P0573: Cruise control or brake switch A circuit reading high
Cruise control/brake switch A circuit high
Severity: Severity not verified — if the car runs badly, have it inspected
The sources define the code but do not rate how urgent it is. Cruise control can drop out, and the brake switch also feeds other functions, so have it checked rather than assume it is minor.
It gets more serious if:
- Inspect soon: Get it inspected soon if the brake lights stay on or do not come on when you press the pedal.
P0573 in short
P0573 means the computer sees too high a voltage in the cruise control or brake switch A circuit. TroubleCodes.net lists a wiring short to positive, the switch, or the control module as probable causes. In a Chevrolet Avalanche complaint the cruise control cut out. Have the brake switch and its brake lights checked.
The brake switch tells the computer when the pedal is pressed, and cruise control uses that signal to cancel. The computer expects the circuit voltage to stay within a set range.
P0573 is set when that circuit reads higher than expected. Delaware lists the code as cruise control/brake switch A circuit high, and TroubleCodes.net gives a wire shorted to positive, the switch itself or the module as probable causes.
In a 2007 Avalanche complaint the code came with cruise control that was unreliable or disengaged by itself.
Most likely causes
These are general causes for this code across vehicles. None is specific to one make or model.
Cause 1: Cruise or brake switch fault
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- The switch is named by TroubleCodes.net and is the part producing the signal. A worn or misadjusted switch is the simplest item to check first.
- What would change this
- Rises if the switch signal does not change cleanly as the pedal moves. Falls if the signal is clean.
Cause 2: Wiring short to positive voltage
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- A high-circuit code means the voltage is above normal, and TroubleCodes.net lists a short to positive as the cause of this definition.
- What would change this
- Rises if the harness is chafed or the connector is damaged. Falls if the harness tests clean.
Cause 3: Engine control module
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- The module is listed as a probable cause but is rare next to the switch and wiring.
- What would change this
- Rises only after the switch and wiring are cleared.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Press the brake pedal and check that the brake lights come on and go off normally, and whether cruise control can be set.
IfBrake lights stay on, never come on, or work intermittently
It meansThe brake switch or its adjustment is suspect.
IfBrake lights work normally
It meansMove on to testing the circuit.
Step 2: Have the switch signal and the wiring checked with a scan tool and a meter.
Warning:The switch sits near the brake pedal under the dash, close to airbag wiring and pedal linkage. Do not unplug it with the key on; let a shop test it.
IfSwitch signal is wrong or does not change with the pedal
It meansReplace or adjust the switch.
IfHarness shows a short to positive or damage
It meansRepair the wiring.
IfSwitch and wiring are good
It meansControl module is the remaining suspect.
Symptoms
- Cruise control will not set or cuts out
- Check engine light
- Brake lights stay on or do not work Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.
How to fix
Step 1: Press the brake pedal while someone checks the brake lights from behind, and note whether they behave normally.
Parts and cost context
- Engine control module (ECM / PCM):Last resort after the switch and wiring. Labour varies; get a quote.
Labor varies by vehicle and shop; get a quote before you approve a repair.
Compare used part prices on PartPriceGuideOn your vehicle
ChevroletYour car
2007 · Avalanche
Supported by vehicle dataOne 2007 Avalanche 1500 complaint reports P0573 with unreliable cruise control. A single complaint, not a documented pattern.
Related codes
P0573 questions
Will P0573 stop the car from running?
The sources describe cruise control problems, not stalling. Check the brake lights, since the same switch is involved.
Sources and review
- P0573 trouble code definition
- ODI 10588741: 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500, P0573
- On-Board Diagnostic Trouble Codes (generic code title list)
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
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