Hey guys! Let's talk cruise control in the new 2025 Lexus ES 350. Cruise control is no longer just a simple feature; it's evolved into a sophisticated system that enhances your driving experience. Understanding how it works, its benefits, and troubleshooting common issues can make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable. So, buckle up as we explore everything you need to know about the 2025 Lexus ES 350's cruise control system.

What is Cruise Control and Why Should You Care?

At its core, cruise control is a system that automatically maintains a set speed for your vehicle. Back in the day, it was a simple mechanism to keep your car moving at a constant pace on long highway drives. However, modern cruise control systems, like the one in the 2025 Lexus ES 350, have become much more advanced. They now integrate with other vehicle systems to provide features like adaptive cruise control, which can adjust your speed based on the traffic around you.

Why should you care? Well, for starters, cruise control can significantly reduce driver fatigue on long trips. By maintaining a constant speed, you don't have to constantly monitor the accelerator pedal, allowing you to relax and focus more on the road. This is especially beneficial on monotonous highway stretches.

Moreover, cruise control can improve your fuel efficiency. By maintaining a consistent speed, you avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel. This can lead to significant savings over time, especially if you frequently drive on highways. Plus, with adaptive cruise control, you can maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, further enhancing safety and convenience.

The Advanced Cruise Control System in the 2025 Lexus ES 350

The 2025 Lexus ES 350 takes cruise control to the next level with its advanced system. This system uses a combination of radar and cameras to monitor the traffic ahead and automatically adjust your speed to maintain a safe following distance. It's not just about setting a speed and forgetting it; it's about creating a more relaxed and safer driving experience.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): The star of the show is the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system. ACC uses radar sensors in the front of the car to detect vehicles ahead. If the vehicle in front slows down, your ES 350 will automatically slow down to maintain a safe following distance. Once the vehicle speeds up or changes lanes, your car will accelerate back to your set speed. This feature is incredibly useful in stop-and-go traffic, as it reduces the need for constant braking and acceleration.

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Complementing the ACC is the Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) system. LKA uses cameras to monitor the lane markings on the road. If your car starts to drift out of its lane, the system will provide gentle steering inputs to guide you back into the center of the lane. This feature helps prevent accidental lane departures, especially on long, monotonous drives. The combination of ACC and LKA creates a semi-autonomous driving experience, making your journeys safer and more comfortable.

Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR): Another handy feature is the Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) system. TSR uses cameras to read traffic signs along the road, such as speed limits and warning signs. This information is then displayed on the car's dashboard, helping you stay aware of the current driving conditions. The system can also be integrated with the cruise control, automatically adjusting your speed to match the posted speed limit. This helps you avoid speeding tickets and ensures you're always driving at a safe and appropriate speed.

How to Use the Cruise Control in Your 2025 Lexus ES 350

Using the cruise control in your 2025 Lexus ES 350 is pretty straightforward, but let's walk through the steps to ensure you're comfortable with the system. First, make sure you're on a road where cruise control is appropriate – typically a highway or a long, open road with minimal traffic lights and intersections.

1. Engaging Cruise Control: To engage the cruise control, first accelerate to your desired speed. Then, locate the cruise control stalk on the steering wheel. It's usually on the right-hand side. Push the stalk away from you to activate the system. The cruise control indicator light will illuminate on the dashboard, indicating that the system is active.
2. Setting Your Speed: Once the system is active, you can set your desired speed by pressing the "SET+" or "SET-" buttons on the cruise control stalk. Each press will increase or decrease your speed by a small increment. You can also hold the button down to adjust the speed more quickly. The current set speed will be displayed on the dashboard.
3. Adjusting Following Distance: If your ES 350 is equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control, you can adjust the following distance by pressing the following distance button on the steering wheel. This button usually has an icon of a car with lines behind it. Each press will cycle through the available following distances – typically short, medium, and long. Choose the following distance that feels most comfortable and safe for the current driving conditions.
4. Disengaging Cruise Control: To disengage the cruise control, you can either tap the brake pedal, push the cruise control stalk towards you, or turn off the system using the main power button. When you disengage the system, the cruise control indicator light will turn off. Remember, disengaging the cruise control does not erase your set speed. You can resume the system at any time by pushing the stalk away from you again.
5. Resuming Cruise Control: To resume the cruise control at your previously set speed, push the cruise control stalk upwards. The system will automatically accelerate to your set speed. This is a convenient feature for maintaining a consistent speed on long drives. Just be sure to pay attention to your surroundings and be prepared to disengage the system if necessary.

Troubleshooting Common Cruise Control Issues

Even with advanced systems, sometimes things can go wrong. Here are a few common issues you might encounter with the cruise control in your 2025 Lexus ES 350, along with some troubleshooting tips.

• Cruise Control Not Engaging: If the cruise control system fails to engage when you press the button, the first thing to check is the cruise control indicator light on the dashboard. If the light doesn't illuminate, it could indicate a problem with the system itself. Make sure that your car is traveling at a speed that is compatible with the cruise control system. Most systems require a minimum speed of around 25 mph. Check your owner's manual for the exact specifications.

  Another potential cause could be a faulty brake light switch. The cruise control system is designed to disengage when the brakes are applied. If the brake light switch is malfunctioning, it could prevent the cruise control from engaging. You can test the brake lights to see if they are working properly. If not, you may need to replace the brake light switch.

• Cruise Control Disengaging Unexpectedly: If the cruise control disengages unexpectedly while you're driving, it could be due to a variety of factors. One common cause is a sudden change in road conditions, such as heavy rain or snow. The system may disengage automatically to prevent loss of control. Also, if the radar sensors or cameras are obstructed by dirt, snow, or other debris, the system may disengage.

  Another possibility is a problem with the vehicle's stability control system. If the system detects a loss of traction or stability, it may disengage the cruise control to allow you to regain control of the vehicle. If the issue persists, it's best to take your car to a certified Lexus technician for diagnosis and repair.

• Adaptive Cruise Control Not Working Properly: If your ES 350 is equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control and it's not working as expected, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that the radar sensors and cameras are clean and unobstructed. Any dirt, snow, or other debris can interfere with the system's ability to detect vehicles ahead. Also, check the settings in the car's infotainment system to ensure that the Adaptive Cruise Control is enabled and configured correctly.

  If the system still isn't working properly, it could indicate a problem with the radar sensors or cameras themselves. These components are sensitive and can be damaged by impacts or extreme weather conditions. If you suspect a problem with the sensors or cameras, it's best to take your car to a certified Lexus technician for inspection and repair.

Tips for Safe Cruise Control Use

While cruise control can make driving easier and more comfortable, it's important to use it safely and responsibly. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Stay Alert and Attentive: Even when using cruise control, it's important to remain alert and attentive to your surroundings. Don't rely solely on the system to maintain a safe speed and following distance. Always be prepared to disengage the system and take control of the vehicle if necessary.
• Use Cruise Control in Appropriate Conditions: Cruise control is best suited for long, open roads with minimal traffic lights and intersections. Avoid using it in heavy traffic, on winding roads, or in inclement weather conditions. In these situations, it's better to maintain full control of the vehicle.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to the traffic around you and be prepared to adjust your speed or following distance as needed. Don't assume that the cruise control system will always make the right decisions. It's your responsibility to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.
• Practice Using the System: Before using cruise control on a long trip, take some time to practice using the system in a safe and controlled environment. This will help you become familiar with the system's features and limitations. It's also a good idea to review the owner's manual for detailed instructions and safety information.

Conclusion

The cruise control system in the 2025 Lexus ES 350 is a valuable tool that can enhance your driving experience. By understanding how the system works, its benefits, and how to troubleshoot common issues, you can make the most of this technology and enjoy safer, more comfortable journeys. So, the next time you hit the open road, take advantage of the cruise control system in your ES 350 and experience the difference it can make!