Categories: FAQ

What is Kia Smart Cruise Control?

Frequently Asked Questions about Kia Smart Cruise Control

In this guide, we’ll cover what Kia’s Smart Cruise Control is, its operating conditions, and how to turn it off, addressing frequently asked questions about Kia Smart Cruise Control. Stick around with Kia of Irvine to learn more, and visit us in Irvine, CA, after you read. 



Kia Smart Cruise Control explained

Smart Cruise Control (SCC) is an advanced driver assistance system that makes highway driving easier and safer by automatically adjusting your vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead. Unlike standard cruise control, which maintains a fixed speed, Smart Cruise Control uses radar and camera sensors to dynamically adjust speed, keeping you at a safe following distance in varying traffic conditions. 


How does Kia Smart Cruise Control work?

Smart Cruise Control leverages radar and camera sensors to detect the speed and distance of the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your vehicle’s speed to maintain a preset distance. This system works in two main modes, depending on traffic flow: 

  • With a vehicle in front: SCC adjusts your speed to match the car in front, allowing for safe following at speeds from 0 to 112 mph.
  • No vehicle in front: SCC maintains your selected speed, between 5 and 112 mph, provided the road is clear ahead.

Kia Smart Cruise Control conditions not met

There are specific conditions under which Kia Smart Cruise Control will not engage, even if it’s turned on. Here are the primary “conditions not met” scenarios for SCC: 

  • Speed requirements: The vehicle must be driving between 5 and 112 mph when no car is ahead or between 0 and 112 mph with a vehicle in front.
  • Drive mode: SCC only functions when the vehicle is in Drive mode.
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Both ESC and ABS must be active for SCC to operate correctly.

Additionally, SCC will disengage or be temporarily unavailable under the following conditions: 

  • Driver’s door open: If the driver’s door is open, the system will not engage.
  • High engine RPM: High engine revolutions per minute (RPM) can disable SCC as it may indicate manual control or erratic driving behavior.
  • Electric Parking Brake (EPB) Applied: When the EPB is in use, SCC will not operate.
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): If ABS is actively controlling the vehicle, SCC may pause.
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): When FCA’s brake control is in use, SCC disengages to give priority to collision avoidance.

By understanding these limitations, drivers can know when to expect SCC to be unavailable or to turn it off if specific conditions prevent it from working as expected. 


How to turn off Kia Smart Cruise Control

If you wish to turn off Smart Cruise Control, it’s a simple process: 

  1. Locate the driving assist button: Find the button for driving assist on the steering wheel.
  2. Press the button: A single press of the button will turn off SCC.

Smart Cruise Control (SCC) | Kia


SCC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Can I override Kia Smart Cruise Control manually?

Yes, you can override SCC by pressing the accelerator or brake, allowing you to take manual control as needed. 

  1. What if my Kia shows “Smart Cruise Control Conditions Not Met” frequently?

If you frequently see this message, it could indicate that one of the required conditions is not being met. Double-check your drive mode and speed, and make sure that ESC and ABS are functioning properly. If you continue to experience issues, consult your local Kia service center for assistance. 

  1. Is Smart Cruise Control the same as Adaptive Cruise Control?

Yes, Smart Cruise Control is an adaptive cruise control system that adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car in front. 



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