Cruise Control and OBD2: Understanding Modern Electronic Systems

Rostra Accessories stands at the forefront of designing and developing advanced add-on cruise control systems, especially for vehicles utilizing Electronic Throttle Control, often called “drive-by-wire”. Our leadership in aftermarket cruise control is built upon decades of dedicated research and development in vehicle dynamics, rigorous testing, and sophisticated software architecture, primarily focused on enhancing the driving experience in passenger vehicles.

For vehicles equipped with Electronic Throttle Control Systems, our add-on cruise control systems manage vehicle speed through Rostra’s specialized E-Cruise Module. These systems are seamlessly integrated using matched-fit accelerator pedal t-harnesses for a broad spectrum of vehicle models, Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) port interface harnesses, and meticulously designed control switches that blend seamlessly into the vehicle’s steering column and dashboard.

At the heart of our system is the E-Cruise Module, the system’s “brain.” Working in concert with the accelerator pedal interface harness, it intelligently interprets the communication signals between the pedal position sensor and the vehicle’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU). Crucially, through the OBD port connector, the E-Cruise Module gains continuous access to vital vehicle speed and load data. This real-time information enables the system to precisely instruct the ECU to adjust the electronic throttle actuator, maintaining a consistent set speed. When the cruise control is deactivated – either by the Off/Cancel button on the control switch, depressing the brake pedal, or the clutch pedal in manual transmissions – the E-Cruise Module relinquishes control, returning full command to the accelerator pedal and the driver for manual speed adjustments.

Decoding the Electronic Cruise Control System Layout

The following diagram illustrates a typical electronic cruise control system setup, highlighting the E-Cruise Module, the integration point at the accelerator pedal harness, the OBD II port connection, the control switch, and a universal clutch disengagement switch, essential for certain manual transmission vehicles.

The Intricacies of Product Development

Rostra’s approach to developing electronic cruise control systems is rooted in platform-specific applications, ensuring optimal performance and safety. We exclusively offer vehicle-specific installation kits. This dedication to vehicle-specific design stems from the critical need for cruise control software to communicate precise commands to a vehicle’s onboard computer, unique to each platform, via the CAN bus system. The data transmitted across this network of computers and micro-controllers requires very specific identifying information. This level of precision is simply unattainable with generic or “universal” electronic cruise control systems. Developing each Rostra cruise control system is an intensive process, encompassing these key stages:

CAN Bus Data Acquisition: We initiate development by meticulously recording data directly from the vehicle’s CAN bus. Using specialized software, we pinpoint the exact signals needed to communicate with the ECU to effectively control vehicle speed.

E-Cruise Module Selection: Based on the specific signals required to activate cruise control for a particular vehicle, we carefully select the E-Cruise Module that best fits the application’s needs.
Software Integration and Security: Once the vehicle-specific software package is meticulously crafted, it is programmed into the E-Cruise Module within a Faraday cage. This controlled environment is crucial to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and ensure software integrity during the writing process.

Rigorous Performance Testing: After the software is loaded and verified through a triple-check process, we conduct extensive on-road testing. We rigorously evaluate the system’s ability to maintain cruising speed within a range of 31 to 80 MPH, ensuring minimal speed fluctuation and consistent performance under various driving conditions.
Final Validation and Sign-off: Only after the cruise control system demonstrates operational excellence within our strict performance parameters does it receive final sign-off from our engineering staff. Following this, the custom-designed control switch is permanently installed, marking the system ready for production.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Rostra Cruise Control and OBD2 Integration

Q: What is the typical development timeline for a cruise control system tailored to a specific vehicle application?

A: The duration for cruise control system development is largely determined by the availability of test vehicles within our local market. Generally, from initial testing to final delivery, a new system requires approximately 4 weeks. This timeframe includes initial testing, comprehensive installation instruction development, rigorous software verification, and final validation across different trim levels of the same vehicle model to ensure broad compatibility and reliable performance.

Q: What are the key advantages of choosing an official Rostra cruise control system over other brands?

A: Rostra takes immense pride in the stringent quality control embedded within our manufacturing processes. Our North Carolina headquarters is not just a manufacturing plant; it’s an ISO 9001 certified and TS 16949 compliant facility. We undergo annual quality control audits and proactively implement improvements based on the findings. We are committed to continuous innovation in our manufacturing procedures, ensuring timely delivery of defect-free products. This unwavering commitment to quality allows us to confidently offer a 3-year/36,000-mile guarantee, underscoring the reliability and durability of Rostra cruise control systems.

Q: Are Rostra cruise control systems designed with the DIY customer in mind, or is professional installation recommended?

A: Given the sensitive nature of modern vehicle low-voltage electronics, we consistently recommend professional installation by a trained or experienced technician for our cruise control systems. While many of our installation kits feature plug-and-play harnesses to simplify connections, they still require careful integration with the vehicle’s electrical system, including locating a reliable, low resistance chassis ground and a consistent 12-volt ignition source for proper operation. Soldering connections is often necessary to ensure secure and lasting fitment, and connections that are not properly soldered can pose a significant risk of damage to the vehicle’s onboard computer system. Professional installation ensures safety and system longevity.

Q: Why is attempting to install a “universal” electronic cruise control system generally not advisable?

A: The primary concern with “universal” electronic cruise control systems is their questionable origin and lack of rigorous validation. These systems often originate from overseas suppliers with minimal quality control standards and are rarely, if ever, validated for compatibility or proper operation within the domestic market’s diverse range of vehicles. Crucially, due to the variations in emission control systems and regulatory requirements across different countries, these “universal” systems typically lack the essential software to properly interface and communicate with your vehicle’s sophisticated computer network. Commands from these systems can overwhelm the onboard computer with malformed data, leading to “packet collisions.” This confusion within the vehicle’s network can degrade fuel efficiency—contrary to the intended fuel-saving function of cruise control—and, more alarmingly, can induce delays or malfunctions in critical vehicle emergency systems.

Q: When selecting a cruise control system and manufacturer, what key questions should a customer ask?

A: The most crucial advice is to be thoroughly inquisitive. Key questions to consider include: Does the company have a long-standing history of manufacturing cruise control systems for vehicles equipped with Electronic Throttle Control? Does the manufacturer design every component of their installation kits in-house, including accelerator pedal harnesses, control modules, control switches, and software? Are their products manufactured and rigorously tested on vehicles within the United States before being offered for sale, or are they mass-produced overseas with minimal oversight? Does the company employ a dedicated team of hardware and software engineers for system development? Is technical support provided directly by the engineers who designed the cruise control system you are considering? Can their technical team provide detailed explanations of how the cruise control system interacts with your specific vehicle’s CAN bus system and OBD2 port? Does the manufacturer operate a quality-audited manufacturing facility, or are products assembled in less controlled environments? These questions will help ensure you choose a reputable and reliable cruise control system.

Q: What support is available if I encounter issues during the installation of a Rostra cruise control system?

A: Rostra is committed to providing comprehensive technical support to all our customers. Our dedicated Technical Services department is available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. EST, to assist with any questions or issues. Please note that for security and efficient service, we require callers to register for a Technician Identification Number (TIN) before being connected to a support representative. Click here to register for your TIN now. Additionally, we offer an expanding library of detailed installation videos on our YouTube channel, which provide step-by-step visual guidance through the various stages of cruise control system installation.

Q: Where can I find a comprehensive catalog of Rostra’s manufactured cruise control systems?

A: The Vehicle Search tool at the top of our webpage allows you to quickly identify compatible products for your specific vehicle by entering its year, make, and model. For broader browsing, you can explore our dedicated pages for Global universal cruise control systems, drive-by-wire cruise control systems, custom pedal interface cruise control systems, and custom pedal bypass cruise control systems. For the most up-to-date listing of our latest cruise control systems, our Quick Reference Guide, available as a PDF download, is an excellent resource.

Rostra Cruise Control System: Key Features

Enhanced Operational Performance:
- Precise Set Speed Maintenance
- Coast/Reduce Speed Functionality
- Resume/Accelerate Capabilities
- Tap-Up Adjustment: 1 MPH increments per tap
- Tap-Down Adjustment: 1 MPH decrements per tap
- Controlled and Smooth Resume Rate
- Tighter, More Accurate Speed Control
Simplified Installation:
- Fully Electronic Operation
- Compact, Discrete Control Module
- Custom-Designed Control Switch for Seamless Integration
- Removable Wiring Harness with Secure Locking Device
- Integrated Clutch Switch Wiring for Manual Transmissions
- Automatic Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) Acquisition via OBD2
- Built-in Self-Diagnostic Capabilities for Easy Troubleshooting

Standard Installation Kit Contents (Part Number 250-9507 Shown)

Cruise Control Installation Video Guide (Part Number 250-9507)

For your safety and optimal system performance, remember that universal electronic cruise control systems cannot match the safety, reliability, and seamless integration offered by a custom-engineered cruise control system like those from Rostra.

Rostra is a premier manufacturer specializing in automotive comfort, safety, and convenience accessories. Our extensive product range includes electronic cruise control systems, vehicle speed limiters, backup camera relocation kits, advanced LED lighting solutions, exterior vehicle camera systems, automotive lumbar support and seat heating systems, and driver alert technologies, among others.