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DTC codes / P05xx · Vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs / P0574

P0574Cruise Control System - Vehicle Speed Too High

P0574 means the engine computer has detected that vehicle speed exceeded the programmed maximum allowed while the cruise control system was active or attempting to engage. The computer compares the vehicle speed signal from the speed sensor or anti-lock brake system module against the cruise control software's upper speed limit, and it sets this code when the actual speed is higher than that threshold.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityLow
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaVehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

Symptoms you may notice

  • Cruise control will not engage or drops out immediately after you try to set it
  • The cruise control indicator light may flash or stay off when you press the set button
  • The check engine light or a cruise control warning light illuminates on the dashboard
  • The vehicle may drive normally with no other noticeable performance issues
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the fault is intermittent

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Vehicle speed sensor (VSS) or wheel speed sensor sending an erratic or high reading
  2. Wiring damage or corrosion in the speed signal circuit between the sensor and the engine control module
  3. Faulty cruise control switch or stalk that sends a continuous set or resume command
  4. Engine control module (ECM) or cruise control module software calibration issue
  5. A mismatch between tire size and the programmed speed calibration in the computer
  6. Poor electrical connection at the cruise control module or the speed sensor connector

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Use a scan tool to read live vehicle speed data and compare it with a GPS or known accurate speed source to confirm the signal is correct
  2. Inspect the speed sensor and its wiring for chafing, corrosion, or loose connectors, and repair as needed
  3. Check the cruise control switch and stalk for sticking or continuous engagement signals using a multimeter or scan tool data
  4. Verify that the tire size and axle ratio programmed into the computer match the vehicle's actual configuration
  5. Clear the code and test-drive the vehicle at highway speed to see if the code returns
  6. If the code persists, check for technical service bulletins or software updates for the cruise control module
  7. Replace the faulty speed sensor, cruise control switch, or module only after confirming the diagnosis with live data

Speed signal errors that mimic cruise faults

  • A dirty or failing wheel speed sensor can send a brief high-speed spike that the cruise control module interprets as an overspeed condition, even though the vehicle never actually exceeded the limit.
  • Aftermarket tire sizes or a changed differential ratio without recalibrating the computer will cause the calculated speed to be higher than actual, triggering P0574 on an otherwise healthy system.
  • The cruise control switch can fail in a way that keeps the set command active continuously, making the module think the driver is trying to engage cruise at an unsafe speed.
  • P0574 is often stored alongside anti-lock brake system codes because both systems share wheel speed sensor data, so always check for ABS codes before replacing cruise components.
  • A weak battery or poor ground connection can cause voltage spikes that corrupt the speed signal, leading to this code without any physical sensor failure.

Can I keep driving with P0574?

You can usually continue driving safely because the cruise control is disabled and the vehicle otherwise operates normally. Avoid using cruise control until the fault is repaired, and be aware that if the speed signal is erratic, other systems like the speedometer or anti-lock brakes could be affected.

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 all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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