P0572 code meaning
Brake Switch A Circuit Low
What P0572 means
Brake switch A is the brake light switch or its signal to the engine module. The module needs it to cancel cruise control and for brake-throttle override, stop-start, idle control and the shift interlock. As cruise control is simply switched off, CARB treats such faults as emission-neutral – usually without warning lamp. P0572 means the switch signal stays low – never pressed – although the car brakes. Ford gasoline checks over 25 brake applications, Ford diesel over 40 decelerations; GM in the Saab 9-4X and 9-5 compares the input with the body module's message, 8 of 10 samples over 2 s. Cruise control is locked out; Ford shows only the wrench lamp.
P0572 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyEasy, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 1 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0572
- Cruise control not working
- Brake lights not lit (depending on cause)
- Wrench lamp (Ford), no check engine light
Common causes of P0572
- Most likelyBrake light switch faulty or misadjusted (not switching)
- PossibleBrake light or switch supply fuse blown
- PossibleSignal line open or shorted to ground, connector
- Less likelyBody or engine module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Brake switchBrake light fuseSwitch wiringEngine control module
What each part of P0572 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| 72 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0572 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0572
What does P0572 mean?
P0572 means "Brake Switch A Circuit Low". Brake switch A is the brake light switch or its signal to the engine module. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0572?
P0572 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P0572 fail an emissions test?
P0572 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P0572 to fix?
Difficulty: easy. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 1 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0572 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.