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DTC codes / Ford codes / P1572

P1572 · FordBrake Pedal Switch Circuit Malfunction

P1572 on Ford vehicles means the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an implausible signal from the brake pedal position switch circuit, typically a disagreement between the two internal switch contacts or an out-of-range voltage. The PCM uses this switch to know when the brake pedal is pressed for torque converter lockup, cruise control cancel, and shift interlock logic, so it flags the code when the expected voltage does not match the pedal state.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeFord specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaVehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illuminated check engine light or wrench light with no other noticeable symptoms
  • Cruise control fails to engage or cancels unexpectedly when driving
  • Torque converter clutch may stay locked or unlock harshly during braking
  • Difficulty shifting out of Park because the brake-shift interlock does not release
  • Brake lights may stay on constantly or fail to illuminate when the pedal is pressed
  • In some cases the engine may hesitate or stall when coming to a stop

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Worn or misadjusted brake pedal position switch (also called brake on/off switch) on the pedal bracket
  2. Damaged or chafed wiring in the brake switch harness near the pedal assembly
  3. Corroded or loose electrical connector at the brake pedal switch
  4. Failed brake pedal position sensor (if equipped with a variable voltage sensor rather than a simple switch)
  5. Blown fuse or faulty ground shared with the brake switch circuit
  6. Faulty PCM or body control module (BCM) interpreting the switch signal incorrectly, though rare

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Inspect the brake pedal switch for proper adjustment and mechanical operation, checking that the plunger moves freely and the switch clicks when the pedal is pressed
  2. Check the brake light operation and compare it with the scan tool data for the brake pedal switch parameter to confirm a mismatch
  3. Disconnect the switch connector and inspect for corrosion, bent pins, or pushed-out terminals, then clean and reseat if needed
  4. Measure voltage and resistance on the switch circuit according to Ford service information, looking for open circuits, shorts to ground, or shorts to power
  5. Test the switch itself with a multimeter in continuity mode while operating the pedal, replacing it if the internal contacts do not change state correctly
  6. If the switch and wiring test good, check for a faulty brake pedal position sensor or a PCM software update, and reprogram or replace the PCM only as a last resort

Brake switch checks before PCM replacement

  • Many technicians replace the PCM when the real problem is a $30 brake pedal switch that has worn internal contacts, so always verify the switch signal at the PCM connector first.
  • The brake pedal switch on many Ford models has two separate circuits (normally open and normally closed) that the PCM compares; a single stuck contact can set P1572 without affecting brake lights at all.
  • After replacing the brake pedal switch, the PCM may need a relearn procedure or the code will reset immediately, so check Ford service information for the specific model's calibration steps.
  • A misadjusted switch that is not fully depressed when the pedal is released can cause the code to set intermittently, especially in cold weather when the pedal bumper hardens.
  • Related codes such as P0504 or P0571 may also be present because they share the same brake switch input, so diagnosing the switch circuit often clears multiple codes at once.

Can I keep driving with P1572?

You can usually drive the vehicle with P1572 set, but avoid relying on cruise control and be aware that the brake-shift interlock may not release, which could leave you unable to shift out of Park. If the brake lights are not working, do not drive until the circuit is repaired because other drivers cannot see your braking.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Ford vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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