What Does It Mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and generally applies to OBD-II vehicles. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Mazda, Alfa Romeo, Ford, Land Rover, Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, Chevy, Nissan, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
Cruise control was developed for our comfort. Its sole purpose is to manually maintain the vehicle speed set by the operator (via steering wheel buttons, the multifunction switch (i.e., turn signals, cruise control, wipers, etc.) mounted on the steering column, etc.)
Meanwhile, the operator no longer needs to control the accelerator pedal, and if the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission (A/T), it can also control and adjust shift points based on real-time driving condition requirements.
Generally speaking here, this code would lead me to believe we are talking about the multifunction switch on your steering column. That said, location possibilities vary significantly from one manufacturer to another, so research accordingly. The cruise control button would be a good place to start narrowing down locations. This code refers to a specific input circuit in the cruise control system. To determine which wire/circuit to focus on, refer to the service manual; the letters in the codes can and will be your best reference regarding identifying the wire/circuit you are trying to diagnose/test.
In case of a fault in the cruise control multifunction “A” input circuit, the Engine Control Module (ECM) proactively illuminates the instrument cluster with P0564 and related codes (P0564, P0578, P0579, P0580, and P0581).
Regarding the letter “A,” it could be to distinguish a connector, wire, circuit group, etc. That said, manufacturer specifications are the best resource you can have for this.
The P0589 code will be triggered by the ECM when a general fault is detected by the ECM in the cruise control multifunction switch “A” input circuit(s).
A Cruise Control Stalk:
How Severe Is This DTC?
Low severity for almost all cruise control faults, that said, there are many exceptions. For the most part, however, this fault should not be a source of serious concern. That said, when it comes to electrical issues, they generally worsen over time. Most of the time, this fault will be moderately affordable to fix.
Obviously, this is very subjective, so be sure to shop around for the best prices and get multiple quotes/diagnostic strategies; who knows, work orders alone might help you determine what you’re dealing with. Always stay on top of general vehicle maintenance.
What Are Some of the Symptoms of the Code?
Symptoms of a P0564 Fault Code May Include:
Abnormal vehicle speeds with cruise control activated
Inoperative cruise control
Cruise control indicator light on regardless of switch position
Unable to set cruise control to desired speed
What Are Some Common Causes of the Code?
Causes
of This P0564 Code May Include:
Faulty multifunction/cruise control switch (i.e., stuck, broken, missing, etc.)
Wiring issue (e.g., rubbing on steering column/dashboard parts, water intrusion, corrosion, etc.)
Connector malfunction (e.g., corroded pins, broken plastic tabs, swollen connector body, etc.)
Liquids/dirt/grime in the cruise control button/switch causing abnormal mechanical operation
ECM problem (e.g., water intrusion into the computer body, internal short circuit, internal overheating, etc.)
What Are the Troubleshooting Steps for P0564?
Basic Step #1
Once your vehicle’s multifunction/cruise control switch is located, visually inspect it for any type of contamination. It is very easy for plastic buttons/switches to become dirty/greasy/sticky, making them faulty and/or operating abnormally. Ensure the mechanical operation of the switch is smooth and fluid. Any issues here should be addressed immediately. If your specific scan tool/OBD reader has the capabilities, feel free to observe the electronic operation of the switch via DATA STREAM (the mode name varies here between readers, but the important thing is to find a mode to observe real-time data).
TIP: Be careful not to spray cleaning solutions directly onto the button. Lightly dampen a clean cloth with water, soap and water, dashboard cleaner, etc., and carefully remove debris from the switch crevices. A compressed air gun will help remove debris without making the situation worse.
Basic Step #2
To access the connectors and harnesses involved in the cruise control/multifunction switch input circuit, you may need to remove some dashboard plastics/covers. Be gentle when working with plastic. Comfortable ambient temperatures always contribute to the ease of disassembling/assembling dashboard/interior plastics.
If you can easily access the connector, you may be able to apply specific troubleshooting steps provided by your service manual. Testing switches will most likely involve recording electrical values using your multimeter. This may include using the switch during recording and/or static tests. Refer to the specific make and model service manual for a “diagnostic flowchart.”
Basic Step #3
A problem within the ECM is, most of the time, the last resort in diagnosis. Since this might be one of the most expensive electronic repairs you could perform on your vehicle, leave this to the professionals.