HomeTrouble CodesP0574

P0574 — Cruise Control System Vehicle Speed Too High

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P0574 indicates that the cruise control module has detected a vehicle speed signal that is higher than the set cruise speed or exceeds an internal threshold. This usually points to a problem with the speed signal feeding the cruise control system rather than an actual over‑speed condition.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty vehicle speed sensor (VSS) or speed signal circuit

The VSS provides the speed input to the cruise control module; a short, open, or noisy signal can cause the module to interpret speed as too high.

2. Defective cruise control switch or wiring

A stuck or miswired switch can send erroneous commands that the module interprets as an over‑speed condition.

3. Throttle position sensor (TPS) or throttle actuator issue

If the TPS reports an unintended throttle opening, the cruise control may perceive the vehicle as accelerating beyond the set speed.

4. Incorrect speed source selection (e.g., ABS wheel speed sensor)

Some vehicles use wheel speed sensors for cruise control; a faulty sensor can feed an inflated speed value.

5. PCM/ECM software or internal fault

Rarely, a corrupted cruise control logic or internal PCM fault can misinterpret valid speed data; this is considered only after other causes are ruled out.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Scan for all stored codes and note any related sensor codes (VSS, TPS, ABS).
  2. Monitor live data: compare vehicle speed from VSS (or wheel speed) with actual speed using a GPS or scan tool while driving.
  3. Inspect the cruise control switch and its wiring for continuity, proper resistance, and signs of damage or corrosion.
  4. Test the vehicle speed sensor signal (voltage waveform or frequency) at the sensor and at the PCM/cruise control module connector.
  5. If speed signal is valid, check throttle position sensor output for unexpected changes when cruise is active.
  6. If all inputs are correct, consider updating or reflashing the PCM/ECM cruise control software; replace the PCM only as a last resort after confirming hardware is good.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Do I need to replace the PCM/ECM to fix P0574?

No. PCM/ECM failure is an uncommon cause of this code. Most P0574 cases are due to a faulty speed sensor, cruise control switch, or related wiring. Replace the PCM only after those components have been tested and found good.

Can a bad wheel speed sensor trigger P0574 even if the ABS light is off?

Yes. Some vehicles use wheel speed sensors as the speed source for cruise control. A faulty sensor can send an incorrect high speed signal without setting an ABS warning light.

Will clearing the code fix the problem?

Clearing the code only turns off the Check Engine Light; if the underlying speed signal issue remains, the code will return once the cruise control system runs its self‑test.