What Is Code P0573?
Code P0573 is a generic onboard diagnostics code (OBD code) or diagnostics trouble code (DTC) generated by your vehicle’s onboard computer.
The P0573 code is defined as “Cruise Control / Brake Switch A Circuit High” and indicates a high voltage signal malfunction in the cruise control brake switch (stop light switch).
The letter designation “A” can point to a particular component like a wiring harness, connector and so on. Your mechanic would have to refer to the vehicle manufacturer manual to determine which one it is.
What Is Code P0573 and How to fix?
What Are The Symptoms Of Code P0573?
A P0573 error code can come with several symptoms.
However, here are the more usual ones:
- The cruise control system doesn’t work (this is the most common symptom)
- Cruise control turns on but doesn’t engage
- Cruise control functions (set, accelerate, resume) don’t operate as they should
- Rear brake lights that don’t respond due to faulty brake light switch
Additionally, some symptoms may not only relate to the P0573 code, like the Check Engine light. An illuminated Check Engine light can indicate many things, including ABS or engine fuel issues.
Other symptoms, like a problematic speedometer needle, might not be directly related to the P0573 code (which has to do with the brake switch) but can be caused by a component that affects both.
For example, a faulty PCM could be misinterpreting wheel sensor speeds and the brake switch circuit signal simultaneously.
How Is The P0573 Code Diagnosed?
To start the diagnostic steps, your mechanic will turn on the ignition and read all the stored codes with an OBD scan tool. They will then clear the code and test drive your vehicle to check if the DTC returns.
If the DTC returns, they’ll first check the brake light switch assembly, as this is the most common cause for the P0573 error code.
They could also check for noticeable issues like a faulty fuse or damaged wiring harness.
How Is The P0573 Code Fixed?
Depending on the cause, the repair procedure for the P0573 code could involve:
- Replacing a faulty cruise control brake switch
- Replacing a blown fuse
- Replacing a defective brake pedal or brake light switch
- Clearing dirt and debris from the cruise control brake switch assembly
- Replacing or repairing a damaged harness, connectors, and so on
Your mechanic might even need to replace your PCM.
However, this is rare and will require a flash process to calibrate the new PCM to your vehicle).
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OBD CODE P0010 : A Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 1