What Does P0572 Mean?
The ECM has detected that the cruise control brake switch 'A' circuit is stuck in the low (closed/active) state, indicating the brake pedal appears to be pressed at all times. This prevents cruise control from engaging because the ECM sees a constant brake-applied condition. The brake switch may be physically stuck, misadjusted, or have a wiring short to ground.
Common Causes
40%
Brake light switch stuck in the closed position due to a broken or missing brake pedal bumper pad that normally holds the switch plunger out
25%
Misadjusted brake light switch positioned too far from the brake pedal arm, keeping it permanently engaged
20%
Cruise control brake signal wire shorted to ground, providing a constant low signal to the ECM
15%
Failed brake light switch with welded-together internal contacts that cannot open when the pedal is released
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Check if the brake lights are constantly illuminated with the pedal released. This is a telltale sign of a stuck brake switch. Look at the top of the brake pedal arm for a missing or disintegrated foam/rubber bumper pad.
2
Step 2: If the bumper pad is missing, install a replacement pad (often a small nylon or rubber stopper). This is the most common cause of P0572 and the least expensive fix.
3
Step 3: If the bumper pad is intact, check brake switch adjustment. The switch plunger should fully extend (open the switch) when the brake pedal is in the resting position. Adjust the switch position per manufacturer procedure.
4
Step 4: Disconnect the brake switch and check if the ECM brake input changes state. If it remains low with the switch disconnected, the wire is shorted to ground. Trace and repair the harness.
5
Step 5: If disconnecting the switch causes the ECM input to go high, the switch is stuck closed internally. Replace the brake light switch and verify proper adjustment after installation.
Estimated Repair Cost
$5 - $100
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has detected that the cruise control brake switch 'A' circuit is stuck in the low (closed/active) state, indicating the brake pedal appears to be pressed at all times. This prevents cruise control from engaging because the ECM sees a constant brake-applied condition. The brake switch may be ...
The most common cause of P0572 (Cruise Control/Brake Switch A Circuit Malfunction) is: Brake light switch stuck in the closed position due to a broken or missing brake pedal bumper pad that normally holds the switch plunger out
Typical repair costs for P0572 range from $5 to $100, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Cruise control will not engage due to the constant brake-applied signal. Additionally, brake lights may be constantly illuminated, which confuses following drivers and can lead to rear-end collisions when actual braking is not distinguished from the false signal.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0572 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Cruise Control / Brake System Interface
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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