P0566 Cruise Control Off Signal Malfunction
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Cruise Control Off Signal Malfunction
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and typically applies to OBD-II vehicles equipped with cruise control. That 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 year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
Within the vehicle option cruise control, there are many functions. Not only can the operator set a specific vehicle speed, and it be maintained automatically using numerous sensors, switches, modules, among many other components, but you can also modify the speed electronically (i.e. "set - " & "resume +"), temporarily modify speed while storing previous speed (i.e. passing vehicles, unexpected stopping/slowing), among other things.
Given the fact that most of the functions mentioned in the description of P0566, and related codes (P0565, P0567, P0568, P0569, P0570, etc.), are contained within one switch/component, it should be fairly painless to locate the mechanical inputs (i.e. buttons, switches, talks, etc.) involved. That being said, some of the common names for said component(s) are: Multi-function switch, Steering wheel controls, Cruise control switch, Cruise control module, Accessory switch, etc.
What happened, in this code's case, is the ECM (Engine Control Module) has detected a malfunction(s) within the signal circuit. Simply put, something went wrong within the circuit of the function mentioned in the description.
When the ECM detects a signal malfunction within one or more of the many cruise control functions, it illuminates the CEL (Check engine light) with P0566 and/or related codes. Most likely, the use of said function will be disabled and/or acting abnormally.
Code P0566 is set when the ECM detects a signal malfunction within the OFF signal of the "On/Off" circuit.
An example of cruise control buttons on a steering wheel:
What is the severity of this DTC?
Severity would be considered moderately low. Even if you lose entire functionality of the cruise control system, you can still get to work safely. As far as further damage if left unattended goes, this would be the rare case in which you may be able to neglect if lets say, your vehicle is old and you can live without cruise, or you cannot afford to fix the vehicle.
That being said, it is possible that neglecting ANY electrical issue long enough may result in further damage.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P0566 trouble code may include:
Cruise control light in dash not coming on or constant Cruise control inoperative Cannot set cruise control to desired speed or speed is erratic Certain function(s), within the cruise control system, non-operative (i.e. Resume, Set, +, -, Coast, Accel) Commands not functioning consistentlyWhat are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P0566 code may include:
Cruise control switch, or buttons within the switch, defective and/or damaged Connector(s) not making proper and effective electrical connection Wire(s) within the cruise control harness chafed and/or damaged causing short, open, resistance, etc. Cruise control switch assembly contaminated with fluid (i.e. coffee, soda, juice, etc.) ECM issue Cruise control module defective BCM (Body Control Module) issue Overheated parts causing malfunctionWhat are some P0566 troubleshooting steps?
Basic Step #1
First thing I would do here, is visually inspect the cruise control switch/module. Sometimes, buttons are missing, cola has stuck the button in one position, buttons are loose and not making proper electrical connections. That a
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