P0586 code meaning
Cruise Control Vent Control Circuit/Open
What P0586 means
Older engines without electronic throttle use a vacuum cruise servo on the throttle cable: a vacuum valve (closed when unpowered) opens the throttle with intake vacuum, a vent valve (open when unpowered) holds or releases it, and a dump valve fed through the brake switch vents it when braking. Where the engine module drives these valves, it checks each circuit and switches cruise off; CARB treats this as emission-neutral, usually without warning lamp. P0586 concerns the vent valve circuit: an open circuit, checked with cruise control active. An unpowered vent valve stays open, so the servo cannot hold vacuum.
P0586 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0586
- Cruise control cannot be engaged or switches off
- Cruise indicator goes out or flashes (depending on vehicle)
- Usually no check engine light, code stored only
Common causes of P0586
- Most likelyServo connector or terminals
- Most likelyVent valve in the servo faulty
- PossibleVent control line open or shorted to ground
- Less likelyEngine module driver
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Cruise control servoServo solenoid valvesServo wiringEngine control module
What each part of P0586 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. |
| 86 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0586 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 P0586
What does P0586 mean?
P0586 means "Cruise Control Vent Control Circuit/Open". Older engines without electronic throttle use a vacuum cruise servo on the throttle cable: a vacuum valve (closed when unpowered) opens the throttle with intake vacuum, a vent valve (open when unpowered) holds or releases it, and a dump valve fed through the brake switch vents it when braking. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0586?
P0586 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P0586 fail an emissions test?
P0586 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 P0586 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0586 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.