Is it safe to drive with this code?

Driving is generally possible, but your cruise control will likely be disabled and brake lights may not function correctly, which presents a significant safety risk to following traffic. The issue may also affect ABS or ESC systems in an emergency. Address the fault promptly – see our disclaimer for further guidance.

It may affect your MOT – what matters is whether the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is illuminated at the time of the test and whether your brake lights operate correctly when checked. Non-functioning brake lights are an automatic MOT failure. Refer to our disclaimer for full details.

Roughly how much does it cost to fix?

Repair costs vary considerably. A simple fuse replacement or switch adjustment may fall into the low two-figure range. Replacing a faulty brake switch typically costs in the low three-figure range (parts plus labour). More complex wiring repairs or Body Control Module replacement can reach the mid to high three-figure range. Independent garages often charge less than main dealers, and labour rates vary by region.

Can I adjust the brake switch myself?

In many vehicles the brake switch can be adjusted by loosening a locknut and repositioning the switch body relative to the brake pedal arm, but incorrect adjustment may cause additional faults or prevent the brake lights from working. Consult your vehicle's service manual for the correct procedure and clearances before attempting adjustment.

Professional mechanic working in workshop

← All fault codes | Electrical & Sensors

P0572

Powertrain

Cruise Control/Brake Switch A Circuit Low

The engine control module has detected lower than expected voltage from the brake switch circuit, which typically affects the cruise control and brake light operation.

garage.co.uk

Need a garage?

Compare quotes from verified UK garages near you.

→

car.co.uk

Sell your car

We specialise in problem cars: warning lights, faults, high mileage. Fair instant offer.

→

trader.co.uk

List your car

Free private listing. Reach thousands of UK buyers, no fees.

→

ⓘ Information only. This page provides general educational information about fault code P0572. We do not assess the urgency or safety implications of any specific fault. That requires in-person diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. Full terms.

Recommended next steps

Whether a fault is urgent, drivable, or routine depends entirely on the cause on a specific vehicle, and that can only be determined by a qualified mechanic with diagnostic equipment. If a warning light is illuminated, the most reliable next step is professional diagnosis.

What does P0572 mean?

P0572 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Cruise Control/Brake Switch A Circuit Low.

This is a standardised OBD-II code. The technical definition is the same regardless of the make or model of vehicle, although specific causes and symptoms can vary between vehicles.

About Electrical & Sensors codes

Codes in the Electrical & Sensors category.

P0572 is one of 4,010 codes in this category. Browse all Electrical & Sensors codes →

What we know about P0572 specifically

We record the SAE J2012 standardised definition and the system this code belongs to, but we have not yet published detailed driver-reported symptoms, common causes, or step-by-step diagnostic guidance for P0572.

Rather than invent that information by generating generic content from a template, we leave it out. For specific guidance, the most reliable sources are:

•your vehicle's own service manual or manufacturer-specific technical bulletins
•a qualified mechanic with a manufacturer-level diagnostic tool
•a marque specialist familiar with your make and model

Codes nearby

Codes adjacent to P0572 in the P-code series. Many fault codes appear together with their neighbours because they relate to the same circuit or component.

P0562 System Voltage Low

P0570 Cruise Control Accel Signal Malfunction

P0571 Cruise Control/Brake Switch A Circuit Malfunction

P0573 Cruise Control/Brake Switch A Circuit High

P0575 Cruise Control Input Circuit

P0576 Cruise Control Input Circuit Low

Other Electrical & Sensors codes

Other fault codes in the same system as P0572. The ones with detailed guides have plain-English explanations, symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

B1257

Air Temperature External Sensor Circuit Short To Ground Detailed guide

B1363

DBPT Circuit Short To Ground Detailed guide

B2100

Ignition Run/Start Input Circuit Performance Detailed guide

C2000

Steering Angle Sensor Not Calibrated Detailed guide

P0030

HO2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1) Detailed guide

P0031

Oxygen (A/F) Sensor Heater Control Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1) Detailed guide

Spotted an issue or have something to add? Mechanics, technicians, and drivers who have first-hand experience with P0572 can submit a correction or expansion. We review every submission before publishing, mechanic submissions are prioritised.

Information only, not professional advice

The information on this page is provided for general guidance and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or repair advice from a qualified mechanic. Always verify any fault before paying for repairs. carfaultcodes.co.uk accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information. Full terms →

✎

Help us improve the P0572 page

Spotted an error, missing detail, or have first-hand experience to add? Tell us, we review every submission.