P0589 is an OBD-II trouble code related to your cruise control system, not the engine or transmission itself. It usually means the powertrain control module (PCM/ECU) is seeing an electrical fault in the cruise control switch circuit. While this code rarely leaves you stranded, it can disable cruise control and point to wiring or switch issues that may worsen over time. Understanding what P0589 means, how it behaves, and how to diagnose it will help you decide whether you can handle it yourself or need a shop.
What Does P0589 Mean?
P0589 stands for “Cruise Control Multi-Function Input ‘B’ Circuit.” In plain language, your ECU has detected an abnormal voltage or signal in one of the cruise control switch circuits, typically the “B” input line from the steering wheel or column switch assembly.
This code is electrical in nature. It doesn’t mean the engine is mechanically damaged, but it does mean the ECU doesn’t trust the signal coming from the cruise control switch. As a safety precaution, the system often disables cruise control until the fault is fixed.
Quick Reference
- Code: P0589
- Definition: Cruise Control Multi-Function Input “B” Circuit
- Main system affected: Cruise control / steering wheel switch circuit
- Severity: Low for drivability, moderate for safety and convenience
- Typical fix: Repair wiring, replace cruise switch, or clockspring
Real-World Example / Field Notes
In the shop, I often see P0589 on vehicles where the cruise control buttons have become intermittent or the steering wheel has been removed in the past for airbag or column work. One common pattern: the customer complains that cruise sometimes works, sometimes doesn’t, and then the check engine light appears with P0589 stored. A quick inspection often reveals a worn clockspring, damaged connector at the steering wheel switch, or a rubbed-through wire in the column. Fixing that wiring or replacing the switch usually restores cruise control immediately.
Symptoms of P0589
- Inoperative cruise control – Cruise won’t set or engage at all.
- Intermittent cruise function – Cruise works on some drives, then suddenly drops out.
- Check engine light – MIL or service engine soon lamp illuminated or stored code.
- Cruise indicator issues – Cruise light may flash, not illuminate, or turn off unexpectedly.
- Unresponsive steering wheel buttons – On/Off, Set, Resume, or Cancel buttons may not respond.
- Other steering wheel control glitches – Sometimes audio or phone buttons act odd if the clockspring is failing.
- Possible brake light interaction – In some cases, a related brake switch issue can affect cruise behavior.
Common Causes of P0589
Most Common Causes
- Faulty cruise control switch – Worn or contaminated contacts in the steering wheel or stalk switch cause incorrect voltage signals.
- Damaged clockspring (spiral cable) – The flexible ribbon that carries wiring through the steering wheel can crack or break, interrupting the “B” circuit.
- Open or shorted wiring – Chafed, pinched, or corroded wires between the switch and ECU cause low, high, or fluctuating voltage.
- Loose or corroded connectors – Poor contact at the steering wheel, column, or under-dash connectors disrupts the input signal.
- Aftermarket accessories – Poorly installed remote starters, alarms, or audio systems can tap into the wrong wires and disturb the circuit.
Less Common Causes
- Faulty brake pedal switch – On some vehicles, a bad brake switch can confuse the cruise logic and set related codes.
- Internal ECU fault – Rare, but a failing powertrain control module can misread the circuit.
- Water intrusion – Moisture in the steering column or under-dash area can corrode terminals and alter resistance.
- Incorrect steering wheel swap – Installing a wheel without the proper cruise controls or wiring can trigger P0589.
- Previous airbag or column repair – Misrouted or pinched wiring during prior work can eventually fail.
Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide
Basic tools you’ll want: an OBD-II scan tool (ideally with live data and Mode $06), a digital multimeter, a wiring diagram for your specific vehicle, and simple hand tools to access the steering column and connectors. A service manual or reliable repair database is very helpful for pinouts and specifications.
- Confirm the code and note freeze-frame data. Scan for codes and record when P0589 set (speed, RPM, switch position). Clear the code and see if it returns immediately or only when using cruise.
- Check cruise control operation. With the engine running, try turning cruise On/Off and pressing Set/Resume. Note which buttons respond and whether the dash indicator behaves normally.
- Inspect steering wheel and column. Look for signs of previous work: non-OEM screws, broken trim, or aftermarket wiring. Gently wiggle the column harness while operating cruise to see if the fault becomes intermittent.
- Test the cruise switch resistance/voltage. Using the wiring diagram, back-probe the cruise switch “B” circuit. Most systems use different resistances or voltages for each button. Compare your readings to specs while pressing each button.
- Check the clockspring. If other steering wheel functions (horn, audio controls, airbag light) are acting up, suspect the clockspring. With the battery disconnected and airbag removed (follow safety procedures), inspect the clockspring and connectors for damage or looseness.
- Inspect wiring and connectors. Follow the “B” circuit from the steering wheel to the ECU. Look for rubbed insulation, sharp bends, corrosion, or loose pins at connectors under the column and dash.
- Use live data if available. On some scan tools you can monitor cruise switch inputs. Watch the data while pressing each button; if the ECU never sees the “B” input change, you’ve narrowed the fault to the switch/clockspring/wiring.
- Check related components. Verify brake lights and brake switch operation, since an always-ON brake signal can prevent cruise from engaging and confuse diagnostics.
- Perform continuity and short checks. With the circuit disconnected, use a multimeter to confirm continuity from the switch to the ECU pin, and check for shorts to power or ground.
- Recheck after each repair. After repairing wiring or replacing parts, clear codes and road test. Confirm cruise operates normally and that P0589 does not return.
Pro tip: Before condemning the ECU, temporarily jumper the “B” circuit at the ECU connector with a known-good resistor value (per the wiring diagram) and see if the ECU responds. If it does, the fault is still upstream in the switch, clockspring, or wiring.
Possible Fixes & Repair Costs
Most P0589 repairs involve restoring a clean, correct signal from the cruise control switch to the ECU. Parts are usually not expensive, but labor can vary depending on steering wheel and airbag removal.
- Replace cruise control switch: $75–$250 parts and labor, depending on whether it’s integrated into the steering wheel or stalk.
- Replace clockspring: $200–$500 installed, due to airbag handling and steering wheel removal.
- Repair wiring/connectors: $100–$300, depending on access and how many wires or plugs are damaged.
- Brake switch replacement (if related): $75–$175 in most cases.
- ECU replacement/programming (rare): $500–$1,200+ if a confirmed internal fault exists.
Typical repair cost for P0589 falls in the $150–$400 range at an independent shop. Costs depend on your vehicle make, how much interior trim must be removed, parts availability, and whether additional steering wheel functions or airbag components are involved.
Can I Still Drive With P0589?
Yes, you can usually keep driving with P0589 without immediate risk of engine damage. The main downside is that cruise control may not work or may be unreliable. On some vehicles, the system will completely disable cruise as a safety precaution. If the underlying issue is wiring-related, it’s smart to address it sooner rather than later, because deteriorating wiring can eventually affect other circuits in the steering column.
What Happens If You Ignore P0589?
If you ignore P0589, you’ll likely lose cruise control permanently and may see additional electrical problems in the steering wheel area over time. A failing clockspring can eventually affect the airbag circuit or other steering wheel controls, turning a simple convenience issue into a safety and costlier repair problem.
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
- P0589 is a cruise control switch circuit fault, not a major engine failure.
- The most common culprits are the cruise switch, clockspring, or wiring/connectors.
- You can usually drive with this code, but cruise control may be disabled.
- Ignoring it can lead to more steering wheel electrical issues over time.
- Typical repairs run from about $150 to $400 at most independent shops.
Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0589
P0589 shows up across many makes that use steering wheel-mounted cruise controls and multiplexed switch circuits. In the field, it’s commonly seen on:
- GM vehicles: Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac trucks and SUVs with column or wheel-mounted cruise switches.
- Ford and Lincoln: F-150, Explorer, Escape, and related models with integrated steering wheel controls.
- Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM: Especially models where the clockspring is a known wear item.
- Hyundai and Kia: Late-model cars and crossovers with multi-function steering wheels.
- Volkswagen and Audi: Vehicles with stalk-based or wheel-based cruise switches.
Because the code definition is generic OBD-II, you can see P0589 on many other brands as well, but the exact wiring layout and test procedure will vary by manufacturer and model year.
FAQ
Is P0589 a serious problem?
P0589 is generally not serious in terms of engine or transmission damage. It mainly affects cruise control operation. However, if the root cause is a failing clockspring or damaged wiring, it can eventually affect other systems like the airbag or steering wheel controls, so you shouldn’t ignore it indefinitely.
Can I fix P0589 myself at home?
If you’re comfortable with basic electrical testing and removing steering column trim, you may be able to fix P0589 yourself, especially if it’s just a bad cruise switch or an obvious wiring issue. Anything involving the airbag or clockspring requires extra care and proper procedures. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to let a professional handle it.
Does P0589 always mean the cruise switch is bad?
No. The switch is a common failure point, but P0589 can also be caused by a damaged clockspring, corroded connectors, or wiring faults. That’s why testing the circuit with a multimeter and, if possible, scan tool data is important before replacing parts.
Can a dead battery or jump-start cause P0589?
<pA weak battery or jump-start usually doesn’t directly cause P0589, but voltage spikes or previous wiring repairs done during battery replacement can expose an existing problem. If the code appeared right after battery work, double-check the area for disturbed connectors or pinched wires.
Is it safe to clear P0589 and keep driving?
Yes, you can clear the code and continue driving while monitoring how the cruise control behaves. If the code returns quickly or cruise stops working altogether, plan for a proper diagnosis. Clearing the code doesn’t fix the underlying issue; it just resets the ECU’s memory until the fault is detected again.