Cruise control promotes a safer and more relaxing driving experience than before. Now, you want this feature for your Chevy Colorado. But how can you install cruise control for this pickup truck? We researched this concern for your convenience to give you the following answer.
The first step is to check your Chevy Colorado's owner's manual for any extra steps you may need to complete before starting the installation. Then, prepare for the installation job by putting safety measures into place. Once done, follow these steps:
- Expose the wiring
- Remove the dashboard faceplate
- Remove the lever assembly
- Install the cruise control module
- Return the parts
- Install the correct fuse
- Test the cruise control
You might think that it’s a relatively straightforward procedure. But failure to pay attention to the details of this job may result in failure and expensive repair costs. So continue reading as we talk about this cruise control installation job for a Chevy Colorado in greater detail.
How Do You Add Cruise Control To Chevy Colorado?
First, check your owner’s manual to see if you need to go through unique steps to help you with the installation process. Take note that the Chevy Colorado evolved throughout the years since its first release in 2004.
Next, contact the truck’s manufacturer or your vehicle’s dealer if installing an aftermarket cruise control module is going to affect your warranty. That means that you should be adamant about continuing this procedure for it might put the warranty at risk of being voided.
Then, don’t forget to follow proper safety protocols before, during, and after completing the installation job. Some of the preventive measures to follow are:
- Wear protective gear, such as a good pair of goggles and gloves, to avoid direct skin contact with the truck’s parts.
- Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition slot. Otherwise, ensure that the engine is off, especially if your Chevrolet Colorado has a push-button ignition.
- Only use tools that are in good working condition. Replace any tool that may increase hazards while working on the vehicle.
- Remove flammable objects from the work site.
- Always work in a well-lit location. Bring a flashlight with you if you’re working in a dark space.
After completing the necessary preparations, follow these steps to add cruise control to your Chevy Colorado:
What You’ll Need
- Flathead or Torx screwdriver
- Panel remover
- Cruise control installation kit
- 10-amp automotive fuse
Step-by-Step Guide
Step #1: Expose The Wiring
Unscrew the panel behind and underneath the steering wheel. You may also need to use a panel remover for this step. Then, place the panel in a safe spot temporarily. If done correctly, you should be able to see different assemblies and wires.
At this point, it’s ideal to study the wires that will connect to your cruise control lever. Take a picture if needed. That way, you won’t have to search for the correct wires as you move forward with this task.
Step #2: Remove The Dashboard Faceplate
Use the panel remover and pull out the dashboard's faceplate. It might also be possible to remove that part with your bare hands. Next, go underneath the steering wheel and undo the bolts for the hard plastic panel covering the rest of the wires.
Step #3: Remove The Lever Assembly
Use a Torx or flathead screwdriver and remove the Torx bolts securing the lever assembly behind the steering wheel. Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the lever assembly afterward. Then, remove the old lever assembly.
Step #4: Install The Cruise Control Module
With the old lever assembly out of the way, install the new cruise control module in the same spot. Connect the correct wires to the new assembly and secure them with the Torx bolts.
If done correctly, you can proceed by doing some minor tests to check if your Chevy Colorado accepted the new fitting. So test it out by turning on your vehicle’s engine. Then, fiddle with some of the lever’s settings, such as the turn signal lights, and check if they’re working as intended. Don’t forget to turn off your vehicle’s engine again once you finish with the minor tests.
Step #5: Return The Parts
Return the removed parts to their original locations. These components include the panels for the dashboard, along with the cover behind the steering wheel.
Step #6: Install The Correct Fuse
Open the Colorado’s hood and locate its fuse box. Open the container and install a 10-amp fuse for the cruise control module.
Warning: Don't remove other fuses in the fuse box, especially when they're still working. Doing so may create issues with your vehicle, which may lead to costly repairs.
Step #7: Test The Cruise Control
Close the hood and take your Chevy Colorado for a test drive. Next, reach a reasonably stable speed while driving down a road with light traffic. Then, activate the new cruise control module to check its performance.
If it doesn’t work as expected, stop the cruise control and resume regular driving. Park the pickup truck in a safe spot afterward so you can troubleshoot the error.
Check out this cruise control kit for 2015-2016 Chevy Colorado models.
You can also watch this video if you need a visual guide for the steps mentioned above:
How Long Does It Take To Install Cruise Control?
It should only take about 1 to 2 hours to complete a cruise control installation job. Take note that this task may take longer than expected if you run into some issues. Avoid driving your vehicle if the installation job doesn’t finish the way you envisioned it.
Does The Chevy Colorado Have Adaptive Cruise Control?
Most Chevy Colorado models don’t have adaptive cruise control. Instead, these pickup trucks often have the regular cruise control feature if it has one. However, some Colorado units, such as the premium trims of the 2022 model, have adaptive cruise control. The 2019 Chevy Colorado also has adaptive cruise control, but it might only be an optional feature and may not come with the basic package.
What Is The Difference Between Cruise Control And Adaptive Cruise Control?
Standard or conventional cruise control typically allows you to maintain the set cruising speed. In comparison, adaptive cruise control adjusts the speed automatically.
The way adaptive cruise control works are it uses different sensors to match the speed of nearby vehicles. For example, your vehicle’s speed slows down if the sensors detect another car in front. Then, the speed returns to the original setting if the car in front changes lanes.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Adaptive Cruise Control?
The costs for installing aftermarket adaptive cruise control generally range from $2,000 to $2,500. But a standard cruise control installation job may only cost about $500. It’s also possible to reduce the overhead by doing the installation using DIY techniques instead of relying on professional services.
Final Words
Remember, ensure that your installing a compatible cruise control kit to your Chevy Colorado. Also, don’t forget to ask your truck dealer or manufacturer if you’re going to experience repercussions by installing this aftermarket module. Still, you may enjoy different benefits if you installed the cruise control assembly correctly.
You might also be looking for answers to other truck-related problems. If so, read these other great posts:
GMC Sierra Adaptive Cruise Control Temporarily Unavailable – What To Do?
