Volvo VNL erratic Cruise Control shutoff MID 144 PID 86

Question

My cruise control keeps kicking off while I am driving on flat ground and I cannot get it to re-engage for several minutes. The dash is throwing a MID 144 PID 86 code and sometimes moving the steering wheel seems to trigger the fault. It makes it impossible to use the set speed function on long hauls.

Rachel Nguyen · Accepted Answer

The issue was a failing clock spring (Part #20993318) in the steering column. The internal ribbon cable had a hairline fracture that would break the connection whenever I turned the wheel slightly to the right, causing the VECU to lose the Cruise Set signal. I replaced the contact reel assembly and the cruise has been rock solid for 3,000 miles. Total cost was about $240 for the part and two hours of labor making sure the steering angle sensor was recalibrated.

obd2_owl · Answer

Since you mentioned the steering wheel movement, you should look at the clock spring in the steering column. If the data link for the steering wheel buttons is frayed, it will drop the 'Set' signal and throw that MID 144 code.

fleet_chief_42 · Answer

Check your clutch pedal return spring. If the pedal is sagging even half an inch, it can trip the safety cutout for the cruise control without fully engaging the clutch.

Jake Morrison · Answer

Inspect the wiring harness where it passes through the firewall. There is a known rub point there that can cause 1939 data link errors to the Vehicle ECU, which controls the cruise logic.

Volvo VNL erratic Cruise Control shutoff MID 144 PID 86

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