P0578: Cruise Control Multi-Function Input A Circuit Stuck
Cruise Control Multi-Function Input A Circuit Stuck: an electrical fault is present in the circuit. This affects cruise-control operation.
What P0578 means
P0578 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the speed, idle & cruise group. In plain English: the computer found an electrical fault in that circuit: an open, short or bad connection, or a failed component.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Common causes
- 01Stalk button mechanically stuckMost likely
Can I drive with P0578?
Usually yes, for a short time.
The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
Why we rate it moderate
- Turns on the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P0578
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0578. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Check for related codes first
Look for P0590. Related codes often share a cause; a circuit or sensor code usually needs fixing before a performance code like this one.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the cruise control stalk for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Stalk button mechanically stuck. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
P0578 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Basic hand tools; a common first DIY job.
Parts and systems involved
- Cruise control stalk
P0578 FAQ
What does P0578 mean?
P0578 means “Cruise Control Multi-Function Input A Circuit Stuck”. Cruise Control Multi-Function Input A Circuit Stuck: an electrical fault is present in the circuit. This affects cruise-control operation.
Is P0578 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0578 as moderate severity. Usually yes, for a short time. The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
What causes P0578?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Stalk button mechanically stuck. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0578?
Typical labor is about $50–$150 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P0578 myself?
DIY difficulty is easy. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0578 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.