Short answer
The cruise control indicator means cruise control is switched on and ready, or actively holding a set speed. It is not a warning. Many cars show one symbol when the system is armed and a different color when a speed is set. Avoid using it on wet, icy, winding or crowded roads.
- Also shown as:
- Cruise light · Adaptive cruise indicator
- What it looks like:
- A speedometer dial with an arrow pointing to it; green when a speed is set on many cars.
Is it safe to keep driving?
Yes. Do not use cruise control on wet, icy or congested roads.
What causes the cruise control indicator?
Most common first. Symbols and meanings vary by manufacturer; your owner's manual has the definitive meaning for your model.
- Cruise control switched on. The cruise button was pressed. Most cars arm the system first and only hold speed once you press set.
- Adaptive cruise status. Adaptive systems use extra symbols for following distance and a detected car ahead; a change of color can mean the radar lost track.
What should you do right now?
- Nothing — this is an indicator.
- Tap the brake or press cancel to disengage it before slippery or busy stretches.
What does the fix usually involve?
No repair needed. If cruise will not engage or keeps cutting out, a brake-light switch or sensor fault is a common cause and the shop reads the codes.
How much does it cost to fix?
Often nothing — see the causes above. The cost depends on what is actually wrong.
A typical range, not a quote. Actual cost depends on the car, the shop and the fault.
Common questions
Why won't my cruise control turn on?
Common causes are a failed brake light switch, a blocked radar sensor on adaptive systems, or another fault the car is reporting. Check whether your brake lights work and whether any other warning is on.
Is it safe to use cruise control in the rain?
It is best avoided on wet roads. If the tires start to hydroplane, cruise control may try to hold speed when you would want to slow down gently.
Check your car
Free VIN check: open NHTSA recalls, owner complaints and the safety rating for your exact car.