Cruise Control Mystery Malfunction ON/OFF "sometimes"

Good Morning Forum. Long time reader/lurker. First time poster.

I have a pesky issue with my '96 SR5 6.0L. I did some modifications to the electrical system to upgrade the interior with 5V USB plugs. After a bit of splicing to the accessory wires, I have an intermittent problem with my cruise control. When I start driving in the morning, the cruise control will not turn on with the steering wheel control (pushbutton). After several hours of driving (long distance) the cruise control will mysteriously 'work again'.

I have taken it to a mechanic to check, but when he pushes the on/off, it works. Because this is a "sometimes" malfunction that "always" happens first drive of the day.

I have had trouble with ground (0V) values on some electronics upgrades I have done (tow trailer adapter), but any troubleshooting suggestions are welcome.

 

I have a 1997 4Runner SR5 and I had a problem with the cruise control. I lived with it for a while and then the horn stopped working and I had an SRS (airbag) malfunction. After some research, etc. I determined that the steering wheel clock spring was malfunctioning. Apparently, after a while (over 225,000 miles on it) the wires in the clock spring or spiral cable break and things just wear out. I found a clock spring on Ebay and swapped it out. Everthing works now. You might look into that.

 

welcome

 

My 99 4Runner has a similar trouble. Pushing the button turns the system on/off OK, but trying to set the speed, or return to the set speed don't. I found that if I stick my toe under the clutch pedal, and pull it toward me once I've let out the clutch, it works fine.
Obviously, the return spring is weak, or the switch needs adjustment, I just have to take the time to get down there and do it. I'll try adjusting the switch first. Easier of th two choices

Have fun, All!
Pat☺

 

as the gen 3's continue to age..more glitches start showing up

 

Thank you to FJ40Steve, Jet 4, PhantomTweak and mousemeat. A few days after FJ40Steve posted, my Airbag warning light came on! Ah-ha! It only comes on every 3 or 4th start, but I suspect that the clocking spring is worn out. I just replaced a bunch of electrical wires from the distributor f that was original (I've always owned this vehicle) and the radiator and water pump. I am kicking myself that I could have had the mechanic replace this too while I had it in the shop.

FYI I did bring this to a Toyota dealership and the tech determined it required a $600++ diagnostic fee plus parts + labor + disposal. I politely said "No" but I owe you a big thank you for helping me not get taken for a ride.

I have been poking around and doing upgrades now that I have kids. They needed USB plugs in the back so I wired it all myself (replacing the cigarette disposal tray). I worried I may have created a voltage problem by splicing into the accessory electrical wiring, but luckily that just seems to be a coincidence.

I'll get that clocking spring replaced.

 

Ordered clock spring. Hazard lights, horn and cruise problem at same time. Although my horn is stuck in the on position so I have to pull the fuse to stop it.