AutoCodes – Generic – P0573

P0573 Code - Brake Switch Circuit High Voltage

Quick Answer

The Brake Pedal Position Sensor signal circuit is a B+ input from the Body Control Module (BCM) to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Common causes include Faulty Brake Pedal Position Sensor, Misadjusted Brake Pedal Position Sensor, Brake Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0573 indicates Brake Switch Circuit High Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Brake Pedal Position Sensor, Misadjusted Brake Pedal Position Sensor, Brake Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 74,337
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 14, 2022
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Code P0573 Description

The Brake Pedal Position Sensor signal circuit is a B+ input from the Body Control Module (BCM) to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The BCM and ECM monitor the Brake Pedal Position Sensor signal circuit to detect when the brake pedal has been applied. When the brake pedal is applied, the BCM supplies B+ on the stop lamp signal circuit and also sends a serial data message to the ECM indicating that the brake pedal has been applied. This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a short to voltage on the discrete brake signal circuit when the serial data message from the BCM indicates the brakes are not applied. This diagnostic will run when the serial data message and the voltage signal on the brake switch signal circuit do not match for 8 out 10 times, and the condition is present for greater than 2 s.
OBDII Code P0573 - Brake Switch Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0573 Code - Brake Switch Circuit High Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0573?

  • Faulty Brake Pedal Position Sensor
  • Misadjusted Brake Pedal Position Sensor
  • Brake Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Brake Pedal Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC P0573?

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 P0573 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 P0573 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0573 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0573 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0573 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0573 (Brake Switch Circuit High Voltage)?

The common symptoms of P0573 include the brake lights staying on constantly, cruise control not working, and the inability to shift out of Park.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0573?

The potential causes of P0573 include a faulty brake light switch, a short circuit in the brake light circuit, a malfunctioning brake light relay, or damaged wiring.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0573?

To diagnose P0573, you can start by checking the brake light switch for proper operation, inspecting the brake light circuit for any visible damage, and testing the brake light relay for functionality using a multimeter.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code P0573 present?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P0573 present, as it can affect the proper operation of your brake lights and potentially compromise your safety on the road.

5. How do I repair OBDII code P0573?

To repair P0573, you may need to replace the faulty brake light switch, repair any damaged wiring in the brake light circuit, or replace a malfunctioning brake light relay.

6. Can a DIYer fix OBDII code P0573?

Depending on your level of automotive repair experience, you may be able to address P0573 as a DIY project by following proper diagnostic procedures and replacing the necessary components.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0573 make it go away permanently?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying issue causing P0573 is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

8. Is OBDII code P0573 specific to certain vehicle makes and models?

While P0573 is a generic OBDII code related to a high voltage brake switch circuit, it can occur in various vehicle makes and models equipped with an OBDII system.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0573?

The repair time for P0573 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of accessing and replacing the faulty components. It may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours.

10. Are there any safety implications of ignoring OBDII code P0573?

Ignoring P0573 can pose safety risks, such as the brake lights not functioning properly, which can lead to rear-end collisions or other accidents due to drivers behind you not being alerted when you are braking.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0573 OBDII Code

  • THE INFORMATION DOES NOT DETAILED HOW TO FIX THE PROBLEM.

  • Thank you for your feedback, but you can use the " Possible causes" as reference. You should first try to adjust the brake switch and inspect the connection. If the adjustment and connector is OK, then you should replaced the switch. The switch location and adjustment procedure varies with the your vehicle's make, model and year.

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