Cruise Control System

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1996 Mercury Villager. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Speed control system is electronically controlled and vacuum operated. Major components of speed control system include servo, amplifier, diode strip, relays, actuator switch, control switch assembly, Brake On/Off (BOO) switch, disengage switch, air bag sliding contact (clockspring), Transmission Range (TR) switch, and Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS). Speed control system is operational only at speeds greater than 30 MPH.

Speed control system is activated when ON switch is pressed and COAST/SET button is pressed. Vehicle will maintain set speed until new speed is set, brake pedal is depressed, CANCEL button is pressed, gear selector is placed in Neutral (M/T only), or OFF switch is pressed. If system has been deactivated by process other than pressing OFF switch, set speed can be regained by pressing and releasing RES/ACCEL button.

If a malfunction is detected in speed control system, system will automatically cancel. CRUISE indicator on instrument cluster will flash, warning driver of problem. Speed control disengage switch provides an additional safety feature. When brake pedal is depressed, a signal is sent from disengage switch to amplifier to deactivate operation.