P0567 is a diagnostic trouble code that points to a problem in your cruise control system, specifically the “resume” control circuit. While it usually won’t leave you stranded, it can be annoying and may hint at deeper electrical or wiring issues if ignored. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what P0567 means, the most common causes, symptoms to watch for, how a mechanic would diagnose it, and what repairs typically cost. That way, you can talk confidently with your shop or decide if it’s a DIY job.
What Does P0567 Mean?
P0567 is an OBD-II code defined as “Cruise Control Resume Signal Malfunction” or “Cruise Control Resume Input Circuit.” In simple terms, your vehicle’s ECU (engine control unit) is not seeing the correct signal from the switch or circuit that tells the cruise control to resume a previously set speed.
This signal usually comes from the steering wheel or stalk-mounted cruise control switch. If the voltage, resistance, or logic from that switch is outside the expected range, the ECU flags P0567. The issue can be with the switch itself, the wiring, a bad ground, or in some cases a fault inside the ECU or body control module.
Quick Reference
- Code: P0567
- Meaning: Cruise control “resume” signal/circuit malfunction
- Severity: Low to moderate (mostly comfort/convenience)
- Common Causes: Faulty cruise switch, wiring issues, clock spring
- Typical Fixes: Switch replacement, wiring repair, connector cleaning
Real-World Example / Field Notes
In the shop, I usually see P0567 on vehicles where the cruise control buttons have been acting flaky for a while. A typical scenario: you press “Set” and it works sometimes, but “Resume” is dead or only responds if you press it hard or wiggle the steering wheel. On many trucks and SUVs, the steering wheel buttons or the clock spring (the rotating electrical connector behind the wheel) are common failure points. I’ve also fixed this code just by cleaning a corroded connector in the steering column or under the dash.
Symptoms of P0567
- Cruise control won’t resume: The most obvious symptom is that the “Resume” button does nothing after you cancel cruise.
- Intermittent cruise operation: Cruise may work sometimes, then drop out or refuse to resume at random.
- Other buttons misbehaving: Set/Coast or Accel buttons may also act inconsistent if the switch assembly is failing.
- Cruise indicator light issues: The cruise light may come on but the system won’t actually engage or resume.
- Stored DTC with no obvious change: You may only notice the check engine light or a stored code during a scan, with cruise working most of the time.
- Related brake switch behavior: A faulty brake pedal switch may cause cruise to cancel too easily and set related codes.
- Steering wheel button wear: Soft, sticky, or cracked buttons on the wheel are a visual clue that the switch may be failing.
Common Causes of P0567
Most Common Causes
- Faulty cruise control switch: Worn or internally shorted “Resume” button in the steering wheel or stalk is the number one cause.
- Clock spring failure: The rotating ribbon cable behind the steering wheel can break or develop high resistance, interrupting the resume signal.
- Wiring or connector issues: Loose, corroded, or pinched wires between the switch, clock spring, and ECU can distort the signal.
- Contamination in switch contacts: Spilled drinks, dirt, or moisture can get into steering wheel controls and cause poor contact.
Less Common Causes
- Faulty brake pedal switch: If the ECU thinks the brakes are applied, it may ignore the resume signal and set a cruise-related code.
- ECU or BCM internal fault: Rarely, a failure inside the engine control unit or body control module can misread the input.
- Aftermarket accessories: Poorly installed remote start, alarm, or steering wheel control adapters can interfere with the cruise circuits.
- Ground or power supply issues: Weak grounds or low system voltage can cause erratic input readings on sensitive circuits.
Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide
To properly track down P0567, you’ll want a basic scan tool (ideally with live data), a digital multimeter, and a wiring diagram for your specific vehicle. A back-probe kit and test light also make the job easier. If you’re not comfortable pulling the steering wheel or airbag, this is where a professional shop is worth it.
- Confirm the code and check for others: Use an OBD-II scanner to verify P0567 and look for related cruise, brake switch, or communication codes. Multiple codes can point you straight to a shared wiring issue.
- Test cruise control operation: On a safe road, see if cruise will set, cancel, and resume. Note exactly which buttons work or fail. Intermittent behavior usually points to the switch or clock spring.
- Inspect steering wheel controls: Check the condition of the cruise buttons. Look for worn, sticky, or broken buttons, or signs of drink spills. Gently press and wiggle the buttons while watching for changes.
- Check live data (if available): Many scan tools let you see “Cruise Resume Switch” status. Press the resume button and verify that the ECU sees the input change from OFF to ON. If it doesn’t change, the fault is between the switch and ECU.
- Inspect wiring and connectors: With the battery disconnected, remove the steering column covers. Inspect connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or loose locks. Follow the harness from the switch/clock spring toward the dash for damage or chafing.
- Test the switch with a multimeter: Disconnect the cruise switch connector and measure resistance or continuity across the resume circuit while pressing the button. Compare readings to factory specs. Infinite resistance or no change indicates a bad switch.
- Evaluate the clock spring: If other steering wheel functions (horn, airbag light, radio controls) are acting up, suspect the clock spring. With proper procedures (and battery disconnected), test continuity through the clock spring circuits.
- Verify brake switch operation: Make sure the brake lights work correctly and the brake switch input in live data changes cleanly when you press and release the pedal. A stuck or misadjusted brake switch can prevent cruise from resuming.
- Check power, ground, and reference voltage: At the switch connector, verify proper power and ground, and that any reference voltage from the ECU is within spec. Low voltage or poor ground can distort the signal.
- Re-scan after any repair: Clear the code, road test the vehicle, and re-check for P0567. If it returns immediately and all wiring/switch tests are good, deeper ECU or BCM diagnostics may be needed.
Pro tip: On many vehicles you can use Mode $06 data to see if the cruise control input tests are close to failing before the code sets. This can help catch a weak switch that only fails under certain conditions.
Possible Fixes & Repair Costs
Most P0567 repairs are straightforward once you pinpoint the fault. Typical fixes include:
- Replacing the cruise control switch or steering wheel button assembly
- Replacing a faulty clock spring behind the steering wheel
- Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or corroded connectors
- Adjusting or replacing the brake pedal switch if it’s related
- In rare cases, repairing or replacing the ECU/BCM
Repair costs vary by vehicle and labor rates. A cruise switch replacement can run about $100–$300 parts and labor. A clock spring job is typically $200–$500. Wiring repairs might range from $100–$250 depending on access. An ECU or BCM replacement, while uncommon for this code, can easily exceed $600–$1,200. Factors that affect cost include vehicle make, airbag/steering wheel complexity, and whether diagnostic time is extensive.
Can I Still Drive With P0567?
In most cases, you can continue driving with P0567 without immediate risk of engine damage. The main impact is that cruise control may not resume or may work intermittently, which is more of a convenience issue than a safety one. That said, if the cause is a failing clock spring or damaged wiring in the steering column, you could eventually see problems with the airbag, horn, or other controls. So it’s safe short-term, but you shouldn’t ignore it for months.
What Happens If You Ignore P0567?
If you ignore P0567, you’ll likely just live without reliable cruise control, but underlying electrical issues can slowly get worse. A deteriorating clock spring or harness can start affecting other circuits, possibly triggering airbag lights or disabling steering wheel controls. Small wiring problems rarely fix themselves; they usually spread, become intermittent, and are harder and more expensive to track down later.
Related Codes
- P0574 – Cruise Control System Vehicle Speed Too High
- P0573 – Brake Switch “A” Circuit High
- P0572 – Brake Switch “A” Circuit Low
- P0571 – Brake Switch “A” Circuit
- P0570 – Cruise Control Accelerate Signal
- P0569 – Cruise Control Coast Signal
- P0568 – Cruise Control Set Signal
- P0566 – Cruise Control Off Signal
- P0565 – Cruise Control On Signal
- P0564 – Cruise Control Multi-Function Input “A” Circuit
Key Takeaways
- P0567 points to a fault in the cruise control “resume” signal or circuit, usually in the switch or steering column area.
- Symptoms are mostly convenience-related, but they can hint at bigger wiring or clock spring issues.
- Most common fixes are replacing the cruise switch or clock spring, or repairing wiring/connectors.
- Driving is usually safe, but delaying repairs can lead to more expensive electrical or airbag-related problems.
- A proper diagnosis with a scan tool and multimeter saves time and avoids guessing at parts.
Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0567
P0567 can show up on almost any OBD-II vehicle with cruise control, but it’s more frequently seen on certain platforms. Many Ford trucks and SUVs (F-150, Expedition, Explorer), GM pickups and SUVs (Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban), and Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge models with steering wheel cruise buttons are regular visitors in the shop. It’s also seen on some Hyundai, Kia, Honda, and Toyota models where steering wheel switches and clock springs are known wear items. High-mileage vehicles and those with heavy steering wheel use are more prone to this code.
FAQ
Can P0567 cause my cruise control to stop working completely?
Yes, it can. If the resume circuit or switch assembly is badly failed, the ECU may disable cruise control entirely, not just the resume function. In other cases, cruise might still set and hold speed but won’t resume after you cancel.
Is P0567 related to the brake light switch?
Indirectly, it can be. The code itself targets the resume signal, but if the brake switch is stuck or sending a bad signal, the ECU may ignore resume commands and log related cruise control codes. That’s why checking the brake switch is part of a good diagnosis.
Can I fix P0567 myself at home?
If you’re comfortable removing steering column covers and working around airbags (with the battery disconnected and proper procedures), you can often replace the cruise switch or clock spring at home. You’ll still need a scan tool to clear the code and verify the repair.
Does P0567 mean I need a new ECU?
Almost never. ECU or BCM failure is at the bottom of the list. In the real world, worn switches, broken clock springs, and wiring issues cause the vast majority of P0567 cases. The ECU is only suspected after all other components and circuits test good.
Will clearing the code make P0567 go away for good?
Clearing the code with a scanner only erases the stored fault temporarily. If the underlying problem is still there, P0567 will come back once the ECU runs its cruise control input tests again. The only permanent solution is to find and fix the root cause.