If you're a new driver, you've probably seen that little "CRUISE" button on your dashboard or steering wheel.

It might seem like a cool feature, but how exactly do you use cruise control without feeling like you're losing control of the car? Don't worry, you're not alone in asking this question.

Understanding how to use cruise control correctly can make long drives more comfortable and even improve fuel efficiency. Let's explore this feature.

Understand What Cruise Control Does

Before you even touch that button, it's important to know exactly what cruise control is and how it works. In short, cruise control is a system that automatically controls the throttle of your car to maintain a constant speed without you needing to keep your foot on the accelerator. This is especially helpful on highways or long, straight roads.

Why it matters:

• Cruise control reduces fatigue during long drives, as it lets you rest your foot from constant pedal pressure.

• It can help improve fuel efficiency by maintaining a consistent speed without sudden acceleration.

It's important to remember: while cruise control is great for maintaining speed, it doesn't handle braking or steering. So, your attention is still needed to control the car safely.

When to Use Cruise Control

Not every driving situation is ideal for cruise control. It works best on long, straight roads where you don't need to frequently adjust your speed, like highways or country roads. However, there are certain times when it's not recommended to use it.

Good times to use cruise control:

• On highways: If you're driving on a flat, long stretch of highway, cruise control can maintain a steady pace for you.

• When traffic is light: If the road is clear, cruise control will help you stay consistent without worrying about speeding up or slowing down.

When NOT to use cruise control:

• In heavy traffic: Cruise control isn't helpful when you're constantly starting and stopping.

• On hilly terrain: The system works best on flat roads. On hills, your car may struggle to maintain speed, or it might accelerate too quickly downhill.

• In bad weather: If it's raining, snowy, or icy, it's best to keep full control of your car. Cruise control can cause you to lose traction in slippery conditions.

Knowing when to use it is key to ensuring that cruise control enhances your driving experience, not the other way around.

How to Activate Cruise Control

Now that you know when to use cruise control, let's talk about how to set it. Activating cruise control is simple, but you need to follow the right steps.

Steps to set cruise control:

• Achieve a steady speed: First, accelerate to the speed you want to maintain. Most cars allow you to set cruise control at speeds over 30 mph.

• Press the cruise control button: Once you're at your desired speed, press the cruise control button, usually located on the steering wheel or dashboard. The button often has a "CRUISE" label on it.

• Set the speed: After activating the system, press the "SET" button to lock in your current speed.

• Adjust speed if needed: If you want to speed up or slow down, use the "+" and "–" buttons on your steering wheel to make small adjustments.

Remember, cruise control doesn't work unless your car is already moving at the desired speed, so don't try to set it while at a stoplight or at too low a speed.

How to Deactivate Cruise Control

If you need to change your speed or stop using cruise control, deactivating it is just as simple as setting it.

How to turn it off:

• Press the brake pedal: This is the most common way to deactivate cruise control. When you tap the brake, the system disengages, allowing you to resume manual control.

• Press the “Cancel” button: Some cars have a "CANCEL" button that instantly turns off cruise control.

• Turn off the car's engine: If you're stopped and don't want cruise control to be active again, simply turning off the engine will disengage the system.

Once you've disengaged cruise control, your car will return to manual mode, and you'll need to control your speed again.

Tips for Safe Cruise Control Use

While cruise control is a convenient feature, it's important to use it safely. These extra tips will help you use it in the safest way possible.

Best practices:

• Keep your hands on the wheel: Even though you're not actively controlling the accelerator, it's still important to have both hands on the wheel and stay alert.

• Pay attention to traffic: Just because cruise control is engaged doesn't mean you can zone out. Always be aware of your surroundings in case the traffic pattern changes or the weather turns.

• Stay prepared to override it: If something unexpected happens (like another driver cutting you off), you can quickly override cruise control by tapping the brakes or pressing the accelerator.

• Don't set cruise control in an emergency: If you're driving in a situation that requires quick reaction (like avoiding an obstacle), it's better to drive manually.

Using cruise control responsibly ensures that it works for you and not against you, giving you a more comfortable driving experience.

Cruise Control vs. Adaptive Cruise Control

If you've been driving for a while, you may have noticed newer cars offering a more advanced version of cruise control: adaptive cruise control. But what's the difference, and should new drivers care about it?

What's the difference?

• Standard cruise control: This keeps your car at a constant speed. It doesn't adjust for other vehicles, so you must handle speed changes manually.

• Adaptive cruise control: This advanced system adjusts your speed based on the car ahead. It can slow down and speed up to maintain a safe distance automatically.

If your car has adaptive cruise control, it's even easier to stay relaxed during long drives, but it's still important to stay alert and be prepared to take control if necessary.

Cruise Control Made Simple

Using cruise control can transform long drives from tiring to enjoyable, and with the right approach, you can make it a valuable tool in your driving routine.

Remember to only use it when conditions are ideal, and always stay alert to road changes. With a bit of practice, cruise control will soon feel like a natural part of your driving experience, making your trips smoother and more relaxed.