P0575 is an OBD-II trouble code that points to a problem in your vehicle’s cruise control input circuit. In simple terms, the car’s computer isn’t happy with the electrical signal coming from the cruise control switch or related wiring. While this code usually doesn’t stop you from driving, it can disable cruise control and sometimes hint at deeper electrical or steering wheel control issues. Understanding what P0575 means, how it behaves, and how to diagnose it will help you decide whether you can fix it yourself or need a professional.
What Does P0575 Mean?
P0575 stands for “Cruise Control Input Circuit.” Your engine control module (ECM/ECU) or powertrain control module (PCM) monitors the cruise control switch signals (ON/OFF, SET, RESUME, CANCEL, etc.). When the voltage or logic from that circuit is outside the expected range, it sets P0575 and usually disables cruise control as a safety measure.
This code is almost always electrical: bad switch, damaged clockspring in the steering wheel, wiring issues, or sometimes a problem inside the PCM. It doesn’t mean your engine is failing, but it does mean the computer can’t trust the cruise control inputs.
Quick Reference
- Code: P0575 – Cruise Control Input Circuit
- Severity: Low to moderate (comfort/safety feature issue)
- Primary systems: Cruise control switch, steering wheel controls, wiring, PCM
- Typical symptoms: Cruise control inoperative, warning lights, stored code
- Common fixes: Replace cruise switch, repair wiring, replace clockspring, reprogram/replace PCM (rare)
Real-World Example / Field Notes
In the shop, I see P0575 most often on vehicles where the cruise control buttons are on the steering wheel. A common scenario: customer complains that cruise works “sometimes,” or it won’t set at all, and the airbag or traction light may also be on. Scan shows P0575 and sometimes a steering angle or airbag clock circuit code. Testing reveals a worn clockspring inside the steering column that’s lost a few circuits, including the cruise wires. Replacing the clockspring and clearing the codes brings the cruise control right back.
Symptoms of P0575
- Cruise control inoperative – Cruise will not turn on, will not set, or drops out unexpectedly.
- Intermittent cruise function – Works on some drives but not others, or only certain buttons respond.
- Warning lights – In some vehicles, you may see a cruise indicator flashing, or ABS/traction/ESC lights if circuits share components.
- No cruise indicator – The cruise “ON” or “SET” light never comes on in the cluster.
- Other steering wheel button issues – Radio or phone buttons on the wheel may act up if the clockspring is failing.
- Stored fault codes – P0575 may appear along with other body or chassis communication codes.
- Occasional stalling or surging (rare) – Only if there is a broader electrical or PCM power/ground problem.
Common Causes of P0575
Most Common Causes
- Faulty cruise control switch or steering wheel button assembly
- Worn or open clockspring (spiral cable) in the steering column
- Damaged wiring or poor connection in the cruise control circuit (especially at the steering wheel or column)
- Corroded or loose connector at the switch, clockspring, or PCM
- Liquid spills or contamination on steering wheel controls (coffee, soda, cleaners)
Less Common Causes
- Brake pedal switch malfunction sending incorrect “brake applied” signal
- Clutch pedal switch issue on manual transmission vehicles
- Blown fuse or incorrect fuse replacement affecting the cruise circuit
- Aftermarket accessories tapped into steering wheel or column wiring (remote start, alarms, audio controls)
- Internal PCM/ECM failure or software glitch requiring reprogramming or replacement
Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide
To diagnose P0575 properly, you’ll want at least a basic scan tool that can read live data, a digital multimeter, and ideally a wiring diagram for your specific vehicle. A factory-level scan tool with Mode $06 and body control access makes the job easier, but you can still do a lot with mid-level tools and careful testing.
- Confirm the code and check for companions. Connect a scan tool, read all stored and pending codes. Note any related codes for brake switch, steering angle sensor, airbag, or CAN communication. Clear codes and see which ones return after a short drive or key cycle.
- Verify cruise operation. Safely test cruise control on a road where you can maintain steady speed. See if the system turns on, if the “SET” function works, and whether it cancels correctly with the brake or cancel button. Note exactly which buttons fail.
- Inspect steering wheel controls and column. Check for sticky or physically damaged buttons, signs of spills, or aftermarket add-ons. Gently wiggle the steering wheel (while parked) and press buttons to see if operation changes when the wheel is turned—this often points to a failing clockspring.
- Check brake and clutch switches. Watch live data on the scan tool for brake switch and clutch switch (if equipped). Make sure the PCM sees “ON/OFF” cleanly when you press and release the pedals. A stuck “brake applied” signal will disable cruise and can trigger P0575 on some models.
- Test cruise switch signals (resistance or voltage). Many cruise switches use a resistor ladder. With a wiring diagram, back-probe the cruise switch signal wire and measure resistance or voltage for each button position. Compare readings to the service manual. Out-of-spec readings indicate a bad switch or wiring issue.
- Inspect and test the clockspring. If other steering wheel functions are flaky (horn, radio controls, airbag light), suspect the clockspring. With the battery disconnected and airbag safety procedures followed, check continuity of the cruise circuits through the clockspring. An open circuit when the wheel turns usually confirms failure.
- Check wiring continuity and grounds. Visually inspect harnesses from the steering column to the dash and PCM for rub-through, pinched wires, or previous repairs. Use a multimeter to check continuity and look for high resistance or shorts to ground or power.
- Review Mode $06 and data streams (if available). Some vehicles log cruise switch rationality in Mode $06. Look for failed test results related to cruise or switch inputs. This can help pinpoint intermittent faults.
- Evaluate PCM only after other causes are ruled out. If switch, wiring, clockspring, and pedal switches all test good, and power/grounds are clean, a PCM software update or PCM replacement may be required. This is rare and should be confirmed with factory-level diagnostics.
Pro tip: When diagnosing intermittent P0575 issues, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock while watching live data for cruise switch inputs. If the readings drop out or flicker as you turn the wheel, you almost certainly have a failing clockspring or a wiring issue in the column.
Possible Fixes & Repair Costs
Repairs for P0575 typically focus on restoring proper cruise control input signals. Costs vary by vehicle, part quality, and labor rates, but here are common fixes and typical ranges:
- Replace cruise control switch / steering wheel button assembly: $100–$350 parts and labor.
- Replace clockspring (spiral cable): $250–$600 depending on airbag integration and vehicle design.
- Repair or rewire damaged harness/connectors: $100–$400, depending on how deep in the dash or column the damage is.
- Replace brake or clutch pedal switch: $75–$200.
- PCM reflash or replacement (rare): Reflash $120–$250; PCM replacement $500–$1,200+ including programming.
Labor rates, dealer vs. independent shop, OEM vs. aftermarket parts, and how much diagnostic time is needed all affect the final bill. Simple switch replacements are usually on the lower end, while clockspring or PCM-related repairs land toward the higher side.
Can I Still Drive With P0575?
In most cases, you can continue driving with P0575 without immediate danger to the engine or transmission. The main impact is that your cruise control may not work or may be disabled entirely. However, if P0575 is accompanied by airbag, ABS, or steering-related warning lights, you should treat it more seriously. A failing clockspring, for example, can affect the airbag circuit. If multiple systems are acting up, have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible for safety.
What Happens If You Ignore P0575?
If you ignore P0575, you’ll likely just live without cruise control, but you may also miss an early warning of wiring or clockspring problems that can later affect the airbag, horn, or steering wheel controls. Over time, a small electrical fault can spread—wires can overheat, connectors can corrode more, and you may end up with more expensive repairs or safety system failures down the road.
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
- P0567 – Cruise Control Resume Signal
- P0566 – Cruise Control Off Signal
- P0565 – Cruise Control On Signal
Key Takeaways
- P0575 means the PCM detected an abnormal signal in the cruise control input circuit.
- The most common culprits are a bad cruise switch, failed clockspring, or wiring issues in the steering column.
- The code usually won’t leave you stranded, but it will disable or disrupt cruise control.
- Proper diagnosis involves scan data, basic electrical testing, and sometimes clockspring continuity checks.
- Typical repairs range from about $100 for a simple switch to $600+ for clockspring or PCM-related work.
Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0575
P0575 can appear on almost any OBD-II vehicle, but it’s particularly common on models with steering wheel-mounted cruise controls and integrated clocksprings. You’ll often see it on:
- Ford / Lincoln: F-150, Escape, Fusion, Explorer with wheel-mounted cruise buttons.
- GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac): Silverado/Sierra, Malibu, Equinox, Tahoe/Suburban.
- Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep / Ram: Grand Cherokee, Ram trucks, Charger, Caravan.
- Toyota / Lexus: Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Tacoma, and SUVs with stalk or wheel cruise controls.
- Honda / Acura: Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot with multi-function steering wheels.
- Hyundai / Kia: Sonata, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sportage.
Age, high mileage, and frequent steering wheel movement (city driving, tight parking) all increase the chances of clockspring and switch wear, making P0575 more likely as vehicles get older.
FAQ
Can I clear P0575 and keep driving without fixing it?
You can clear P0575 with a scan tool, and the code may stay away for a while if the problem is intermittent. However, if the underlying issue remains, the code will usually return and cruise control will continue to act up. Clearing the code doesn’t repair the fault; it only resets the warning.
Is P0575 dangerous for my engine or transmission?
P0575 by itself is not typically dangerous for the engine or transmission. It mainly affects cruise control operation. The bigger concern is when it’s tied to a failing clockspring or wiring that also handles airbag or steering wheel functions. In that case, it becomes a safety issue and should be addressed promptly.
How do I know if the clockspring is causing P0575?
Common signs of a bad clockspring include cruise control not working, horn issues, airbag light on, or other steering wheel buttons failing—especially when turning the wheel. If live data shows cruise switch signals dropping out as you rotate the steering wheel, that’s a strong indicator the clockspring is at fault.
Can a bad brake light switch trigger P0575?
Yes, on many vehicles a faulty brake light switch can indirectly set P0575. If the PCM sees an inconsistent or always-on brake signal, it may consider the cruise input logic invalid and store this code. That’s why checking the brake switch and verifying brake lights is an important part of diagnosis.
Do I need a dealer to fix P0575, or can an independent shop handle it?
Most independent shops with good electrical diagnostic skills can handle P0575. Replacing a cruise switch, clockspring, or brake switch is routine work. In rare cases where PCM reprogramming or replacement is needed, a dealer or a shop with factory-level programming tools may be required, but that’s the exception, not the rule.