P0571 Code: Dodge Charger (2021-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

No recalls found in NHTSA database

Note on data limits: The provided real data for 2021–2023 Dodge Charger shows no NHTSA owner complaints and no recalls for the P0571 issue. This means there is no model-year–specific NHTSA record to cite. The diagnostic guide below uses general automotive knowledge for P0571 and common Dodge Charger considerations, but it does not reflect any Dodges’ official TSBs or documented NHTSA complaints beyond what’s stated. If you have a dealer or shop bulletin you want included, share it and I’ll incorporate it.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• What P0571 means:

  • P0571 is the Powertrain/On-Board Diagnostics code for a Cruise Control Input Range/Performance issue (Cruise Control Input Circuit Range/Performance). In practice, this means the system that sends the “cruise control engaged” signal is reading out of expected range or a poor/erratic input is occurring. The result is that cruise control may not engage reliably, or it may disengage unexpectedly.
  • In most modern vehicles, cruise control inputs come from a combination of signals: brake switch, cruise stalk/buttons, and speed information (Vehicle Speed Sensor or CAN data). If any of these inputs are off, the PCM/TCM/BCM may set P0571.

• Severity in practical terms:

  • Not typically a safety-critical propulsion fault by itself, but it disables or destabilizes a commonly used feature (cruise control). In some situations it can coincide with other drivetrain or wiring faults, which can affect driveability or signaling to the ECU.
  • Because there were no stated recalls or owner complaints in the provided data, this guide treats P0571 as a diagnostic target with potential electrical/electronic-fault roots rather than a known mass-failure scenario for this model year.

COMMON CAUSES ON DODGE CHARGER

• Faulty or misadjusted brake pedal/brake light switch

  • The brake switch provides a brake-active signal that the cruise control uses to disengage when braking. If the switch is stuck on, off, misadjusted, or has worn contacts, it can cause erroneous input to the cruise control circuit.

• Faulty cruise control stalk switch or cruise control module

  • The switch that sends “on/off” and set/accelerate signals or the cruise control module itself can develop intermittent faults, leading to abnormal cruise control inputs.

• Damaged or corroded wiring and connectors

  • Wiring between the brake switch, cruise control switch, and the control modules (PCM/TCM/BCM) can suffer from wear, abrasion, moisture, or corrosion, causing intermittent signals or CAN bus data errors.

• Vehicle Speed Signal (VSS) issues or CAN data mismatch

  • Although P0571 is primarily a cruise-control input issue, inconsistent or distorted speed data can contribute to a perceived input range problem, especially on CAN-networked vehicles. A failing VSS or wiring can create input irregularities that trigger P0571 in conjunction with other signals.

• CAN bus or module communication problems

  • Faulty communication between the BCM, PCM, TCM, or cruise control components can generate out-of-range inputs or misinterpret signals.

• Aftermarket devices or modifications

  • Non-OEM cruise-control modifications, throttle controllers, or reprogramming can interfere with the original input signals and trigger P0571.

• Electrical system issues

  • Low or unstable battery voltage, poor grounding, or electrical noise can cause sensors and control modules to misread inputs and set P0571.

• Fuses, relays, or grounds

  • A blown fuse or poor ground can disrupt cruise control circuitry, producing the fault.

SYMPTOMS

• Cruise control won’t engage or will disengage shortly after engagement.
• Cruise indicator light on the dash may illuminate or flash.
• Intermittent or persistent P0571 DTC with no other obvious drivability symptoms.
• In some cases, related inputs (brake pedal feel, brake lights behavior) may be abnormal.
• Possible accompanying codes such as P0570, P0572–P0574 (cruise input variations) or P0500 (vehicle speed sensor) may appear.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Prepare with a basic OBD-II scanner capable of live data, freeze-frame data, and reading CAN/live inputs.

Step 0: Confirm the code and note conditions

• Use the scanner to confirm P0571 is present and record freeze-frame data: vehicle speed at time of failure, brake switch status, cruise control status, RPM, and any other active codes.
• Check for additional related codes (P0570–P0574, P0500–P0502, U-codes for CAN comms).

Step 1: Verify no external causes

• Ensure the vehicle’s battery is healthy and charging correctly (measured voltage around 12.6–12.8 V engine off, 13.5–14.8 V with engine running). A weak battery or charging glitch can create spurious sensor readings.

Step 2: Inspect the brake pedal switch and related wiring

• Inspect the brake pedal switch for proper operation and adjustment. With the brake pedal at rest, brake lights should be off; with the pedal pressed, brake lights should illuminate.
• Test continuity and/or switch signal with a multimeter while moving the pedal. Check for sticky or intermittent contacts.
• Inspect wiring harnesses and connectors to the brake switch for corrosion, loose pins, or damaged insulation. Look for signs of water intrusion under the dash.

Step 3: Inspect the cruise control switch/stalk and cruise control module

• Check for physical damage or stuck inputs on the stalk. If accessible, test switch operation with a scan tool or by watching the input signal in live data.
• If you have access to a vehicle-specific service manual or dealer diagnostic tool, verify that the cruise control input signals are being read and reported correctly by the BCM/ECU.

Step 4: Check Vehicle Speed Signal (VSS) and related inputs

• Use a live-data readout to observe VSS while the vehicle is stationary and then during a road test (verify the VSS value changes smoothly with actual speed; there should be a consistent increase with speed rather than erratic jumps).
• If VSS data looks suspect, inspect or replace the VSS sensor and its wiring. A faulty VSS can cause misreadings that affect cruise control logic.

Step 5: Check CAN bus and related fuses/relays

• Inspect fuses for the cruise control circuit and any related modules (PCM/BCM/TCM). Replace blown fuses as needed.
• If the vehicle uses CAN for cruise control signals, check for obvious CAN bus wiring issues (chafed wires, improper grounding, or damaged connectors). Look for U-codes indicating lost or incorrect communications.

Step 6: Look for aftermarket interference

• If any aftermarket cruise-control devices, performance tuning modules, or throttle controllers are installed, disconnect them and test again. These devices can introduce abnormal signals that trigger P0571.

Step 7: Check for additional driveability issues

• If the vehicle runs poorly otherwise, address any engine misfires, idle issues, or sensor faults that could indirectly contribute to diagnostic confusion.

Step 8: After repairs, recheck and recode

• Clear the codes and re-test. If the fault remains, perform deeper diagnostics with advanced scan tools or consult a dealer with Dodge-specific diagnostics.

RELATED CODES

• P0570: Cruise Control System Malfunction
• P0572: Cruise Control Input Range/Performance (Low)
• P0573: Cruise Control Input Range/Performance (High)
• P0574: Cruise Control Input Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
• P0500: Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) Malfunction or Range
• P0501: Vehicle Speed Sensor Carriage Malfunction (if applicable)
• P0502: Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance (if applicable)
• CAN-related U-codes (e.g., U0100, U0101, U0121) indicating lost or incorrect communications between PCM/BCM/TCM and other modules (these can accompany P0571 in some cases)

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices are ballpark estimates for common service areas in the U.S. and will vary by region, vehicle condition, and labor rate.

• Brake pedal switch replacement

  • Parts: $15–$60
  • Labor: 0.5–1.0 hours
  • Estimated total: $85–$180

• Cruise control stalk/switch replacement

  • Parts: $60–$350
  • Labor: 1–2 hours
  • Estimated total: $150–$500

• Cruise control module replacement (if separate module is used from the stalk)

  • Parts: $150–$500
  • Labor: 1–3 hours
  • Estimated total: $300–$1,200

• Vehicle Speed Sensor replacement (VSS)

  • Parts: $20–$80
  • Labor: 1–1.5 hours
  • Estimated total: $140–$230

• Wiring harness/connector repair or replacement (dash to module)

  • Parts: $10–$50 (connectors, loom repair if needed)
  • Labor: 1–4 hours depending on access
  • Estimated total: $120–$600

• Fuses/relays replacement

  • Parts: $5–$20
  • Labor: 0.1–0.3 hours
  • Estimated total: $20–$60

• Software/ECU reflash or updates (dealer diagnostic charge may apply)

  • Parts: $0–$50 (software update often included in service)
  • Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours
  • Estimated total: $60–$250

• Diagnostic fee (if done at shop)

  • Typically $80–$150 for initial diagnostic

Notes:

• If the root cause is a combination (e.g., intermittent brake switch and a slipping CAN signal), costs can escalate due to multiple components needing service.
• Some shops may quote flat diagnostic fees plus a separate repair estimate; always request a written estimate before proceeding.
• These price ranges reflect 2025 market conditions and can vary by region and vehicle condition.

DIY vs PROFESSIONAL

• DIY suitability:

  • Brake switch inspection/replacement: Often doable with basic hand tools; a common DIY task.
  • Visual inspection and simple wiring checks: Safe for most DIY enthusiasts.
  • Live data checks on VSS and some CAN data may require a more advanced scan tool, but many enthusiasts can monitor basic signals and verify brake switch operation.

• When to go professional:

  • Intermittent CAN bus issues, module communications, or suspected ECU/TCM faults typically require professional-grade scan tools, factory wiring diagrams, and potential module reprogramming.
  • If you’re not comfortable with diagnosing electrical harnesses, replacing modules, or validating live CAN signals, a trained technician is advised.
  • In modern vehicles, many P0571 cases involve multiple signals; diagnosing with the proper dashboards and software helps avoid misdiagnosis.

• What to bring to a shop:

  • A detailed symptom description (when it occurs, whether it triggers with braking, speed, or specific cruise-control inputs).
  • The freeze-frame data from your OBD-II scan (vehicle speed, brake status, etc.).
  • Any recent work, aftermarket devices, or battery/charging issues noted.

PREVENTION

• Maintain a healthy electrical system

  • Keep the battery and charging system in spec; clean grounds and secure battery terminals.
  • Check for parasitic draws that could drain the battery and cause voltage dips.

• Regular brake switch health

  • Ensure the brake pedal switch is correctly adjusted and free of corrosion. A misadjusted switch is a common cause of cruise input faults.

• Be cautious with aftermarket devices

  • If you’ve installed aftermarket cruise-control devices, throttle controllers, or CAN-modifying accessories, verify compatibility or remove them to test if P0571 resolves.

• Protect wiring and connectors

  • Inspect vulnerable harness routes (around the dash, under the pedal area) for wear, moisture intrusion, or loose connectors, especially after exposure to water or after-wash events.

• Software and updates

  • When dealer updates or reprograms modules for reliability, ensure you’re using the latest firmware recommended by the manufacturer. Since this guide cannot cite specific TSBs for the data provided, verify with your dealer for any vehicle-specific software advisories.

• Safe driving habits

  • While P0571 is not a direct safety fault, maintaining proper cruise control usage and ensuring the vehicle’s systems are reliable helps prevent unexpected enable/disable events.

Closing notes on data limits

• The dataset provided shows no NHTSA owner complaints and no recalls for the 2021–2023 Dodge Charger related to P0571. This means there isn’t model-year–specific NHTSA documentation to cite for this issue within the given data. The diagnostic guide above uses general automotive knowledge about P0571 and typical Dodge Charger systems, but it does not reference any official TSBs or documented NHTSA case data beyond what’s stated.