What Does It Mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for the powertrain and generally applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles with cruise control. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Peugeot, Ford, Nissan, Chevrolet, Hyundai, VW, Audi, Citroen, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
In the vehicle’s cruise control option, there are many functions. The operator can not only set a specific vehicle speed, which is then automatically maintained using many sensors, switches, modules, among many other components, but can also adjust the speed electronically (i.e., “set -” & “resume +”), temporarily change the speed while remembering the previous speed (e.g., for overtaking other vehicles, unexpected stopping/slowing down), among others.
Since most of the functions mentioned in the description of P0565 and related codes (P0566, P0567, P0568, P0569, P0570, etc.) are contained within a switch/component, it should be fairly straightforward to locate the input mechanisms (buttons, switches, controls, etc.) involved. That said, some common names for these components are: Multifunction Switch, Steering Wheel Controls, Cruise Control Switch, Cruise Control Module, Accessory Switch, etc.
What happened, in the case of this code, is that the ECM (Engine Control Module) detected a malfunction or malfunctions in the signal circuit. In other words, something went wrong in the circuit of the function mentioned in the description.
When the ECM detects a signal malfunction in one or more of the many cruise control functions, it illuminates the CEL (Check Engine Light) with P0565 and/or related codes. Most likely, the use of this function will be disabled and/or will behave abnormally.
The P0565 code is set when the ECM detects a signal malfunction in the “On/Off” circuit’s ON signal.
An Example of Cruise Control Buttons on a Steering Wheel:
How Severe Is This DTC?
The severity would be considered moderately low. Even if you lose all cruise control functionality, you can still operate the vehicle safely. Regarding potential additional damage if left unaddressed, this would be a rare case where you might be able to neglect it if, say, your vehicle is old and you can live without cruise control, or you cannot afford to repair the vehicle.
That being said, it is possible that neglecting ANY electrical issue for a long enough time could lead to further damage.
What Are Some of the Symptoms of the Code?
Symptoms of a P0565 trouble code may include:
The cruise control indicator light on the dashboard does not illuminate or is stuck on
Cruise control inoperative
Unable to set the cruise control to the desired speed or the speed is erratic
Certain functions within the cruise control system are non-operational (e.g., Resume, Set, +, -, Coast, Accelerate)
Controls do not work consistently
What Are Some of the Common Causes of the Code?
Causes of this P0565 code may include:
- Faulty and/or damaged cruise control switch or buttons inside the switch
- Connector(s) not making proper and effective electrical connection
- Wire(s) in the cruise control harness have been chafed and/or damaged, causing a short circuit, open resistance, etc.
- Cruise control switch assembly contaminated by liquid (coffee, soda, juice, etc.)
- ECM problem
- Faulty cruise control module
- BCM (Body Control Module) problem
- Overheated parts causing malfunction
What Are the Troubleshooting Steps for P0565?
Basic Step #1
The first thing I would do here is visually inspect the cruise control switch/module. Sometimes buttons are missing, soda has jammed a button in one position, buttons are loose and not making proper electrical connections. That said, ensure the buttons that control the cruise functions move freely and are not contaminated by potentially damaging particles and/or dirt. You will also want to note ALL malfunctions or anomalies with the cruise functions.
Basic Step #2
Does the cruise control indicator light illuminate in the instrument cluster when the cruise control is manually activated? If not, you may want to check if there is a fuse for the circuit. This information should be found in the make and model’s service manual. Replace any blown fuses with new, manufacturer-approved fuses.
Basic Step #3
To access the cruise control switch/module harness, generally, you will need to remove some dashboard components (e.g., steering column covers, airbag module in the steering wheel, etc.). To locate the specific wire involved in the fault, you will certainly need the appropriate wiring diagram for your vehicle. These vary significantly for many reasons. Always obtain the proper service information BEFORE performing anything too invasive.
Basic Step #4
It’s a good idea to ensure your ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is in good working order and that no ABS warning light is illuminated on the dashboard. The ABS uses many sensors, including speed sensors which, if malfunctioning, could trick the computers into thinking the vehicle is traveling faster or slower than the actual speed.