What Does P0573 Code Means on Chevy Silverado & How to Fix It?

The manufacturer has also installed a newly developed Adaptive Cruise Control System in most modern Chevy Silverado vehicle models to modify vehicle speed based on its surroundings.

The P0573 is a generic Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) trouble code related to the Cruise control or brake switch circuit malfunctioning and indicates that the “A” Circuit on ACC Brake Switch (Stoplight Switch) has high voltage detected by the vehicle’s PCM.

Later on, in this article, I will discuss more details of this P0573 code on Chevy Silverado, such as its definition, causes to trigger, symptoms, and how to solve this error code.

What Does P0573 Code Mean On Chevy Silverado?

Besides advanced technology to monitor the modern Chevy Silverado engine and its related components, these vehicles are also equipped with other significant features like the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

The P0573 code on the Chevy Silverado means the Cruise control/brake switch “A” circuit is high or sending a high voltage signal due to an electrical error in the system.

Here “A” refers to the particular wiring harness, connector, or other components that have turned bad or malfunctioned to trigger this P0573 Diagnostic Trouble Code.

Mainly, when the PCM on your vehicle detects that the brake switch is not functioning properly, or fails to activate the ACC system, it triggers the P0573 code.

Now you might ask: What is the purpose of the Brake Switch on Chevy Silverado models?

The brake switch is also commonly referred to as the Stop/Brake light switch.

It mainly sends the signal to the vehicle’s powertrain control module so that the PCM can control and modify your vehicle’s different functions according to the surrounding need.

The brake Switch feature also allows you to disable the Adaptive Cruise Control function. You can turn the ACC feature off by pressing your brake pedal.

But when the PCM fails to detect information from your brake switch due to an electrical malfunctioning issue, the P0573 will show up.

What Mainly Happens When the P0573 Code Shows up on Chevy Silverado?

When the internal PCM receives an input signal warning that the vehicle no longer independently controls its speed, it will commence an entire cruise control system test.

During this testing period, if the PCM detects any abnormality in Cruise Control/Brake Switch Circuit’s resistance/voltage level, it sends back a signal (via P0573 code) stating that the system is failing to control the vehicle’s speed.

Therefore, you need to investigate further and service or replace this cruise control as soon as possible.

Quickly check out the dissection of the P0573 code:

• p- Powertrain (the system of components that drive the Chevy Silverado forward)
• 0-Generic malfunction code generated via PCM
• 5-Specific System related to the Cruise Control/Brake Switch Circuit
• 73-The particular information indicates that the Cruise control Brake switch A circuit has higher voltage level than usual.

How Serious Is Code P0573 On Chevy Silverado?

Let me give you a short and straight answer to this question and that is the P0573 code itself is not a serious problem to panic about, but the actual cause behind this code might be a critical one.

Although primarily, we are claiming that this code showed up because the PCM detected a high voltage in the Cruise control circuit system due to the brake switch malfunctioning, you are still not sure exactly what went wrong to cause this failure until you perform a thorough diagnosis on your vehicle to confirm the exact error.

Remember, there can be various other reasons to trigger this code too.

So, it might not be an emergency call, but you are advised to take care of it as soon as possible and not delay the servicing for too long. Otherwise, you will experience significant discomfort driving the vehicle.

What Causes Code P0573 On Chevy Silverado?

Let’s check out the other potential causes that might lead you to see this P0573 code on your vehicle:

• One of the most common reasons to trigger this p0573 trouble code is the Open or short circuitry inside the cruise control buttons due to spilled liquids, blown fuse, or faulty connector pins.
• This warning code might show up due to a defective brake switch or any issues with the wiring.
• A defective or malfunctioned PCM/ECM can also trigger a false alarm, and you will see this error code flashing.
• If the brake switch on your Chevy is not accurately adjusted and if it somehow comes loose or out of its mount, it might also trigger this code.
• Excess amounts of debris can create an obstruction to the brake light switch operation, and it can also trigger the P0573 code.

Other Symptoms Of Getting P0573 Code On Chevy Silverado

Let’s have a look at the other potential sign & symptoms that can also give you a heads-up about the potential problem on your vehicle:

• One of the most common signs is when you notice the cruise control system on your Chevy Silverado is not functioning accurately.
• You might notice that the Cruise control system might turn on, but it will disengage as soon you hit a bump.
• Another sign that you can count on is when you will see that the rear brake lights are not responding because it happens when something is wrong with the vehicle’s brake light switch.
• If you notice an internal fuse blown up, it can be a potential symptom of getting the P0573.
• Other symptoms like the check engine warning light illuminating and defective speedometer are not directly related to this P0573 DTC code, but sometimes these problems give initial hints of this error code.

However, always confirm the cause by diagnosing your vehicle thoroughly first.

How To Fix The P0573 Code On The Chevy Silverado?

Once you have noticed the P0573 Diagnostic Trouble code on your Chevy Silverado vehicle, follow the instructions provided below to troubleshoot the main problem-

List down the required Tools to diagnosis & replace the Cruise Control Switches on Your Chevy Silverado:

10-millimeter Wrench

Flat Blade Screwdriver

Straight Pick Tool

T-15 & T-30 Torx Drivers

Needle Nose Pliers

The Simple & Easy DIY Method To Replace Cruise Control Switches On Chevy Silverado

1. Disconnecting the Battery

First, take your vehicle key out and ensure that the steering wheel is straight with the wheels going straight ahead.

Then take a 10 mm wrench to disconnect the Negative Post on the battery.

Now, wait for around one minute so that it can drain all the capacitors out of the modules and make it safer to remove the airbag next.

2. Removing the Airbag

Take a blunt or straight pick tool and put that tool on the side hole of the airbag assembly as shown in the below image.

There’s a little spring and you have to push on that retains the airbag in there and you got a feel around for it.

Now put a little pressure and pull it.

Next repeat the same method on the other side of the airbag.

  The airbag will come right off and then, disconnect the connectors.

3. Disconnecting the Cruise Control Connectors

Now use a flat blade screwdriver to disconnect the connectors to Cruise Control and pull that plate out.

Some electrical connectors are still connected, and you need to use nose needle pliers to disconnect those connectors one by one to take apart the entire assembly.

4. Taking Off the Cruise Control Switches & Replacing It

Now take the cruise control switches off by unscrewing those screws on the back side of the steering control assembly part with a T-15 Torx driver.

That’s your Cruise Control Switches and now replace the faulty switches with a new kit.

Then re-install or put everything back together securely.

If the Cruise Control Switches do not seem faulty, you should check for a blown fuse and replace it.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix The Chevy Silverado P0573 Code?

Generally, if you perform the diagnosis and servicing by yourself, all you need is the required tools and replacement parts. In that case, you just have to pay the replacement parts price.

But if you take your vehicle to any mechanical workshop, they will first perform a 1-hour diagnosing service on your vehicle to confirm the actual problem.

Replacement Parts & Labor Cost	Estimated Price
Brake Light Switch Replacement Part Price	$20 up to $55
Labor Cost	$75 up to $150

Remember, the cost highly varies depending on your vehicle model, damage or severity level, replacement parts prices, and the local labor rate per hour in your area. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

In today’s article, I explained everything users need to know about the P0573 code, including its definition, potential causes, common symptoms, and how to fix this error code with an easy DIY technique. 

However, if the earlier suggested DIY method does not fix the P0573 trouble code on your Chevy Silverado model, take your vehicle to the nearest authorized workshop.