P0571 Code: Toyota Camry (2018-2024) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

Data note: The provided NHTSA data for 2018-2024 Toyota Camry shows no recalls for this model, and the only owner complaint in the dataset is for code P0442 (not P0571). There are no P0571 complaints in the supplied data. The guide below provides a comprehensive diagnostic approach for P0571 on Camry, using general automotive knowledge and typical Toyota cruise-control system behavior. Actual results will vary by vehicle, maintenance history, and electronics condition.

1. CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• Code: P0571
• Description (general): Cruise Control Input A Circuit Range/Performance. This is a fault in the cruise-control input circuit (often the switch/wiring that tells the cruise control system when you’ve pressed/adjusted the set/ resume/ cancel controls).
• What it means on a Camry: The cruise-control system is detecting an abnormal input signal in the primary cruise-control input circuit (A). This can cause cruise control to fail to engage, disengage unexpectedly, or not operate reliably. In many cases, the engine will run normally; the issue is with the cruise-control system rather than the engine itself.
• Severity and drivability: Moderate. If you rely on cruise control, the feature may be inoperative or behave erratically. If you don’t use cruise control, the car will usually drive normally and the issue may not affect daily drivability. In some cases, the MIL (check engine light) can illuminate, and a diagnostic trouble code will be stored.

2. COMMON CAUSES ON TOYOTA CAMRY

• Faulty brake pedal position switch / brake light switch (often a primary input to the cruise control system).
• Faulty cruise control switch/stalk assembly or its connector.
• Damaged, frayed, or corroded wiring between the brake switch, cruise control switch, and the cruise-control module (CCM) or body control module (BCM).
• Loose, wiggly, or unplugged connectors in the cruise control input wiring harness, especially around the steering column area.
• Wiring harness chafing or damage caused by steering column movement or aftermarket installation.
• Faulty or aging CCM/ECU input circuitry or a software/firmware issue in the cruise-control system.
• Aftermarket cruise-control modifications or accessories interfering with original wiring.
• Related sensor or circuit faults that affect the cruise-control input logic (less common, but possible if the system cross-checks inputs).

3. SYMPTOMS

• Cruise control does not engage when expected.
• Cruise control disengages spontaneously or when pressing the brake pedal.
• Cruise control turns off after hitting a bump or due to a loose connection.
• MIL illuminated with P0571 stored or pending; other cruise-control or P-codes may appear.
• No engine performance impact beyond the cruise-control feature (typical), unless accompanied by other codes.
• In some cases, the vehicle may experience intermittent cruise-control operation, especially on rough roads or with a loose connector.

4. DIAGNOSTIC STEPS
   Note: Start with a thorough code read and freeze-frame data. Document any related codes (P0570, P0572, P0573, P0574, or P0500 for vehicle speed input, etc.).

• Step 1: Verify and document

  • Read P0571 with a scan tool and note freeze-frame data: ignition status, vehicle speed, brake pedal position (if shown), and whether cruise control was active.
  • Check for related codes (P0570–P0574 family, P0500 or other inputs). Clear codes after noting data and perform a short test drive to reproduce if possible.

• Step 2: Visual inspection

  • Inspect the brake pedal switch (brake light switch) and its mounting for proper position and operation.
  • Check the cruise-control switch/stalk for physical wear, sticking, or poor connector seating.
  • Inspect wiring harnesses in the steering column area and along the vehicle’s harness paths for chafing, insulation damage, pin corrosion, or loose connectors, especially near the clock spring, steering wheel, and underdash areas.
  • Verify that brake lights illuminate when the brake pedal is pressed (a quick functional test is to have a helper press the brake while you observe the lights).

• Step 3: Electrical tests

  • Brake switch test: With ignition ON (engine OFF if required by the vehicle’s service procedure), test for proper switch operation with a multimeter or test light. Verify the switch provides a solid ground or supply depending on design when the brake is pressed/unpressed (per the factory wiring diagram).
  • Cruise-control switch test: Check continuity and proper operation of the cruise-control stalk circuit when toggled (ON/SET/RES/CAN). Ensure connectors are clean and locked.
  • Harness tests: Inspect for continuity and proper resistance on the input circuit between the brake switch, cruise switch, and CCM/BCM. Look for damaged wires, opens, or shorts to ground or power.
  • Ground and power integrity: Confirm the CCM/BCM has solid ground and the supply voltage remains stable (voltage drop tests can help identify a marginal ground or poor power feed).

• Step 4: Functional checks

  • With key ON (and vehicle stationary if required by procedure), command the cruise control to engage (SET) and observe input signals. A scan tool with real-time data can show the switch input states and whether the CCM registers the input correctly when you operate the brake or cruise switch.
  • If the vehicle is equipped with a clock spring, ensure it is not damaged or worn, as it can affect steering-column inputs including cruise-control signals.

• Step 5: Related systems check

  • Vehicle speed input: If the system cross-references vehicle speed, verify the speedometer is accurate and the speed sensor is functioning. A faulty VSS can sometimes complicate cruise-control logic.
  • BCM/ECU software: In some cases, software glitches can trigger P0571. Ensure the vehicle’s software is up to date (note: this step may require dealer-level access).

• Step 6: Reproduce and isolate

  • Attempt to reproduce the fault on a test drive, noting road conditions and whether the fault occurs more often with a particular input (brake press, steering wheel input, rough roads).
  • If the fault is intermittent, focus on connectors that are known to flex or move during driving (steering column connectors, clock spring area, under-dash harness).

• Step 7: Repairs or replacements

  • If brake switch is out of spec or misadjusted, replace or adjust and retest.
  • If cruise-control switch/stalk is faulty, replace and test.
  • If wiring harness shows damage, repair or replace the affected section and re-test.
  • If CCM/BCM/ECU input circuitry is faulty, consider replacement, reprogramming, or software update as per the dealer or qualified shop.
  • After any repair, clear codes and perform a road test to confirm the issue is resolved.

• Step 8: Documentation

  • Record all findings, parts replaced, and the vehicle’s response after repair. If the issue persists, consider consulting a Toyota dealer for possible factory-level diagnostics or software updates.

5. RELATED CODES

• P0570: Cruise Control Input Range/Performance (general family)
• P0572: Cruise Control Input B Circuit Range/Performance (family)
• P0573, P0574: Additional cruise-control input circuit codes in some systems
• Other related codes may include P0500 (Vehicle Speed Sensor) or P0562/P0563 (Power/Voltage) if the vehicle’s electrical system is unstable or there are additional circuit faults
  Note: The exact code set can vary by model year and software version. If multiple P0 codes appear, address the root cause of the input circuit faults first.

6. REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)
   Prices are approximate and vary by region, labor rate, dealer vs independent shop, trim level, and whether parts are OEM or aftermarket.

• Brake pedal switch (brake light switch) replacement

  • Parts: $15–$60
  • Labor: $30–$100
  • Estimated total: $45–$160

• Cruise control switch/stalk replacement

  • Parts: $90–$350
  • Labor: $60–$150
  • Estimated total: $150–$500

• Wiring harness repair (short section or connector repair)

  • Parts: $0–$60 (if only a connector or repair sleeve)
  • Labor: $100–$350
  • Estimated total: $100–$410

• Sensor/Module replacement (CCM/BCM/ECU) or software update

  • Parts: $400–$1,200+ (depending on module and whether it’s dealer-installed)
  • Labor: $150–$350
  • Estimated total: $550–$1,550+

• Reprogramming or software update

  • Parts: typically included in service charge; software license cost may apply
  • Labor: $50–$150
  • Estimated total: $50–$250

• Miscellaneous diagnostics

  • Additional labors for extensive wiring tests or multiple component replacements
  • Estimated total: $100–$500

Important notes:

• Costs can be higher if multiple components are involved or if a dealer-grade diagnosis is required.
• If no fault is found in the cruise-control input circuit after inspection, there may be a need for a more comprehensive electrical system diagnostic, which can add to the cost and time.
• The 2018-2024 Camry line can have variations by trim and market; the described costs are typical ranges and may differ.

7. DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY possibilities (with caveats):
  • Basic brake switch test and adjustment are feasible for many enthusiasts.
  • Visual inspection of the brake switch, stalk, and obvious wiring harness faults can be done safely with main battery disconnected when necessary.
  • Using a multimeter to verify brake switch operation and basic continuity on the cruise-control input circuit is doable with the correct wiring diagram.
• When to seek a professional:
  • If you do not have a wiring diagram and the ability to safely test automotive electrical circuits.
  • If the fault is intermittent or involves the clock spring or steering column wiring, which can be complex and require specialized tools.
  • If a module replacement (CCM/BCM/ECU) or software update is required.
  • If you are not comfortable with handling airbag-related steering components or risk of accidental airbag deployment exists.

8. PREVENTION

• Keep brake lights functioning properly; a non-working brake light switch can cause cruise-control logic to misbehave and trigger faults.
• Periodically inspect wiring in the steering column area and underdash harnesses for signs of wear or chafing, especially if you’ve had steering work done or aftermarket installations.
• Avoid rough driving conditions that could loosen connectors or damage wiring; avoid carrying aftermarket devices that interfere with the cruise-control input circuits.
• Keep the vehicle software up to date if recommended by Toyota; some cruise-control faults can be resolved with a software update.
• If your vehicle frequently sees bumps or steering-wheel movement (e.g., delivery vehicles), periodic inspection of the clock spring area can prevent intermittent input faults.

Recalls note:

• No recalls found in NHTSA database for the specified period/model in the provided data. If you are diagnosing a real Camry with P0571, verify locally for any updates or TSBs that may not be captured in the dataset.

Data limitations:

• The provided dataset contains only one owner complaint (P0442) and no P0571 records; therefore, prevalence statistics for P0571 on 2018-2024 Camry cannot be inferred from this data. The diagnostic guide above uses general automotive knowledge and standard diagnostic practices for P0571 applicable to Camry models in this era.

If you’d like, I can tailor this guide to a specific Camry trim or walk you through a step-by-step diagnostic checklist with the exact wiring diagram references and expected resistance/voltage values for the brake switch and cruise-control input lines.