- More useful in cars with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.
When You Should Not Use Cruise Control?
As per car makers and experts, there are many situations where you should not use cruise control. This may not like by everyone but experience drivers reveals that one should avoid using cruise control in heavy traffic or city roads where vehicles keep stopping and moving.
Some also advice that during rain, fog, or on slippery roads one should not use Cruise Control because the car may not respond properly. All those who is driving on hilly roads or roads with animals & pedestrians must not use Cruise Control, as sudden braking may require which cancel it again and again.
Safety Tips While Using Cruise Control
This is known to all that the cruise control makes driving easier, but this does not mean you can relax. Still you need to stay alert and in control at all times. Driver should keep his hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road. As we mention above, one do not use use cruise control in bad weather and never depend completely on the system.