Question:

96 Winnebago Rialta RV Anyone know if cruise control going out is common? Where would mechanic start? Thanks
The cruise on my 96 would shut off by itself while I was cruising down the freeway. Now I can rarely get it to go on at all, and if I do, it shuts off almost immediately. I just put over $1000 into servicing, and it would cost me $82 an hour for up to three hours just to find the problem. Help! Are there any suggestions where to start? Heartfelt thanks if you can save me a few bucks!

Answers:

A-Best: Have you checked that you r brake lights are functioning normally? I know this sounds silly, but there is a possible cause here and I've seen it before. The cruise control shuts off when you hit the brakes, this is a signal from the same switch that turns on the brake lights. You can find this switch if you look up under the brake pedal, it's a black plastic cylinder about 4 inches long. These do tend to fail and it may be stuck on "shut off" signal. Try wiggling it and reattaching the wiring connector if it's loose or dirty. If that doesn't work, check all the online volkswagen owners groups and post messages looking for someone in your area with a "VAG-COM." This allows MUCH GREATER detailed diagnostic information that the standard shop's hookup, and only VW dealers or enthusiasts have them. You're better paying $20 or $50 to someone with a VAG-COM than $80 to a shop woth a standard scanner.  

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