Skip to content
GTECH Calibration
Portal

P1566

Speed Control Command Switch Out of Range Low.

  • Ford
  • Powertrain
  • Manufacturer code
  • Low severity

How this code is built

P
SystemPowertrain
1
Defined byThe manufacturer
5
AreaVehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs
66
FaultThe specific fault in that area

What it means

P1566 on a Ford means the speed control (cruise control) command switch signal is out of range low. The powertrain control module monitors the voltage from the steering wheel cruise switch circuit, which uses different resistances for each button, and it saw a voltage below the expected window. The cruise control is normally disabled while the fault is present.

Symptoms

  • Cruise control will not engage or set
  • Cruise control buttons on the steering wheel have no effect
  • Cruise control cuts out unexpectedly while driving
  • Cruise warning light or message may show on the dash
  • Engine management light on in some cases

Possible causes

  • Worn or faulty cruise control switch assembly on the steering wheellikely
  • Short to earth or chafed wiring in the switch signal circuitlikely
  • Damaged or worn clockspring (spiral cable) in the steering columnlikely
  • Corroded or loose connector at the switch, clockspring or powertrain control modulepossible
  • Moisture or contamination inside the switch from a spilt drink or damppossible
  • Faulty powertrain control module input circuitrare

How to diagnose

  1. Read all stored and pending codes and note the freeze frame data, then check for any other speed control or brake switch codes
  2. Check whether the cruise buttons are stuck, sticky or visibly damaged, and press each one to feel for normal action
  3. Inspect the steering wheel switch connector and the connectors at the clockspring and powertrain control module for corrosion, bent pins or moisture
  4. Check the wiring along the signal circuit for chafing or pinching, especially around the steering column
  5. Using the wiring diagram for the specific model and year, measure the switch signal voltage with each button pressed and compare with the specification
  6. Measure the switch resistance at each button position and check against specification, taking the airbag safety precautions before removing anything from the steering wheel
  7. Check the signal circuit for a short to earth and for continuity through the clockspring
  8. Clear the code and road test to see if it returns, checking the signal while moving the steering wheel through its full lock

How to fix

  • Replace the cruise control switch assembly if its resistance values are out of specification
  • Repair any chafed or shorted wiring in the signal circuit
  • Replace the clockspring if it has an open or intermittent circuit or a short
  • Clean or repair corroded connectors and secure any loose terminals
  • Replace the powertrain control module only after all wiring and switch faults are ruled out and the input is proven faulty

Can I keep driving?

Low severity

The car is safe to drive as normal, but the cruise control will probably not work. Book it in at your convenience, and be aware that steering wheel airbag work needs proper safety precautions.

Guide written by AI from the code's definition. Confirm with a diagnosis before replacing parts.

This code for other makes

Nearby codes