AutoCodes – Generic – P1597

P1597 Code - Speed Control Switch Always Low

Quick Answer

The speed control system is electronically controlled and vacuum operated. Common causes include Faulty Speed Control Switch, Speed Control Brake Switch harness is open or shorted, Speed Control Brake Switch electrical circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means: P1597 indicates Speed Control Switch Always Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Speed Control Switch, Speed Control Brake Switch harness is open or shorted, Speed Control Brake Switch electrical circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?: The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

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Code Popularity 6,547

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 20, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1597 Description

The speed control system is electronically controlled and vacuum operated. Electronic control of the speed control system is integrated into the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The controls consist of two steering wheel mounted switches. The switches are labeled: ON/OFF, RES/ACCEL, SET, COAST, and CANCEL. The system is designed to operate at speeds above 30 mph (50 km/h).

OBDII Code P1597 - Speed Control Switch Always Low - AutoCodes.com — P1597 Code - Speed Control Switch Always Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1597?

Faulty Speed Control Switch
Speed Control Brake Switch harness is open or shorted
Speed Control Brake Switch electrical circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Clockspring
Clockspring harness is open or shorted
Clockspring electrical circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1597?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1597 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P1597 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P1597 Chrysler — Speed Control Switch Always Low
P1597 Dodge — Speed Control Switch Always Low
P1597 Jeep — Speed Control Switch Always Low

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.