Guide To P0581 OBD Error Code Solutions

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Every car has a Body Control Module or ‘body computer’ which controls The Cruise Control System. The function of the Body Control Module is to monitor all inputs from cruise control system and pass on those requests to the Powertrain Control Module /PCM. When the Body Control Module detects any invalid input from the cruise control switches, it will set error code P0581.

The cruise control module is responsible for controlling the speed of the vehicle. For this to happen in an orderly fashion, the PCM monitors the performance of components of the cruise control. And when the PCM detects abnormal (against the manufacturer's specifications) reading from the the cruise control multifunction circuit it will proceed to storing P0581 error code.

What causes this problem with the Cruise Control Multifunction Input "A" Circuit High?

• Defect in the multifunction/cruise control switch.
• Damages of the wiring like; chafing on steering column/dash parts, corrosion etc.
• Malfunctioning connector
• Dirt (grime/fluids) in the cruise control switch causing improper mechanical operation
• Problem with the ECM

1. Cruise Control Switch - Clean and repair it if possible, otherwise replace it easily with Parts Avatar.
2. Body Control Module - Approach a professional to repair or replace it. We deliver to your doorstep, simply place order online with Parts Avatar.
3. Cruise Control System - Try to repair and replace it as required.
4. Engine Control Module - A very expensive part to replace and important for your vehicle, trust us with the finest quality ECM compatible for your vehicle.
5. Fuel Injection - Repair or replace fuel injector parts that are superior quality, and last you a long time.
6. Connectors - Purchase online at Parts Avatar and avail free shipping on order over CAD $99.
7. Fuse - Repair all blown fuses or replace them if damage is extensive.
8. Straps - Ensure they’re not damaged, repairing may not fix strap issues, replace them as soon as possible. Order anytime on our website.

If you are facing OBD error code P0581, then there are significant common symptoms that can be felt or observed. We have worked out a list here to help you out in understanding this problem better.

Common Symptoms

• Deviant vehicle speeds even with the cruise control active
• Inoperative cruise control switch
• Regardless of the position of the switch, the cruise control light is on
• Unable to set desired speed on the cruise control

After you know the symptoms of your vehicle’s problem, it becomes easy to detect them and get started with solving it. So, next on our list is few common steps to correct this issue with your vehicle:

• Replace the faulty cruise control switch
• Replacing the damaged cruise control buttons. This will ensure the replacement switch doesn’t get damaged.
• All open, shorted, damaged electrical components will have to repaired including wiring, harnesses and connectors
• Replace any blown fuses properly

Apart from this, you might need to replace other damaged parts too like; Body Control Module, cruise control system, Engine Control Module, fuel injection, straps and more. You can easily find all these parts at Parts Avatar. Not only that’ you can get these parts shipped to your door for free, if your cart value exceeds CAD $99.

Here are 3 steps you can follow in order to diagnose this fault OBD code:

Step 1 - Locate your vehicle's Multifunction/ cruise control switch and visually inspect it for any degree of contamination. Plastic switches/ buttons tend to get dirty very easily, you may note dirt, greasiness etc. these can lead to malfunction of them. So, ensure the mechanical operation switch is clean and functioning smoothly. Don’t delay any issues with this. If you have found them to be dirty, simply use a dampened cleaning rag with either water, or soapy water or dash cleaner. to carefully remove any debris, greasiness etc. from the switch’s crevices. You can also use an air powered blow gun to remove dry dirt without causing further damage. Avoid spraying any cleaning solution on the buttons directly. Now, use your scan tool to observe the electronic operation of the switch via data streaming, so that you can observe the data in real-time.

Step 2 - Get access to the connectors and harnesses involved within the cruise control/ multifunction switch input circuit, for this you may have to remove some dash plastic/shrouds. Be as sensitive as possible when working with plastic, being in comfortable room temperatures assists in easing the dash/interior plastic assembly or disassembly. Use specific troubleshooting steps provided by your service manual, once you have accessed the connector. Record electrical values using your multimeter, for this you may have to operate the switch while recording and/or static testing. You can refer the diagnostic flow chart present in your automobile models service manual for this.

Step 3 - The ECM is rarely the issue in this error code, however as a last resort, you may have to check for any issues with it. And since it is a very important component of your vehicle, reach out to a professional mechanic to replace or repair it.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0581 Code

You may commit the following common mistake while diagnosing, be mindful of them:

• Failure of BCM
• Failure of cruise control module switch
• Problem with the wiring