Replacing Cruise Control Buttons | 98'-2002 Ford Ranger (Mazda B series) | *In-depth Install*

In this video, I will show you how to replace the cruise control steering wheel buttons on a 2001 Ford Ranger/Mazda B 3000. This will work on a Ford Explorer, Sport Trac, F-150 Lightning, and Mazda B Series, but will only work on 1998-2002 Rangers due to the steering wheel design.
Here is the link for the buttons:
www.amazon.com...
If you found this video helpful please consider subscribing!
All video was taken by the Mile High Mechanic
All demonstration was done by the Mie High Mechanic

[@RobWooten]

This is a much easier option versus taking the steering wheel off that many others videos suggest doing. Knocked mine earlier today.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Sweet! Glad I made it easier!

[@kent7927]

Thank you so much great video Followed your step by step video "no issue with slipping wire's behind the plastic" worked fine. I looked at old parts once I was done and not worried about wrecking old parts I took a small screwdriver and with a easy wiggly and half a jiggly "the wire's unplug" from switch's. If you feel good about your old wire's you can change only switch's or unplug to fish wire's through to left side. It's people like you that make KZbin rock THANKS!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I appreciate your positive feedback, and I'm glad you found my video helpful.

[@tywonpool]

Remember, the positive battery cable is only one that can be hooked to the battery by itself. So disconnect negative cable to do this not positive only.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

It doesn't matter what terminal is pulled. As long as there is no current flowing through the car it is safe.

[@tywonpool]

Might not matter to you but if you're going to teach it correctly, without chance of shorting the electrical system, then never disconnect the positive battery cable first. That's basic stuff, day one in my class

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@tywonpool All I am saying is that disconnecting either terminal achieves the desired result (in terms of electricity, they both serve the same purpose). In the video, I taught everyone to isolate the lead that was disconnected, so if you are worried about my teaching, I think I covered all of my bases to ensure the desired result without any issues.

[@carolynjohansen8270]

Thank you for this tutorial. I just finished replacing those switches. There were no surprises and everything works perfectly.. The buttons on my switches were rotted. 23 years of sunshine did a number on them.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Glad I could help!!

[@patrickg3618]

Excellent tutorial for this job. With description of tools required , clear step by step instructions and good visual descriptions. I've got the replacement part and look forward to doing the job tomorrow.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Awesome! Glad I could assist!!

[@stephaniegardner9218]

Thank you for the awesome video. I did this tonight all by myself. I only needed to ask hubby for a couple of tools. Video was perfect and easy to follow!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Glad I could be of help!

[@Crazyblockkidprod]

THANK YOU FOR POSTING THIS! Literally knocked it out in the time it took me to watch this video, I just went along as I watched and paused when needed!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Absolutely! Glad you found it helpful.

[@alanwimberly1424]

That's all great, worked fine. the biggest problem is putting the horn/airbag back in. Everything must be right. You can't just put it in and bolt down. You have to allow for the movement needed for the horn. Tighten the side screws in with the horn/airbag in the upmost position. Just my 2 cents. If you don't the horn will blast until you get it right.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I have it aligned properly, but thanks for your information. Other than that one instance, I hope you found the video informative and helpful.

[@Csonic23]

Thanks! Glad I’m looking at the comments before attempting.

[@Josef_R]

I just shoved mine in and bolted it down. I didn't know I was supposed to have a problem.

[@brycealvarez2910]

Can you explain more what do you mean by upmost because I did run into this problem

[@epattyj]

The best video have viewed thus far on the topic! Will be installing tomorrow. THANKS!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Thanks so much! I'm glad I could help!

[@jamesrichardson559]

Thank You! I just did the same replacement using your video as a guide. It worked perfect.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Glad I could help!!

[@mikew6193]

Good video. On my 2002 Ranger, I did find the airbag was secured by 2 different types of security bolts. Took a while to find/order the right sizes. Needed a secure torx bit and a spanner bit.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

That's odd that the bolts are different, glad you were able to figure it out though.

[@loco_1403]

Good job. Most videos I've watched they skip the wire routing. Thanks

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Thanks, I'm glad you found my video more informative!

[@aaronpredum9907]

Great video, worked perfectly. Thank you!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Great to hear!

[@sluggerbaloney9737]

Did this job today and discovered something the video doesn't say. The buttons connect to the wires with plugs. So if you only need to replace the buttons and the factory wiring is in good shape, you can skip the rewire part altogether. Follow the video until you get to the part where you unscrew the 4 screws holding the old buttons in. Then disconnect the plug connecting the old buttons to the wiring (you will probably have to use a small flathead to pry it out), then plug the wires into the new buttons, screw them in, and you are done and ready for reassembly. This turned a 20-30 minute job into a 5 minute job.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I do not remember them having plugs on the buttons themselves. I thought that the ribbon connector on the OEM ones went straight into the buttons. The replacement one might have had connectors that you can remove but I don't believe you can do that with the OEM ones. If you did indeed have the OEM ones and did this thanks for pointing that out!

[@sluggerbaloney9737]

@@TheMileHighMechanic Yes I replaced OEM ones (that were all destroyed) with aftermarket ones. The ribbon wire connects perpendicularly to the connector (and on the right side it passes through) and the plug opening is sunk into the body of the button housing, so if you don't look closely it looks like the ribbon cable connects directly to the button, but at least on my 2002 there is indeed a plug connection. And thanks for the great video, it gave me the confidence to even attempt this repair. Repair shop wanted over $250 to replace the buttons, I bought a replacement set off Amazon for $22 and fixed it myself in 5 minutes!

[@terrykinney5258]

Thanks for this video! Your instructions were great and I now have cruise control again! SUPER (with your help)!!!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Glad I could help!

[@shanestrains2849]

Will a steering wheel from a 2003 fit on a 2000? Thank you for the excellent tutorial BTW.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I believe so, the interiors are virtually the same

[@joshuajimenez5789]

I did the exact steps but my horn keeps going off when I connect the power any idea on how to fix it?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@joshuajimenez5789 Make sure you pull the horn pad/airbag twords you before you tighten down the bolts all the way. This will create more separation between the horn contacts.

[@joshuajimenez5789]

I tried that but it just kept going

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@joshuajimenez5789 Are you sure your connections are hooked up properly and not coming in contact with any other ground

[@MultiMrow]

So I just did this yesterday. Ran into a problem that someone else on here put in, the bottom buttons now sound the horn. Watching your video, the right side set of buttons has a gap between the pins on yours. Mine does not. All my pins are together. I wonder if this is the cause of the issue, I'll investigate more when I get home this afternoon. Cheers!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I wonder if the parts are slightly different 🤔

[@MultiMrow]

@TheMileHighMechanic Well it seems like the pins may be the trouble. I pulled it all apart and made sure those were right. I found an obscure post somewhere that said the left side pins are made upside down so I flipped that connector and now it's quiet. However I've run into the airbag light coming on. The steering wheel now has a binding noise and sounds the horn when rotating so I believe the clock spring went bad while doing this. I've ordered a new one and will continue more when it gets here.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@MultiMrow interesting

[@Rustytx]

Great tutorial! I'm a new subscriber thanks to this one. The buttons have rotted in the Texas heat after 20+ years. The part you recommend in the link is not available with no eta. Do you have another recommendation for a good replacement part?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I will fix the link in the description, but these should be the same: www.amazon.com/F87Z9C888BB-Replacement-1998-2003-Mountaineer-F87A9D809BA/dp/B09THDJ7H8/ref=dp_prsubs_sccl_3/132-0940735-8545008?pd_rd_w=ZaQNW&content-id=amzn1.sym.2c74594d-9264-4cdf-bf3d-e4e41e237275&pf_rd_p=2c74594d-9264-4cdf-bf3d-e4e41e237275&pf_rd_r=K0RKQG5KQWZZF70Y6AKM&pd_rd_wg=wrff8&pd_rd_r=84990a49-74ef-4c7d-9d2c-0f7cc250cc68&pd_rd_i=B09THDJ7H8&psc=1

[@Hunter98367]

The cruise control wires in my steering wheel came unplugged from the cruise control switches. I ended up buying new switches and plugged the wires into the control switches and cruise control still dont work. Any suggestions? Thanks. The fuse is good. But is there a relay under the hood for cruise control?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

It could be possible that your cruise control servo has gone out (the little motor that controls the throttle for cruise control)

[@Hunter98367]

@@TheMileHighMechanic everything was working great till I was taking one of them security lock bars off the steering wheel. The bar got jammed and took the cover of the cruise control switch off. And the wires unplugged from inside the steering wheel. I ended up buying new switches and plugged it all in and it still don't work. I can hear the motor of the cruise control turn on and back off after I push the buttons on the switches. Hopefully that makes sense.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@Hunter98367 so you can hear the servo engaging but it doesn't keep the speed?

[@Hunter98367]

@@TheMileHighMechanic I tried pushing the cruise control buttons and I hear a motor or something come on and then it goes away after a few seconds. If I remember right. I'm pretty sure I had the key onto the on position and the cruise control light blinked like 2 times. As I was pushing the cruise control buttons

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@Hunter98367 The system only engages above 30 mph, so if it's doing the same thing above that speed, id say we are looking at a problem with the circuit... possibly the connection to the wheel is damaged, or a relay has failed

[@Corkboard753]

Exactly what I needed! Thanks!

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@Corkboard753 Glad I can help!

[@nickhays3736]

will definitely try this but im also installing the turn signal/wiper lever as well

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I'm glad that I could help you out!

[@Csonic23]

I had to do that a year ago. Then my little bro borrowed my truck and cracked the cruise buttons.

[@crashkratics]

Good job, nice and easy to follow instructions. Too bad the mounts on both sides for the buttons are plastic. My on, off switch broke off the steering wheel. Found both switches for $15.00 new, online. Going to change them out. Thanks for the tutorial.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Absolutely, glad I could help!

[@nikogauna3733]

Hell yeah man. I'm doing this tomorrow. Well done video. 👊🏾

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Awesome, hope everything goes well!

[@Josef_R]

I just did this thanks to you. But I left the old cable in place, I couldn't see it coming out. Or the new one going in, rather.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Interesting solution!

[@Elnegro..]

Thanks man, would be at it all day if not for you.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

That's why I'm here!

[@worromot2682]

Hey I’m getting a ford, same model, and it’s actually missing those buttons. Is it the same process and if so where do I get the parts for it? (It has the circuit part on the steering wheel the cover for the buttons are just gone)

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

If the buttons were removed then yes, it will be the same process

[@worromot2682]

@@TheMileHighMechanic Thank you so much, do you know where I can buy a pair of new buttons?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@worromot2682 I think I linked it in the description

[@justonpreble3119]

Can this kit be added to a Ranger without factory cruise? or would additional work need to be done?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Short answer is no...there is a servo motor that controls the throttle position to maintain the correct speed, and if your car wasn't optioned with it you won't have it.

[@justonpreble4083]

@@TheMileHighMechanic Do you know of any videos on KZbin that show how to install the servo motor? Or can you do a video on that? I have a 1998 Single Cab Style Side I’m trying to add cruise control to… Love your channel by the way…

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@justonpreble4083 I found this forum thread that has what you are looking for ( www.ranger-forums.com/interior-exterior-electrical-123/how-98-03-cruise-control-install-76919/ )

[@justonpreble4083]

@@TheMileHighMechanic Your the man! Thanks 🙏

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@justonpreble4083 I wish you luck!

[@videogarage9221]

Great job. Very clear explanation. Going to do it on my Explorer.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Awesome! Glad I could help!!

[@gotinycampervan9683]

Thank you Chris Fix.

[@livens100]

You've had these in for 2 years, did they hold up? I need to replace mine and Amazon sells them for $20, Rockauto has brands from $79 and up. Wondering if going cheap on these is OK.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

They are still working flawlessly...I've had no issues

[@pgo301]

Nice job and Thank You for posting. Do you know if the cruise control switch is the same for both Ranger and 02 Mazda B3000?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I believe that they are the same

[@beckoninghooman8831]

The lights went out and the button covers all desintegrated on mine

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Yeah they do tend to wear out over time.

[@Csonic23]

My dad replaced the buttons in 2013, the my little brother drove my truck and punched in the new buttons. I blame the buttons. Lack of feedback when pressed! So you press harrrrderrr.

[@FirstTimeXP]

Okay I’m very confused. The LED lights are not turning on however the buttons are working. Any thoughts?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

That is very odd, are you sure that all of the wires in the connector are pushed all the way in? If so it is possible that you got a dud and maybe try it with a new set of buttons. If this doesn't work then you probably have a messed up wire or something impeding the current from reaching the lights.

[@cebuanostud]

Does it matter which side of the battery terminal to unhook?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

No, since all you are doing is stopping flow from the battery, you can disconnect any terminal.

[@cebuanostud]

@@TheMileHighMechanic I did your method, not having to remove the steering wheel is great and just slide the cables thru the slit. My only encounter is the horn got so sensitive it kept buzzing lol. Fixed it by loosening (had it too tight) the two screws that hold the airbag. thanks for the video. tc

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@cebuanostud Thank you for the feedback, I'm glad you found it helpful!!

[@danielcotter9202]

I just installed these parts per your video, and none of my buttons light up. Any ideas?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Do they function correctly? Are you sure you bought the correct ones? If yes to both, I think you just got a bad part.

[@danielcotter9202]

Thanks for getting back to me. They do not function properly. I tested the cruise control at various speeds above 35. I used your link to purchase the right ones to fit my 1998 ford ranger. I have owned this vehicle since 2002 and I know the cruise control hasn’t worked in a very long time. My controls were melted off from the hot Hawaiian sun so I figured I would try replacing them after watching your video. At least aesthetically the steering wheel looks nice now. Do you think they are bad and I should return to Amazon and swap out for a different set of controls?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

​@@danielcotter9202If they don't actuate the cruise control then it is likely not a problem with the buttons. I would check the cruise control fuses. Sounds like there is no power being sent to the buttons.

[@kingmoney-ny9ke]

Why when I put the ford middle piece back the horn stays on?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

The bolts have some wiggle room on the side of the air bag. You will need to pull the air bag towards you while you tighten them down to make sure that there is distance between the horn contacts.

[@raymondolivas8285]

Good job Brother, thank u . From Chihuahua. Mex . ✌🏻 out 😎

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Glad I could help! Cool to know that I have an audience abroad.

[@dannynqualls-gibeau8748]

So I followed all of the steps in your video, got everything back together...and the horn doesn't work now, when I press the horn. However, if I press the "Off" or "Coast" buttons on the new cruise control knobs, then the horn sounds. Any suggestions?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Hmm very odd. Does the horn pad go down all the way, or are the buttons in the way of it traveling. You need to align everything so that it can move freely. As for the OFF and CRUISE making the horn go off, that beats me. Maybe you got some wires crossed? Does the horn work as the off button for the cruise control? I suggest taking it apart and redoing it again to see if something is flipped.

[@dannynqualls-gibeau8748]

@@TheMileHighMechanic So I took it all apart and reinstalled it, following the process that you laid out here. Same result. I haven't actually driven it; I'll give that a try in a bit and see what happens.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@dannynqualls-gibeau8748 That is very odd, the only other thing that I can think of is a grounding issue. That in its self sounds very unlikely too. I am at a loss.

[@Evan_Randazzo]

Did you ever solve this? I am having the same results

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@Evan_Randazzo maybe try installing a different brand of buttons?

[@alexsanchez2580]

What floor mats do you have?

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Im pretty sure they came with the edge trim model, so I would start looking there...I did not buy them if that is what you are looking for.

[@EVO1087R]

My on button is more dim too. I got it on amazon (cheapest one). Its My friends car so he wont mind but its kind of annoying. Probably safer with the brighter off button in emergency. The Brakes turn off the cruise too but someone could forget that

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I think it is because there is more material there. Either way it is better than no light🤷

[@jeffsmith8900]

When the cruise is OFF, it lights up. When you're iIN cruise, then the ON lights, ang OFF dims.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@jeffsmith8900 That seems like a circuit issue in the buttons themselves...maybe try a different set

[@121stFleet]

Wish I knew how to find a 2005 ford excursion limited Clockspring with audio control

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Not sure what you mean, but the clockspring is there behind the airbag when you take it off

[@gerardocandelario8604]

I think you should take the negative battery cable first not the positive.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

It doesnt make a difference

[@thunderuncle229]

great vid

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Much appreciated!

[@timin770]

I ran my new harness on the bottom side of the enclosure. Much more room down there

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

I just did it the other way because that's the way it was before I took it off. In my opinion there are reasons to why engineers put things in certain places, and as a rule of thumb I just put them back where I found them. But if it works, I guess that it is fine.

[@timin770]

@@TheMileHighMechanic you did it the correct way. I was afraid of tearing it up so I took another path

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

@@timin770 hey, whatever works!

[@deepdiversbogota9528]

Perfect

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@beasthamprc8925]

Thanks bro

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

For sure that's what I'm here for!!!

[@cherylkygirl7181]

Video was informative but camera skills could use some improvement.

[@TheMileHighMechanic]

Haha, I would like to say that they have improved since then😂