What Codes Will This Page Cover?
On this page, you’ll learn more about the following diagnostic trouble codes:
- P0571 Brake Switch A Circuit
- P0572 Brake Switch A Circuit Low
- P0573 Brake Switch A Circuit High
These are two separate codes that can activate at the same time, as one is primarily just a more specific indicator than the other.
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What Is the P0571 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
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The P0571, P0572 and P0573 engine trouble codes indicate issues with the proper operation of your brake switch circuit A. P0571 indicates a general problem with the brake switch circuit. In contrast, P0572 specifically indicates that the circuit is low, while P0573 indicates that the circuit is high. Although these are labeled as “brake switch A,” the specific brake switch operation is actually the cruise control brake switch. That means the P0571, P0572, and P0573 trouble codes specifically impact your vehicle’s cruise control system.
You may also be interested in P0501 – Vehicle Speed Sensor “A” Range/performance.
More About Error Codes P0571, P0572, and P0573
Although the P0571, P0572, and P0573 fault codes primarily indicate problems with cruise control, there are some other functions that “brake switch A” helps with. For example, it can impact the shift interlock system that helps take the vehicle out of park. It can also be an issue with the brake light switch. If the brake light switch is the only problem, the code P0571 may still be logged, even though the cruise control itself is fine.
What Are the Symptoms of a P0571 Code?
The primary symptom is that the cruise control system may not work, or it may not work how it’s supposed to. Common symptoms include the cruise control not functioning at all. Although in some cases, there are various other issues: the brake pedal may not turn off the cruise control once it’s set; the cruise control functions, such as “accelerate,” may not function; or adaptive cruise control features may not work. When you press the brake pedal, there may also be issues with your brake light functioning. Although the check engine light may turn on in some cases, it may take multiple drive cycles to turn this light on, so it might not be immediately apparent.
What Are Some Causes of a P0571 Code?
The most common reason to receive a P0571 or P0573 error code is that the cruise control switch has failed. The cruise control buttons and switch can sometimes have problems due to spilled liquid. Open or shorted circuitry due to this problem happens surprisingly frequently. Other issues may include problems with the cruise control brake switch mount, bent or broken connector pins, corrosion within the harness connector, pinched wiring, debris, damaged components, or even a blown fuse. However, this is fairly uncommon because fuse boxes typically don’t overload in this way.
How Serious Is the P0571 Code?
The P0571, P0572, and P0573 engine codes should be considered fairly serious. While using cruise control isn’t mandatory to drive a vehicle safely, that doesn’t mean you can just allow the cruise control to stop functioning and assume everything will be okay. Additionally, other problems, such as the brake lights not working, can indeed impact your safety. It’s important to address the underlying cause so you can fix the core problem.
Can I Still Drive with a P0571 Code?
You can usually drive with the P0571, P0572, and P0573 cruise control codes. Unless the problem concerns a faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM), this generally doesn’t significantly impact your ability to drive the vehicle. However, if you have issues with the PCM or actual brake issues, you may want to avoid driving the vehicle until you can get it fixed. After all, even brake lamps are a key feature of driver safety and safety for your fellow drivers, and it may even be illegal in your area to drive a vehicle with a faulty brake light circuit.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0571 Code?
If the problem is with the brake light switch assembly, including a defective brake pedal, brake light switch, or cruise control brake switch, the diagnostic steps for the P0571, P0572, and P0573 codes might be surprisingly easy. However, if the problem lies outside of this or has to do with a component of your vehicle that you haven’t worked on yourself before, it can be very difficult to DIY the P0571, P0572, and P0573 code diagnostic procedures and fixes. This is why it’s generally a good idea to ask an expert for assistance, from the basic steps to more advanced equipment.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0571 Code?
The inspection process for the P0571, P0572, and P0573 codes includes checking your brake light switch assembly, clearing out dirt and debris, checking the connectors and harnesses, and ensuring the fuses are all still functioning properly. These more advanced steps can be difficult, which is why many people choose to get help from a knowledgeable expert rather than trying to fix it themselves.
Need Additional Help with Your P0571 Code?
Whether you don’t particularly enjoy DIYing for your vehicle or you’re just looking for expert help with your auto repair problems, it’s easy to find someone who can help restore your vehicle to proper functionality.
First, you should find an automobile repair shop in your area that can help. Repair shops offer knowledgeable experts who can determine what’s wrong and help you fix it.
Additionally, depending on the root cause of this problem, you may find that other trouble codes also pop up. The KBB.com OBD-II database will help you understand what these codes mean and how to fix them as well.
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