How to Use Jeep's Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is a cutting-edge technology designed to enhance your driving experience by combining convenience and safety. Jeep's ACC, more than just a cruise control system, automatically adjusts your vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead, making it especially useful on long road trips and during stop-and-go traffic. Let's explore how this advanced feature works, its key benefits, and the steps to use it effectively.

What Is ACC?

Jeep's ACC takes traditional cruise control to the next level by using either laser or radar sensors to monitor the road ahead. Unlike standard cruise control, which only maintains a set speed, ACC automatically adjusts your speed to match traffic flow while keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

These sensors send signals to detect objects in the car's path, calculating their distance and speed. If a slower vehicle is detected, the system reduces your car's speed by engaging the brakes or modifying engine output. Once the path clears, ACC smoothly accelerates back to the preset speed.

Whether you're navigating a busy highway or open roads, ACC simplifies driving while ensuring maximum safety. Many modern Jeeps include this feature as standard or as part of advanced driver-assist packages.

Benefits of ACC

ACC offers benefits to make driving safe and easy by keeping a steady pace, reducing stress, and helping you enjoy the journey.

Enhancing Safety

ACC significantly reduces the likelihood of rear-end collisions. By automatically maintaining proper spacing and adjusting speed to the vehicle ahead, ACC minimizes human error, a leading cause of accidents.

Reducing Driver Fatigue

Long drives can be physically and mentally exhausting. ACC helps alleviate this by taking over repetitive tasks, such as accelerating and braking. With the system engaged, you can rest your foot and focus more on your surroundings, reducing the strain of constant speed adjustments.

Improving Comfort

ACC isn't just about staying safe — it's also about making your drive more comfortable. For people with disabilities or limited mobility, it can make driving easier and more enjoyable. In stop-and-go traffic, it takes over the hassle of constant braking and accelerating, making your daily commute much smoother.

Supporting Traffic Flow

ACC helps keep traffic moving smoothly by adjusting your speed consistently. It reduces sudden braking and acceleration, making the roads less chaotic and helping you save on fuel.

How To Activate and Deactivate Jeep's ACC

Activating and using ACC in your Jeep is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Turn on the system: Locate the ACC On/Off button on your steering wheel and press it. When activated, the instrument cluster will display an ACC Ready icon. 
• Set your speed: Use the Set+ or Set- buttons on the steering wheel to establish your desired cruising speed. The system will display this speed on the instrument cluster.
• Adjust the following distance: Use the distance setting buttons to select your preferred following distance. Options typically range from one to four bars, representing short to long distances. The system calculates the ideal gap based on your speed and this setting.
• Monitor the system: When activated, ACC automatically adjusts your speed and following distance once it's set. The display may update with messages such as System Cancel or ACC Proximity Warning if adjustments or manual overrides occur.
• Turn off the system: To deactivate ACC, press the On/Off button again. The cluster will show that ACC is off. Additionally, you can set the distance to maintain with the vehicle ahead using the distance setting buttons. These buttons allow you to choose between several options, typically represented by one to four bars.

Using ACC on the Road

When ACC is active, it adapts smoothly to changes in traffic. If a slower vehicle enters your lane, it reduces speed to maintain your set following distance. Once the lane clears, it accelerates back to the preset speed. The minimum set speed for the ACC system is 20 mph. The following are key tips for safe usage: 

• Remain attentive: While ACC automates some functions, you're still responsible for monitoring the road and steering. The system is an aid, not a substitute for active driving.
• Override when necessary: You can manually adjust speed or distance using the brake or accelerator, allowing for complete control in unexpected situations.
• Understand limitations: ACC may not function optimally in adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog, as sensors can be obstructed. Always exercise caution in such environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about how ACC works in different scenarios? Here are answers to some common questions drivers often ask. 

Can ACC Be Used in Bad Weather?

While ACC is highly reliable, it may not perform well in extreme weather, such as snow, rain, or fog. These conditions can obstruct the radar or camera sensors. In such cases, it's advisable to turn off ACC and drive manually.

Is ACC Safe for Highway and City Driving?

ACC is ideal for highways, where it can maintain consistent speeds and safe distances. Some systems also handle stop-and-go traffic, making them suitable for urban commutes. Always stay alert, especially in densely populated areas with unpredictable traffic patterns.

Does ACC Work in Stop-and-Go Traffic?

Yes, Jeep's ACC includes a stop-and-go feature in many models, allowing the system to function at low speeds. It can even bring your vehicle to a complete stop and resume automatically when traffic starts moving again, enhancing convenience in congested conditions.

Experience Jeep's ACC at Campbell Chrysler Dodge Jeep RamToday

Discover how Jeep's ACC takes safety and convenience to the next level at Campbell Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Benton, Arkansas. This innovative feature adjusts your speed automatically, ensuring a smoother, stress-free drive during commutes or road trips. Contact us today to see how it enhances your driving experience. Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions, provide personalized demonstrations, and help you find the perfect Jeep to fit your lifestyle. Schedule a test-drive and learn how Jeep's innovative technology can transform your journey.