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DTC codes / P05xx · Vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs / P0589

P0589Cruise Control Multi-Function Input 'B' Circuit

P0589 indicates that the cruise control module has detected an abnormal signal on the multi-function input 'B' circuit, which is typically the steering-wheel switch circuit used to set, resume, or cancel cruise speed. The computer compares the voltage or resistance from the switch against expected values and sets the code when the reading falls outside the valid range for a calibrated period.

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

Symptoms you may notice

  • Cruise control does not engage at all when you press the set button
  • Cruise control engages but disengages unexpectedly or will not resume
  • Steering-wheel cruise buttons feel unresponsive or require extra force
  • Horn or other steering-wheel-mounted controls may also stop working if they share the same clock spring
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with cruise still functioning normally in some cases

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty cruise control switch on the steering wheel (worn contacts or internal open circuit)
  2. Damaged or dirty clock spring (spiral cable) in the steering column causing intermittent or high-resistance connection
  3. Corroded, loose, or damaged wiring and connectors between the switch and the cruise control module
  4. Failed cruise control module or body control module not recognizing the correct input voltage
  5. Poor ground connection at the steering wheel switch or module
  6. Aftermarket steering-wheel cover or accessory interfering with switch operation

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Use a scan tool to read live data for the cruise control switch inputs and confirm that input 'B' is not registering correctly when buttons are pressed
  2. Inspect the steering-wheel cruise switch for physical damage, sticky buttons, or contamination, and clean or replace as needed
  3. Check the clock spring connector and wiring for continuity and resistance while turning the steering wheel through its range
  4. Test the switch circuit at the cruise control module connector with a multimeter to compare actual voltage or resistance against the manufacturer's specification
  5. Verify that the cruise control module and steering-wheel switch share a clean, tight ground connection
  6. If all wiring and switches test good, substitute a known-good cruise control module or reprogram the existing module per service information
  7. Clear the code and perform a road test to confirm the repair and ensure the code does not return

What the cruise switch circuit hides

  • A failing clock spring often causes P0589 before any airbag warning appears, so a code for the cruise switch can be the first sign of a spiral cable problem.
  • The multi-function input 'B' circuit is frequently shared with other steering-wheel buttons, so a single faulty switch can disable multiple functions without any other codes.
  • Some vehicles set P0589 when the cruise control module loses its ground reference, which can happen from a loose bolt or corroded ground stud rather than a failed switch.
  • Aftermarket steering-wheel covers or phone mounts can press on the cruise buttons and cause intermittent out-of-range signals that mimic a wiring fault.
  • A battery that has been disconnected or run low can cause the cruise module to lose its learned switch values, setting P0589 until a relearn procedure is performed.

Can I keep driving with P0589?

The vehicle remains safe to drive because the cruise control system is disabled, but you should avoid using cruise control until the fault is repaired. If the horn or airbag warning light also appears, have the clock spring inspected promptly because those systems may 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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