P0569 is a diagnostic trouble code that points to an electrical problem in the cruise control “Coast/Set” signal circuit. In plain language, your car’s computer is seeing something wrong with the input from the cruise control switch when you try to coast or set speed. While this code usually isn’t an emergency, it can disable cruise control or make it act inconsistently. Understanding what P0569 means, what causes it, and how you or a technician can diagnose it will help you avoid wasted parts, misdiagnosis, and unnecessary repair bills.
What Does P0569 Mean?
P0569 is defined as “Cruise Control Coast/Set Signal Malfunction” (wording can vary slightly by manufacturer). Your engine control unit (ECU) or body control module (BCM) monitors the cruise control switch inputs. When it sees an electrical value from the Coast/Set button that’s out of the expected range, missing, or stuck, it stores P0569 and may turn on the check engine light or a cruise control warning.
This code is focused on the electrical signal, not the mechanical throttle itself. The issue can be as simple as a worn steering wheel switch or as involved as damaged wiring in the steering column or clockspring.
Quick Reference
- Code: P0569
- Meaning: Cruise Control Coast/Set signal malfunction
- Severity: Low to moderate (comfort/convenience issue)
- Typical Symptoms: Cruise inoperative, can’t set or coast, warning lights
- Common Causes: Faulty cruise switch, wiring fault, clockspring, rare ECU issue
Real-World Example / Field Notes
In the shop, I usually see P0569 on vehicles where the owner complains that cruise control works “sometimes” or only if they wiggle the steering wheel buttons. One common case: a mid-2000s sedan where the Coast/Set button felt a little mushy. Cruise would turn on, but pressing Set did nothing. Scan data showed the ECU never saw the Coast/Set command. A quick check at the clockspring connector found good power and ground, but no change in signal when pressing the button. Replacing the steering wheel switch assembly fixed the issue with no further codes.
Symptoms of P0569
- Cruise control inoperative – Cruise won’t engage at all when you press Set.
- Intermittent cruise operation – Cruise works sometimes, then randomly drops out.
- Coast/Set button not responding – Pressing Set or Coast does nothing, but On/Off may still work.
- Warning light illuminated – Check engine light, or a dedicated cruise control indicator on some vehicles.
- Stored cruise-related codes – P0569 may appear with other cruise or switch circuit codes.
- Need to hold button to work – You might have to press or wiggle the button in a certain way to get a response.
- No change in RPM when using cruise – Vehicle speed stays constant only by your foot, not by the cruise system.
Common Causes of P0569
Most Common Causes
- Faulty cruise control switch assembly – The steering wheel switch for Coast/Set wears out, sticks, or fails internally, sending incorrect voltage back to the ECU.
- Clockspring (spiral cable) issues – The rotating electrical connector behind the steering wheel can develop open circuits or intermittent connections on the cruise control circuit.
- Damaged wiring in steering column – Chafed, pinched, or broken wires between the switch, clockspring, and control module are very common, especially on older or high-mileage vehicles.
- Poor electrical connection at connectors – Corrosion, loose pins, or moisture intrusion at the switch or module connectors can distort the signal.
Less Common Causes
- Faulty brake switch interaction – Some systems share logic between the brake switch and cruise inputs. A misadjusted or failing brake switch can confuse the ECU and trigger cruise-related codes.
- Body control module (BCM) or ECU fault – Internal failure of the module that interprets the cruise signals. This is rare and usually confirmed only after all wiring and switch tests pass.
- Aftermarket accessories – Poorly installed alarms, remote start systems, or steering wheel audio controls can tap into or damage the cruise control wiring.
- Water intrusion – Leaks into the steering column or dash can corrode connectors and circuits tied to the cruise switch.
Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide
Tools you’ll want: basic hand tools, a good OBD-II scan tool (preferably with live data and Mode $06), a digital multimeter, wiring diagrams for your vehicle, and possibly a back-probing kit for connectors. A factory service manual or reliable repair database is very helpful.
- Confirm the code and record data. Connect a scan tool, read all stored and pending codes, and note freeze-frame data. Look for other cruise or brake switch codes that may point to a shared issue.
- Test cruise operation. On a safe road, attempt to turn cruise on, set speed, and use Coast/Resume. Note exactly which buttons work and which don’t; this pattern is a big clue.
- Check live data for switch status. Many scan tools can show “Cruise Set,” “Coast,” or “Cruise Switch” status. Press the buttons and see if the ECU registers the input. If the ECU never sees Coast/Set change, focus on that circuit.
- Inspect steering wheel switch. With the key off, gently move the steering wheel and press the cruise buttons. Feel for sticky, loose, or inconsistent button action. Remove the switch trim (if accessible) and check for obvious damage or spilled liquids.
- Inspect clockspring and column wiring. Disconnect the battery and wait a few minutes before touching airbag or steering components. Check the wiring harness from the switch to the clockspring and from the clockspring to the column connector for rubbing, cuts, or stretched wires.
- Check voltage and continuity. Using the wiring diagram, test the Coast/Set signal wire at the connector with a multimeter. Verify proper reference voltage and that pressing the button changes the signal as specified. If voltage changes at the switch but not at the module, suspect the clockspring or intermediate wiring.
- Check connectors for corrosion or loose pins. Unplug related connectors (switch, clockspring, BCM/ECU) and inspect for green corrosion, bent pins, or moisture. Clean and repair as needed, then retest.
- Use Mode $06 or manufacturer tests if available. Some vehicles provide detailed cruise switch test data in Mode $06 or special function menus. Run those tests to see if the ECU flags a specific button or circuit.
- Substitute known-good parts if necessary. If all wiring checks out but the signal is still wrong, replacing the steering wheel switch assembly is often the next logical step. Only suspect the ECU or BCM after every external component has been verified.
Pro tip: If the cruise works when the wheel is in a certain position (for example, only when turned slightly left), that’s a classic sign of a failing clockspring or stressed wiring in the steering column, not a bad ECU.
Possible Fixes & Repair Costs
Most P0569 repairs are straightforward once the fault is properly located. Costs vary with vehicle make, parts pricing, and labor rates in your area.
- Replace cruise control switch assembly: Common fix. Parts typically $50–$200; labor 0.5–1.0 hour. Total around $120–$350 at most shops.
- Replace clockspring (spiral cable): More involved due to airbag removal. Parts $80–$300; labor 1.0–2.0 hours. Expect roughly $200–$500.
- Repair or replace wiring/connectors: Can range from a simple re-pin or solder repair at $50–$150 to more extensive harness work at $200+ depending on access.
- Brake switch replacement (if related): Usually inexpensive. Parts $20–$80; labor 0.3–0.8 hour. Total $80–$200.
- ECU/BCM replacement and programming: Rare. Parts can be $300–$1,000+ plus programming and labor, often totaling $500–$1,500.
Typical repair cost ranges for P0569 are about $120–$500 for the majority of cases. The main factors affecting cost are the exact failed component (switch vs. clockspring vs. wiring), how difficult it is to access, and whether dealer-level programming is needed.
Can I Still Drive With P0569?
In most cases, you can still drive with P0569 without immediate risk to the engine or transmission. The main impact is loss of cruise control or unreliable cruise operation, which is a comfort and convenience issue. However, if the problem is tied into the brake switch or other safety-related circuits, you could experience unexpected cruise disengagement or the system refusing to set when you need it. It’s wise to have the code diagnosed soon, especially before a long highway trip.
What Happens If You Ignore P0569?
If you ignore P0569, you’ll likely just live without reliable cruise control, but the underlying electrical fault could gradually worsen. Intermittent wiring or a failing clockspring can eventually affect other steering wheel functions like the horn, airbag circuits, or audio controls. Addressing the issue early can prevent more expensive repairs and avoid losing other important features.
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
- P0568 – Cruise Control Set Signal
- P0567 – Cruise Control Resume Signal
- P0566 – Cruise Control Off Signal
- P0565 – Cruise Control On Signal
- P0564 – Cruise Control Multi-Function Input “A” Circuit
Key Takeaways
- P0569 points to an electrical problem in the cruise control Coast/Set signal circuit.
- Most issues are caused by a bad steering wheel switch, failing clockspring, or wiring faults.
- Symptoms are mainly loss or inconsistency of cruise control, not engine performance problems.
- Diagnosis requires a scan tool, wiring diagram, and basic electrical testing with a multimeter.
- Typical repair costs run from about $120–$500, depending on which component has failed.
- It’s usually safe to drive, but fixing it prevents further electrical issues and restores cruise function.
Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0569
P0569 can appear on many modern vehicles that use steering wheel-mounted cruise control switches and clocksprings. It’s commonly seen on:
- Ford and Lincoln cars, SUVs, and trucks with column or wheel-mounted cruise switches.
- GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac) models, especially mid-2000s to mid-2010s vehicles.
- Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicles with multifunction steering wheel controls.
- Honda and Acura sedans and SUVs where steering wheel switches see heavy use.
- Toyota and Lexus models with stalk-type or wheel-mounted cruise controls.
- Hyundai and Kia vehicles using integrated steering wheel control modules.
The exact failure pattern varies by brand, but worn switches and clockspring issues are common across many makes once mileage and age add up.
FAQ
Can I clear P0569 myself and keep driving?
You can clear P0569 with a basic OBD-II scanner, and the light may stay off for a while if the problem is intermittent. However, if the underlying issue with the switch or wiring is still there, the code will usually return. Clearing it without diagnosis won’t fix the cruise control problem.
Is P0569 related to the throttle body or engine power?
No, P0569 is focused on the cruise control Coast/Set signal circuit, not the throttle body or engine power directly. Your engine should run normally. The code affects how the ECU receives the cruise command, not how it controls basic throttle in normal driving.
Can a bad brake light switch cause P0569?
On some vehicles, yes. The brake switch and cruise control logic are closely linked. If the brake switch is stuck or misadjusted, the ECU may think you’re always braking, which conflicts with cruise commands and can trigger related codes. It’s worth checking the brake switch if you have cruise and brake light issues together.
How do I know if the clockspring is the problem?
Common signs of a bad clockspring include intermittent cruise control, horn not working, airbag warning lights, or steering wheel buttons that only work when the wheel is turned a certain way. If multiple steering wheel functions act up and P0569 is stored, the clockspring is a strong suspect.
Do I need a dealer to fix P0569, or can an independent shop handle it?
Most independent shops with good electrical diagnostic skills can handle P0569 without a problem. They’ll have scan tools, wiring diagrams, and experience with steering column and switch repairs. You usually only need a dealer if a control module has to be replaced and programmed with factory software.