P0571 Code: Honda Civic (2022-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

Below is a comprehensive diagnostic guide for OBD-II code P0571 as it applies to the 2022-2024 Honda Civic, written within the data constraints you provided.

Important data context

• From the real NHTSA data you supplied for Honda Civic (2022-2024): No owner complaints exist for this issue, and no recalls are listed in the NHTSA database.
• This guide uses general automotive knowledge for the technical explanations. Because there are no specific complaints or recalls in the supplied data, the guidance focuses on typical P0571 behavior and Honda-specific considerations, while clearly noting data limitations.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• What P0571 means (general): P0571 is in the Cruise Control family and is described as a circuit range/performance issue for the Cruise Control Input A signal. In practical terms, it indicates the vehicle’s computer detected an out-of-range or inconsistent signal related to the cruise control input (such as signals from the brake switch, clutch switch, or related wiring) that can prevent proper cruise control operation or cause the cruise control to disengage unexpectedly.
• Severity on a Civic: Not usually a safety-critical fault by itself, but it can result in the cruise control not operating correctly, or disengaging while driving. If the issue is masking a brake switch or vehicle speed signal problem, that could be more impactful. In most cases, you’ll notice cruise control problems before you notice any immediate safety issue.

COMMON CAUSES ON HONDA CIVIC

• Faulty brake pedal switch (brake light switch): Most Hondas use the brake switch to signal the brake pedal being pressed. If this switch is misadjusted, defective, or has poor electrical contact, the cruise control input signal can be interpreted as inconsistent, triggering P0571.
• Faulty clutch switch (manual transmission): Some Civic configurations use a clutch switch as part of the cruise control input logic. If this switch is faulty, it can create an improper input for the cruise control system.
• Wiring harness/connector problems: Damaged, frayed, corroded, or loose connectors (especially around the brake switch, clutch switch, and the cruise control module wiring) can cause intermittent or out-of-range signals.
• Faulty cruise control module or related control wiring: The control module that processes cruise control inputs may have an internal fault or intermittent connection.
• Fuse/relay issues: A blown fuse or a degraded relay in the cruise control circuit can cause erratic input signals.
• Vehicle speed sensor (VSS) or speed signal concerns (indirect relationship): Some P0571 scenarios involve signals that the cruise control system uses to verify speed consistency. A failing VSS or a dirty/contaminated tone wheel can produce abnormal speed data that affects cruise control input processing.
• Aftermarket devices or modifications: Aftermarket cruise control add-ons, wiring, or reworked electrical harnesses can introduce signal integrity problems that trip P0571.

SYMPTOMS

• Cruise control will not engage, or it disengages shortly after engaging.
• Cruise control may engage intermittently and then drop out (often correlated with brake pedal or clutch pedal action).
• Brake pedal or cruise control signal anomalies observed in the vehicle data (e.g., brake lights on or off unexpectedly during typical driving, indicating a brake switch issue that could trigger P0571).
• No change in vehicle drivability (engine runs normally, no misfire, etc.) beyond the cruise control behavior.
• In some cases, a secondary or related code may appear (e.g., a brake switch code) if the fault is strictly with the switch.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: Start by confirming the code and gathering data with a capable OBD-II scan tool.

• Step 1: Confirm and contextualize

  • Use a scan tool to confirm P0571 is present and note any freeze-frame data (speed, gear, brake status, etc.).
  • Check for any other related codes (P0570, P0572, or other P0xxx codes) that might indicate a broader cruise-control or input-signal issue.
  • Clear codes, run the vehicle, and re-scan to see if the code returns under the same conditions.

• Step 2: Inspect the brake switch and related inputs

  • Verify brake lights: When you press the brake pedal, do the brake lights illuminate normally? If brake lights are inconsistent or not coming on, the brake switch is suspect.
  • Inspect brake light switch location and adjustment: The switch is typically mounted near the brake pedal. Look for misadjustment, sticking plunger, or physical damage.
  • Test the brake switch with a multimeter (if you have access):
    • With pedal up (not pressed), brake switch should be open (no continuity) or show a specific low-level signal per the car’s service manual.
    • With pedal pressed, switch should close (continuity) and circuit should show expected voltage/signal to the PCM.
  • If the brake switch is misadjusted, dirty, or faulty, replace or adjust as needed.

• Step 3: Inspect the clutch switch (if applicable)

  • If the Civic variant has a clutch switch for manual transmission, verify its operation similarly to the brake switch.
  • Ensure there is proper signaling when the clutch pedal is pressed; misadjustment or failure can disrupt cruise input signals.

• Step 4: Check wiring and connectors

  • Inspect the wiring harnesses and connectors for the brake switch, clutch switch (if present), and cruise control module:
    • Look for damaged insulation, chafed wires, corrosion, or loose connectors.
    • Disconnect and reseat connectors to ensure a solid connection; replace any damaged connectors or wires.
  • Look for aftermarket installations (e.g., aftermarket cruise control, alarms, or wiring) that could create signal interference.

• Step 5: Inspect the cruise control module and associated circuitry

  • Inspect the cruise control module connectors for corrosion or bent pins; reseat connectors.
  • If you have access to service data, verify there are no known module fault conditions or software updates that affect input signal processing (note: your data set does not list recalls or official TSBs; proceed with caution and rely on service documentation if available to you).

• Step 6: Check fuses and relays

  • Locate the fuse and relay responsible for cruise control (and related input circuits) and verify they are intact and properly seated.
  • Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage rating.

• Step 7: Inspect vehicle speed signal path

  • If the above steps don’t reveal a fault, test the vehicle speed signal path:
    • Check Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) wiring and the sensor itself for damage or dirt.
    • Confirm the PCM/ECU receives a stable speed signal; intermittent speed data can sometimes impact cruise control input processing.

• Step 8: Consider software/ECU considerations

  • In the absence of recalls from the provided data, consider if a software update or recalibration is available for your Civic’s ECU/PCM that affects cruise control behavior. If available, have the dealer or a qualified technician perform updates.

• Step 9: Reproduce and verify

  • After each repair step, clear the codes, drive the vehicle under typical conditions, and attempt to engage cruise control to confirm whether the issue is resolved.

RELATED CODES

• P0570: Cruise Control System Malfunction (general fault in cruise control system, may include input circuit issues)
• P0572: Cruise Control Input A Circuit High (input signal is higher than expected)
• P0573: Cruise Control Input A Circuit Interval or range issue (varies by dealer/vehicle)

Note: The P057x family relates to cruise control input signals. When diagnosing P0571, it’s common to see related codes appear, or to see P0570 as a broader cruise control fault. In the Honda Civic, the exact naming and interpretation can align with these general descriptions.

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices are approximate ranges based on common repair costs in 2025 and can vary by region, dealership vs. independent shop, and specific Civic trim level.

• Brake light switch replacement/adjustment

  • Parts: $15–$60
  • Labor: $40–$120
  • Estimated total: $60–$180

• Brake pedal assembly or brake switch replacement (if switch integrated into pedal assembly or needs replacement)

  • Parts: $20–$120
  • Labor: $60–$180
  • Estimated total: $100–$300

• Clutch switch replacement (manual transmission)

  • Parts: $20–$70
  • Labor: $50–$150
  • Estimated total: $70–$220

• Wiring harness/connectors repair or replacement (signal path to brake/clutch switch or cruise control module)

  • Parts: $10–$200 (depending on extent)
  • Labor: $100–$400
  • Estimated total: $110–$600

• Vehicle speed sensor (VSS) replacement or repair (if implicated)

  • Parts: $25–$120
  • Labor: $70–$180
  • Estimated total: $95–$300

• Cruise control module or control wiring repair (less common, dealer-level work)

  • Parts: $100–$600 (module itself)
  • Labor: $120–$400
  • Estimated total: $220–$1000

• ECU/PCM reprogram or software update (dealer or specialized shop)

  • Parts: $0–$150 (software/licensing may be included in labor)
  • Labor: $100–$350
  • Estimated total: $100–$500

Notes:

• If the root cause is a simple brake switch adjustment or replacement, costs are typically on the lower end.
• If the fault involves wiring harness repair or a module issue, costs can be higher.
• Since there are no official recalls in the provided data, pricing considerations assume standard diagnostic and repair pricing outside of any factory warranty actions.

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY-friendly steps (often suitable for a mechanically inclined DIYer):

  • Inspect brake light switch operation and adjust/replace if needed.
  • Check for obvious wiring damage near the brake pedal area and reseat any loose connectors.
  • Verify brake lights operate correctly when the pedal is pressed.
  • Check fuses related to cruise control with the vehicle’s fuse diagram.
  • If you’re comfortable with electrical testing, test the brake switch continuity with a multimeter and inspect the switch at the pedal.

• When to call a professional:

  • If brake switch adjustment or replacement does not resolve the code.
  • If wiring harness or connectors appear damaged or corroded in hard-to-reach areas.
  • If the issue involves the cruise control module or vehicle speed sensor wiring that requires specialized tools or software.
  • If ECU/PCM software updates are required or if you’re unsure about the diagnostic data.

• What a pro will typically do:

  • Perform a systematic electrical diagnostics with a scope or diagnostic tool to verify signal integrity.
  • Inspect and test the entire brake/clutch input circuit, harnesses, and the cruise control module connections.
  • Confirm no other vehicle systems (like ABS or speed sensing) are contributing to the fault.
  • Reflash or update the ECU/PCM if applicable and supported by Honda using official software.

PREVENTION

• Regularly inspect the brake pedal switch area for signs of wear, misadjustment, or water ingress; correct any misadjustments promptly.
• Keep electrical connectors clean and dry; address corrosion or damaged insulation on wires near the pedal assemblies.
• Avoid aftermarket modifications that touch the cruise control input path unless designed specifically for your Civic and installed by qualified personnel.
• If you notice intermittent cruise control behavior, address it early before it becomes a larger electrical issue.
• Ensure fuses and relays in the cruise control circuit are intact and properly seated.
• Periodically update the vehicle’s software if your dealer provides an approved update for cruise control or input signal processing (per Honda service recommendations).

Data limitations and transparency

• The provided data indicates no owner complaints and no recalls for the Honda Civic (2022–2024) related to P0571. Therefore, this guide emphasizes diagnostics and common causes based on general OBD-II knowledge and Honda cruise control input behavior rather than a record of widespread, documented failures in this specific model/year. If any model-year-specific service bulletins (TSBs) or updates exist outside the posted data, those would need to be consulted from official Honda service resources.
• If you have additional test results, specific symptoms, or a different data source showing complaints or TSBs for P0571 on the 2022–2024 Civic, I can tailor this guide further to align with that information.

If you’d like, I can tailor the diagnostic steps to your exact Civic trim (LX, Sport, EX, etc.) and transmission type (CVT or manual) or help you draft a step-by-step checklist for a shop visit.