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 speed for the vehicle, which can be automatically maintained using many sensors, switches, modules, among many other components, but you can also change the speed electronically (i.e., “set -” & “resume +”), temporarily change the speed while remembering the previous speed (e.g., overtaking vehicles, unexpected stopping/slowing down), among others.
Since most of the functions mentioned in the description of P0570 and related codes (P0565, P0566, P0567, P0568, P0569, 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 one or more 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 P0570 and/or related codes. Most likely, the use of this function will be disabled and/or will behave abnormally.
The P0570 code is set when the ECM detects a signal malfunction in the ACCEL (acceleration) signal of the system.
An example of cruise control buttons on a steering wheel:
P0570 Cruise Control Buttons on the 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 safely. Regarding additional damage if not monitored, 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 said, it is possible that neglecting ANY electrical issue long enough could lead to additional damage.
What Are Some of the Symptoms of the Code?
Symptoms of a P0570 fault code may include:
Cruise control indicator on the dashboard does not illuminate or is stuck
Cruise control inoperative
Unable to set cruise control to the desired speed or speed is erratic
Certain functions in the cruise control system non-operational (e.g., Resume, Set, +, -, Coast, Accelerate)
Controls do not work consistently
What Are Some Common Causes of the Code?
Causes
of this P0570 code may include:
Cruise control switch or buttons inside the switch, faulty and/or damaged
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 circuit, 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 P0570?
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 the 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 record ALL malfunctions or anomalies of the cruise functions.
Basic Step #2
Does the cruise control indicator light up in the instrument cluster when 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 brand 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, typically, you will need to remove some dashboard parts (e.g., steering column cover, airbag module in the steering wheel, etc.). To locate the specific wire involved in the fault, you will certainly need an 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 light is illuminated on the dashboard. ABS uses many sensors, including wheel speed sensors, which, if malfunctioning, could trick the computers into thinking the vehicle is moving faster or slower than the actual speed.