Description of the P0572 fault code.
OBD2 Error Codes

P0572 Cruise control/brake switch “A” - signal low

26.05.2022 /

P0572 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Trouble code P0572 indicates a problem with the cruise control system or brake pedal switch. The appearance of this error means that the vehicle's computer has detected too low voltage in the brake pedal switch circuit.

What does the fault code mean P0572?

Trouble code P0572 indicates that the voltage in the vehicle's brake pedal switch circuit is too low. This switch is typically used for several functions, including controlling the shift lock, turning on the brake lights when you press the pedal, and disabling cruise control while driving. If the vehicle's computer detects that the voltage in the brake pedal switch circuit is too low, it will disable the cruise control. In this case, a P0572 code will appear and the Check Engine light will most likely come on.

Fault code P0572.

Possible reasons

Some possible reasons for the P0572 trouble code:

  • Brake pedal switch is faulty: If the brake pedal switch is not working properly due to wear, damage, or corrosion, it may cause the circuit voltage to be too low and cause the P0572 code to appear.
  • Problems with wiring or connections: Wiring, connections or connectors associated with the brake pedal switch may be damaged, broken or oxidized, resulting in poor contact and reduced voltage in the circuit.
  • Problems with the control unit: Defects or malfunctions in the engine control module (PCM) or other components responsible for processing brake pedal switch signals can cause this code to appear.
  • Problems with the battery or charging system: Insufficient voltage in the vehicle's electrical system, caused by problems with the battery or charging system, can also cause low voltage in the brake pedal switch circuit.
  • Other electrical system problems: Interference in the vehicle's electrical system, a short circuit or other problems may also cause this code to appear.

It is important to perform additional diagnostics to accurately determine and correct the cause of the P0572 trouble code.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0572?

Here are some possible symptoms when trouble code P0572 appears:

  • Inactive cruise control: When cruise control is activated, it may not work or may turn off automatically after a while.
  • Inactive brake lights: The brake pedal switch also activates the brake lights when the pedal is pressed. If the switch is faulty, the brake lights may not work or may not function properly.
  • Problems with gear shift lock: Some vehicles use a brake pedal switch to lock the gear shift from the “P” (Park) position. If the switch is faulty, this locking mechanism may not work.
  • The Check Engine light comes on: Code P0572 will cause the Check Engine light on the instrument panel to illuminate to warn of a problem in the system.
  • Problems with automatic gear shifting: Some vehicles may experience problems with automatic gear shifting due to a faulty brake pedal switch.

It is important to note that symptoms may vary depending on the specific vehicle model and its electrical system. If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is recommended that you immediately contact a qualified auto mechanic to diagnose and repair the problem.

How to diagnose a fault code P0572?

To diagnose DTC P0572, you can follow these steps:

  1. Checking the error code: Use a diagnostic scanner to read the error code from the engine control module (PCM) and determine if it is P0572.
  2. Visual inspection of the brake pedal switch: Check the brake pedal switch for visible damage, corrosion, or lack of proper contact.
  3. Checking connections and wiring: Check the wiring and connections associated with the brake pedal switch for damage, corrosion, or breaks. Pay special attention to the connections near the brake pedal and engine control unit.
  4. Testing the Voltage at the Brake Pedal Switch: Using a multimeter, measure the voltage at the brake pedal switch while pressing and releasing the pedal. The voltage should vary according to pedal input.
  5. Engine Control Module (PCM) Diagnosis: If all previous steps fail to identify the problem, you may need to diagnose the engine control module (PCM) to check its functionality and communication with the brake pedal switch.
  6. Checking other components: Sometimes the symptoms associated with a P0572 code can be caused by other problems, such as problems with the battery or electrical system. Check the condition of the battery and other electrical system components.

If you do not have experience in performing such diagnostics, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center to conduct a detailed diagnosis and resolve the problem.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0572, the following errors may occur:

  • Skipping Basic Steps: Some technicians may skip basic diagnostic steps, such as visually inspecting the brake pedal switch or checking the wiring. This can lead to obvious problems being missed.
  • Faulty measurements: Incorrectly measuring the voltage at the brake pedal switch or misinterpreting the multimeter readings may lead to incorrect conclusions about the switch's status.
  • Insufficient attention to surrounding components: Sometimes the problem may not only be with the brake pedal switch, but also with other components of the electrical system. Failure to pay attention to this may lead to incorrect diagnosis.
  • Problems in other systems: Symptoms associated with a P0572 code may not only be caused by problems with the brake pedal switch, but also with other components such as the engine control module (PCM), battery, or electrical system. Skipping diagnostics on these components may lead to incorrect conclusions.
  • Incorrect component replacements: If a problem is discovered, many technicians can immediately begin replacing components without conducting additional diagnostics. This may result in unnecessary repair costs.

To avoid these errors, it is important to follow a systematic approach to diagnosis, including checking all components, taking all necessary measurements, and carefully analyzing the data obtained.

How serious is the fault code? P0572?

Trouble code P0572 is relatively serious because it indicates a problem with the vehicle's brake pedal switch. This switch plays an important role in the operation of several vehicle systems, such as cruise control, brake lights and shift lock. When this code appears, the following problems may occur:

  • Inactive cruise control: If the brake pedal switch is faulty, the cruise control may stop working or turn off automatically.
  • Non-working brake lights: The brake pedal switch activates the brake lights when the pedal is pressed. If it does not function properly, the brake lights may not work or function incorrectly.
  • Problems with gear shift lock: On some vehicles, the brake pedal switch is used to lock the gear shift from the “P” (Park) position. If the switch is faulty, the locking mechanism may not work.
  • Potential security risk: A faulty brake pedal switch can result in inoperative brake lights, which increases the risk of accidents and poses a hazard to the driver and others.

While the P0572 code itself is not a safety critical code, it should be taken seriously and addressed as soon as possible to prevent potential problems down the road.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0572?

Troubleshooting trouble code P0572 may include the following steps:

  1. Replacing the brake pedal switch: If the brake pedal switch is found to be truly faulty, it must be replaced with a new one. This is usually the most effective way to fix the problem.
  2. Checking and replacing damaged wiring: If the problem is due to damaged wiring or unstable contacts, you need to check the connections and wires associated with the brake pedal switch and replace them if necessary.
  3. Engine Control Module (PCM) Diagnosis: In rare cases, the problem may be related to the engine control module (PCM). If other steps do not resolve the problem, the PCM must be diagnosed and replaced if necessary.
  4. Checking and replacing the battery: Sometimes low voltage in the brake pedal switch circuit can be caused by battery problems. Check the condition of the battery and replace it if it is worn or damaged.
  5. Programming and reprogramming: In some cases, after replacing components or the control unit, programming or reprogramming may be required for the new components to operate correctly.

Remember, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center to determine the exact cause and resolve the P0572 code. He will be able to conduct additional diagnostics and perform the necessary repair work according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

What is P0572 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

P0572 – Brand-specific information

Trouble code P0572 refers to the brake pedal switch signal and can apply to various makes and models of vehicles, some of them are:

Each manufacturer may have its own specific interpretation of this code. Therefore, when diagnosing and repairing, you should refer to the specific documentation and repair manuals for your specific vehicle make and model.

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