My 240D was in the same shape. The previous owner removed the control stalk and discarded (2 screws hold in place). After checking out the actuator, I found that it was dead and I have not been able to repair it. The amplifier is under the steering wheel on top of the kick panel.

My guess is when the actuator or amplifier die, rather than spend big bucks to fix, some folks just want to remove the evidence that the car even has cruise control.

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1976 240D
1987 560SL
2007 E320 Bluetec
1998 C280 (now son’s car)
1982 240D Manual - Sold