Firm Cruise Control Buttons - Can they be swapped? - 2001 Sport Trac

[esromj]

Hello all,
I recently got a 2001 Sport Trac (Job 1). I used to drive (and still own) a 1999 Ford Taurus SE.

The Sport Trac has the cruise control buttons in the same configuration and shape as my Taurus but the buttons are really hard and I don't like them. Does anyone know if it would be possible to switch out the actual cruise control buttons so I could have the nicer buttons like on the Taurus?

I'm looking on Rock Auto and it looks like my current Sport Trac buttons are Motorcraft # SW5928. The '99 Taurus has Motorcraft # SW5916, though it looks like that is only the right side. I don't see the left side on Rock Auto's site.

My cruise control works and I wouldn't put in a lot of money/effort to change it -- but if it were cheap/easy, I definitely prefer the Taurus buttons. Has anyone else noticed the difference or considered changing? Are my cruise control buttons really firm because the rubber material is old and brittle?

 

[Klondike]

I have an 02 ST and have noticed the same with my control buttons. cant "feel" when they are pushed anymore...

Sorry I am no help, but I guess we aren't alone anymore

 

[sr139fox]

I have the same problem. My plastic covers are worn, cracked, and have holes in them. I looked at replacing them, but are well north of $100. Is there a better choice for cruise control buttons?
Dave P.

 

[05dakotatrac]

I know gen 3 Taurus/sables use a three wire plug behind the steering wheel not sure on the trac I haven't messed with mine. It's not hard to check it disconnect negative battery terminal then on the sides of the wheel just behind the cruise switches is covers that a small common tip pops off then two bolts that hold the airbag/horn assembly on pull it off slowly and disconnect the yellow wire connector at the plug at 12 o clock position of the wheel set aside and look at 2 and 10 positions the plug is about 1/8" square I will get a pic of my spares from a 99 Taurus is a bit

 

[esromj]

Over the past 2-3 seasons, I have come to find that the cruise control buttons get very nice and pliable during hot weather and have gotten hard again now that the temperatures have dropped a little. Unfortunately, it looks like me and my rock hard cruise control buttons may be in for a long winter.