P0564 – Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & How to Fix It

P0564 is an OBD-II trouble code that points to a problem in the cruise control system’s “multi-function input” circuit. In plain language, your car’s computer is not happy with the electrical signal it’s getting from the cruise control switches on the steering wheel or stalk. While this code usually doesn’t leave you stranded, it can disable cruise control and sometimes indicates wiring or switch issues that may get worse over time. Understanding what triggers P0564 helps you decide if it’s a quick DIY fix or a job for a professional.

What Does P0564 Mean?

P0564 stands for “Cruise Control Multi-Function Input ‘A’ Circuit.” Your vehicle’s ECU (engine control unit) constantly monitors the cruise control switch inputs—ON, OFF, SET, RESUME, CANCEL, and sometimes speed up/down. When the voltage or signal pattern from this circuit is out of the expected range, the ECU stores P0564 and usually disables cruise control as a safety measure.

This code is almost always an electrical or switch issue, not a problem with the engine itself. It can be as simple as a worn steering wheel switch, a broken clockspring, or a wiring fault between the switch and the ECU or body control module (BCM).

Quick Reference

Code: P0564 – Cruise Control Multi-Function Input “A” Circuit
Severity: Low to moderate (comfort/safety feature, not engine damage)
Common Cause: Faulty cruise control switch or clockspring
Typical Symptoms: Cruise control inoperative or intermittent
Usual Fix: Switch or clockspring replacement, wiring repair

Real-World Example / Field Notes

In the shop, I see P0564 most often on vehicles where the owner says, “My cruise works sometimes, then just shuts off.” On one mid-2000s sedan, the code would set only when the driver turned the wheel sharply on the highway. A quick check showed the horn acting up too. That pointed straight at the clockspring in the steering column. Replacing the clockspring fixed the cruise control, cleared P0564, and restored the horn and steering wheel audio controls—all from one faulty part.

Symptoms of P0564

Cruise control inoperative – The system will not turn on or will not hold speed.
Intermittent cruise operation – Cruise works sometimes, then randomly disengages.
Cruise light not responding – Indicator on the dash does not illuminate when you press the switch.
Other steering wheel buttons acting up – Horn, radio, or phone controls may be intermittent if the clockspring is involved.
Check engine light on – MIL or a separate cruise warning light may appear.
Unusual behavior when pressing switches – Wrong function triggers, or no response from SET/RESUME.
Additional related codes – Other cruise or steering wheel control codes may be stored.

Common Causes of P0564

Most Common Causes

Faulty cruise control switch – Worn internal contacts or contamination inside the steering wheel or stalk switch.
Damaged clockspring (spiral cable) – The ribbon cable inside the steering column can crack or break, interrupting signals.
Loose or corroded connectors – Moisture, spilled drinks, or age can corrode connectors at the steering wheel, column, or under the dash.
Wiring issues in the steering column – Pinched, chafed, or broken wires between the switch and ECU/BCM.
Incorrect aftermarket steering wheel or controls – Poorly installed aftermarket wheels or audio controls can disturb the circuit.

Less Common Causes

Faulty body control module (BCM) or ECU – Internal failure or software glitch in the module that interprets the switch signals.
Blown fuse or relay related to cruise control – Less common but possible on some models.
Water intrusion – Leaks into the cabin or steering column causing intermittent shorts.
Previous airbag or steering repair damage – Misrouted wiring or damaged clockspring after steering wheel or airbag service.
Faulty brake or clutch switch interaction – On some vehicles, abnormal brake/clutch switch signals can confuse the cruise circuit and trigger P0564.

Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide

You’ll want a basic scan tool (ideally one that can read live data and Mode $06), a digital multimeter, a wiring diagram for your vehicle, and basic hand tools. If you’re not comfortable working around airbag components in the steering wheel, it’s smart to let a pro handle anything involving the clockspring or airbag removal.

Confirm the code and record freeze-frame data. Use a scan tool to read P0564 and note when it set (vehicle speed, steering angle, switch state). Clear the code and see if it returns.
Check cruise control operation. With the engine running and parked, try turning cruise ON/OFF, press SET/RESUME, and watch the dash indicator. Note which buttons respond and which don’t.
Inspect related fuses. Find the cruise control, stop lamp, and accessory fuses in the owner’s manual or service data. Replace any blown fuses and investigate why they blew.
Visually inspect the steering wheel and column. Look for signs of damage, aftermarket wiring, or evidence of previous airbag/steering work. Wiggle the wheel gently while trying the switches; intermittent operation can point to a failing clockspring.
Check live data for switch inputs. Many scan tools show cruise switch status (ON/OFF, SET, RESUME). Press each button and confirm the ECU sees the correct change. If the ECU never sees the switch move, the fault is between the switch and the module.
Test the cruise control switch. With the battery disconnected (and airbag precautions followed), remove the switch or steering wheel trim. Use a multimeter to check resistance or continuity according to the wiring diagram. Out-of-spec readings indicate a bad switch.
Evaluate the clockspring. If multiple steering wheel functions (horn, audio, cruise) act up, suspect the clockspring. With proper safety procedures, test continuity through the clockspring circuits. Any open circuit when the wheel is turned suggests replacement.
Inspect wiring and connectors. Trace the harness from the steering column to the BCM/ECU. Look for rubbed-through insulation, broken wires, or loose connectors. Repair or solder/heat-shrink as needed, not just tape over damage.
Check for TSBs and software updates. Some manufacturers release technical service bulletins for known cruise control or switch issues. A dealer or good independent shop can check for updates.
Re-test and road test. After repairs, clear codes, operate the cruise at highway speed, and verify the system holds speed without dropping out. Re-scan to confirm P0564 does not return.

Pro tip: If your scan tool supports it, watch Mode $06 or live data for each individual cruise switch state. This lets you see borderline or “bouncing” signals from a failing switch long before it completely dies.

Possible Fixes & Repair Costs

The exact repair depends on what you find during diagnosis, but most P0564 fixes are straightforward electrical or component replacements rather than major mechanical work.

Replace cruise control switch: Common on vehicles with steering wheel-mounted controls. Parts typically $40–$150, labor $80–$200 depending on access.
Replace clockspring (spiral cable): Very common when multiple steering wheel functions fail. Parts usually $80–$300, labor $150–$350 because the airbag and wheel must be removed.
Repair wiring/connectors: Cost varies widely. Simple repairs might be $50–$150; more complex harness work can run $200–$500.
Module repair or replacement (BCM/ECU): Least common. Parts $300–$1,000+ and programming/labor $150–$400.

In most cases, you’re looking at a total repair cost in the $150–$500 range at a typical shop. Factors that affect cost include vehicle make, whether airbag components must be removed, dealer vs. independent shop labor rates, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used.

Can I Still Drive With P0564?

Yes, you can usually keep driving with P0564 without risking immediate engine or transmission damage. The main inconvenience is losing cruise control, which can make long trips more tiring. However, if the root cause is a failing clockspring or damaged wiring in the steering column, ignoring it could eventually affect other functions like the horn or airbag system. If you notice additional symptoms—airbag light, horn not working, or other buttons failing—treat it as more urgent and have it checked soon.

What Happens If You Ignore P0564?

If you ignore P0564, you’ll likely just live without cruise control at first. Over time, the underlying issue can worsen. A failing clockspring can lead to loss of horn, audio controls, or even airbag communication. Damaged wiring can short, potentially blowing fuses or causing intermittent electrical problems that are harder and more expensive to track down later. Fixing it early is usually cheaper and more convenient.

Last updated: March 1, 2026

Key Takeaways

P0564 means the ECU is seeing an abnormal signal from the cruise control multi-function input circuit.
The most common culprits are a worn cruise switch, bad clockspring, or wiring/connectors in the steering column.
You can usually drive with this code, but cruise control may not work and related systems can be affected over time.
Diagnosis focuses on checking switch operation, live data, and continuity through the clockspring and wiring.
Typical repair costs range from about $150 to $500, depending on the part and labor involved.

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0564

P0564 can show up on many OBD-II vehicles, but it’s especially common on models with lots of steering wheel-mounted controls. You’ll see it fairly often on:

Ford and Lincoln – F-150, Explorer, Fusion, and similar models with integrated wheel controls.
GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac) – Trucks and SUVs like Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, and crossovers with multi-function steering wheels.
Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram – Especially vehicles where horn, audio, and cruise share the clockspring.
Hyundai and Kia – Sedans and SUVs with steering wheel cruise buttons.
Volkswagen and Audi – Models using stalk-mounted or steering wheel cruise switches.
Honda and Toyota – Less frequent, but still seen on popular models with aging clocksprings.

Any vehicle with a multi-function steering wheel and an older or high-mileage clockspring is a candidate for P0564 when those internal circuits start to fail.

FAQ

Can I clear P0564 and keep driving without fixing it?

You can clear P0564 with a scan tool, and the code may stay away for a while if the fault is intermittent. However, if the underlying issue is still there, the code will usually return and cruise control will remain unreliable. Clearing the code alone is not a real fix.

Is P0564 related to the airbag light or horn not working?

It can be. If the clockspring is failing, you might see P0564 along with an airbag warning light, a non-functioning horn, or dead steering wheel audio buttons. All of these signals pass through the same clockspring assembly, so multiple symptoms often point to that part.

How do I know if the cruise switch or clockspring is bad?

If only the cruise buttons act up but the horn and other wheel controls work fine, the switch itself is more likely. If several steering wheel functions fail or change when you turn the wheel, the clockspring is the top suspect. Testing with a scan tool and multimeter confirms which component is faulty.

Can a bad brake switch cause P0564?

Indirectly, yes. On some vehicles, the cruise system monitors the brake switch closely. If the brake switch is sending erratic signals, it can confuse the cruise logic and contribute to P0564 or related codes. If you have both P0564 and a brake switch code like P0571, address the brake switch first.

Do I need a dealer to fix P0564, or can an independent shop handle it?

Most independent shops can diagnose and repair P0564 without any problem, especially when it’s a switch, clockspring, or wiring issue. A dealer may be needed only if a module replacement and programming are required or if there’s a manufacturer-specific software update or TSB that applies to your vehicle.

P0564 – Cruise Control Multi-Function Input “A” Circuit