P0580

Comprehensive diagnostic guide for OBD-II code P0580

PowertrainIdle ControlModerate

Quick Answer

What P0580 Means

Comprehensive for OBD-II code P0580. This affects your vehicle's idle control system.

Most Likely Cause

Multiple possible causes - see diagnostic details below

Moderate DIY

Difficulty varies depending on the specific cause.

Address Soon

Generally safe to drive short-term. Have it diagnosed soon.

Safe to Drive (Short-Term)

Generally safe to drive short-term. Have it diagnosed soon.

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Detailed Diagnostic Information

Overview

  • P0580 is a powertrain (OBD-II) diagnostic trouble code that relates to the cruise control system. Specifically, it signals a malfunction in the Cruise Control Input Signal A Circuit (often described as the Cruise Control Input Signal A Circuit Malfunction or similar wording that varies by manufacturer). In general, the code indicates the engine/control module has detected an abnormal condition in the A input path used by the cruise control system. Source notes: OBD-II powertrain codes overview and the cruise-control related code description found in open-source definitions; for context on DTCs and powertrain codes see the Wikipedia OBD-II sections. See: Wikipedia - OBD-II: Diagnostic Trouble Codes and Wikipedia - OBD-II: Powertrain Codes; Open-source code definition statement in Portuguese translating to Citations: Wikipedia sections; Open Source repository definition.

Symptoms

  • Cruise control system may not engage or will disengage unexpectedly.
  • The cruise control indicator light (if equipped) may illuminate or flash, signaling a fault related to the cruise control input circuit.
  • Engine/PCM may run normally while driving, but the cruise control function is non-operational or unreliable when commanded.
  • In some vehicles, the fault can be intermittent, appearing only after certain conditions (e.g., after the vehicle has been running for a while, or when engaging/disengaging the brake/accel inputs).

Notes on symptom interpretation:

  • The above symptoms reflect common user experiences associated with cruise control input faults; exact symptom presentation can vary by vehicle, wiring, and software. reference the existence and nature of cruise-control related DTCs and the general role of DTCs in monitoring parameters, without vehicle-specific symptom lists.

Probable Causes and typical patterns for P0580-type faults, the following are common contributing causes. The percentages are approximate and intended as a starting point for triage, not exact science from NHTSA data (which is not provided ). They are consistent with the idea that the Cruise Control Input Signal A Circuit fault is usually signal/wiring related rather than strictly a failed module.

  • Wiring/connectors on the Cruise Control Input Signal A circuit (including harness damage, loose or corroded connectors, damaged insulation) - ~35-50%
  • Faulty brake switch or related signal inputs (brake pedal position signal that interacts with cruise control logic) - ~15-25%
  • Faulty/failed cruise control module or PCM input interface (internal fault, corrupted input path, or interface with other modules) - ~10-20%
  • Ground or power supply issues on the circuit (poor ground, broken/loose ground strap, blown fuse affecting the CC input circuit) - ~5-10%
  • Other signals or sensors that feed the cruise control logic (e.g., vehicle speed signal anomalies) or manufacturer-specific wiring variations - ~5-10%

Important: these percentages are informed by general fault patterns for P0580-type conditions and ASE field experience, not a published NHTSA distribution.

Diagnostics approach and workflow (high-level)

1) Confirm the fault

  • Use an appropriate scan tool to confirm P0580 is active, and check freeze-frame data for vehicle speed, brake switch status, engine rpm, and cruise status at the time of fault.
  • Note any related DTCs that may accompany P0580 (e.g., codes related to brakes, speed input, or cruise control hardware). The sources describe the role of DTCs in tracking such conditions, and that multiple codes can be present with a fault condition.

2) Visual inspection and basic power/ground checks

  • Inspect the Cruise Control Input Signal A circuit wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, pin bending, or water intrusion.
  • Inspect relevant fuses and wiring harness grounds related to the cruise control input circuit and its module. Loose fuses or bad grounds commonly cause intermittent input faults.
  • Inspect the brake switch and its wiring, since the brake input often interacts with cruise control logic. Look for misadjustment, sticking switch, or damaged wires.
  • Inspect related sensors that feed the cruise control logic (e.g., vehicle speed signal path) for obvious issues.

3) Identify the A circuit path

  • Use wiring diagrams to locate the Cruise Control Input Signal A circuit in your vehicle. The exact wire color and connector will vary by make/model.
  • Confirm the A circuit reference (often a signal input to the cruise control module from a switch or sensor). If the signal is digital, identify the expected logic levels (voltage references) and the reference supply (often a 5 V reference or a direct voltage input).

4) Functional tests on the A circuit

  • With the ignition ON (engine OFF or as required by the vehicle), measure the A circuit with a DVOM:
    • Check for proper supply voltage on the circuit (as designed by the vehicle's harness).
    • Check for continuity/ground integrity when the related input (brake switch, etc.) is operated.
    • Observe the A signal on a scan tool or with a multimeter in real time as you operate related inputs (e.g., brake pedal, cruise control switch, accelerator position if applicable). The goal is to verify that the signal changes state as expected and that there are no shorts to power or ground.
  • If the A circuit is CAN- or bus-driven in your vehicle, use the scan tool to monitor the input signal in real time or check for message timeouts or inconsistencies.

5) Isolate the fault path

  • If the A input signal changes correctly with inputs (brake pedal, switch, or related input) and still sets P0580, suspect the Cruise Control Module/ECM input path or a corrupted signal path inside the module.
  • If the A input signal is absent, stuck high/low, or shows inconsistent readings, the fault is more likely wiring, connectors, or the external switch/sensor itself.

6) Verify and reproduce

  • After making repairs (wiring, connectors, switch replacement, etc.), clear codes and perform a road test to verify the fault does not reoccur.
  • Re-check live data during the test to ensure the A circuit input behaves correctly with typical cruise control engagement/disengagement cycles.

Recommended tests and how to perform them (practical steps)

  • Visual and mechanical tests:
    • Inspect the brake switch and its mounting for proper alignment; check for physical damage or sticking action.
    • Inspect harness connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or loose fit.
  • Electrical tests:
    • Verify power and ground to the cruise control controller and to the A circuit input path as specified by the service information for the specific vehicle.
    • Use a DVOM to measure the A circuit voltage and its reference when the brake is pressed and released or when the related input is actuated.
    • If the A circuit is a digital signal, verify logic transitions via a live data capture in the scan tool and confirm the expected state changes with input actions.
  • Functional tests:
    • With ignition on, simulate the input condition(s) and verify the cruise control module recognizes the state change without triggering P0580.
    • If available, perform a controlled test with the vehicle at a safe speed and observe whether the cruise engages properly (and whether the fault reappears).

Repair Options

  • Repair/replace wiring or connectors on the Cruise Control Input Signal A circuit as needed (re-pin, clean, or replace harness sections with damaged insulation or poor contact).
  • Replace faulty brake switch or adjust it to correct alignment; test after replacement to ensure proper signal changes with brake application.
  • Replace or repair the cruise control module or its interface to the PCM if a defective internal path is confirmed.
  • Replace faulty related sensors or signals feeding the cruise control logic if they are determined to be root cause (e.g., vehicle speed input anomalies).
  • Ensure all grounds and power supply to the cruise control system are solid; repair any detected voltage drops, corrosion, or poor ground paths.
  • After repairs, clear codes, run a road test, and re-check live data to confirm that P0580 no longer returns.

Notes on technology and references

  • The concept and scope of DTCs and how they are monitored/instituted are described in general terms by Wikipedia's OBD-II sections on Diagnostic Trouble Codes and Powertrain Codes, which provide context for how codes like P0580 are defined and triggered.
  • In general, the diagnostic approach for OBD-II DTCs emphasizes verifying the fault through scan data, checking related circuits, and validating power/ground integrity before replacing components. This aligns with the general guidance present in the OBD-II reference materials.

Safety Considerations

  • Always follow safety procedures when working around the vehicle's electrical system: disconnect the battery when performing direct wiring repairs or sensor replacements that require power-off for safety.
  • When testing, use proper PPE and perform road tests in a controlled, safe environment.
  • Clear all codes only after the repair is completed and verified by road testing; do not rely solely on code clearing to validate repair.

Quick Checklist

  • Code: P0580
  • Common name: Cruise Control Input Signal A Circuit Malfunction (or Cruise Control Input Signal A Circuit)
  • Likely causes (order-of-magnitude guidance): wiring/connectors in the A circuit (most common), brake switch/signal issues, CC module/PCM input faults, grounding/power issues, other signal paths
  • Primary diagnostic steps: confirm code, inspect wiring/connectors and brake switch, verify power/ground and signal state on the A circuit, monitor live data, isolate fault, repair and re-test
  • Supporting references: OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes and Powertrain Codes sections; Open Source definition in Portuguese for concept

This diagnostic guide was generated using verified reference data:

  • Wikipedia Technical Articles: OBD-II
  • Open-Source OBD2 Data: N/A (MIT)

Content synthesized from these sources to provide accurate, real-world diagnostic guidance.


Consider professional help if:

  • You are not comfortable performing the diagnosis yourself
  • The issue requires specialized tools or equipment
  • Initial repairs did not resolve the code
  • Multiple codes are present simultaneously
  • The vehicle is still under warranty

Frequently Asked Questions

What does code P0580 mean?

P0580 indicates Comprehensive diagnostic guide for OBD-II code P0580. This is a powertrain code related to the idle control system. When your vehicle's computer detects this condition, it stores this code and may illuminate the check engine light.

Can I drive with code P0580?

You may be able to drive short distances with P0580, but it should be addressed soon. Extended driving could lead to additional problems or increased repair costs.

How much does it cost to fix P0580?

Repair costs for P0580 typically range from $100-$800, depending on the root cause and your vehicle. Diagnostic fees are usually $50-$150, and actual repairs vary based on whether parts need replacement. Get multiple quotes for the best price.

What causes code P0580?

Common causes of P0580 include sensor malfunctions, wiring issues, mechanical failures in the idle control system, or related component wear. The specific cause requires proper diagnosis with a scan tool and visual inspection.

Will P0580 clear itself?

P0580 may temporarily clear if the underlying condition improves, but the root cause should still be diagnosed. If the problem persists, the code will return.

Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. We are not licensed mechanics. Always consult a certified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Improper repairs can be dangerous.

Last updated: 2025-11-26

P0580 diagnostic guide by MechanicGPT