Engine-CodesFord – P0573 2008 Ford Fusion

P0573 2008 Ford Fusion Code - Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High

Quick Answer

The P0573 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2008 Ford Fusion indicates a problem with the Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High. Common causes include Faulty brake switch, Damaged wiring or connectors in the brake switch circuit, Short circuit in the system. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0573 2008 Ford Fusion indicates Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty brake switch, Damaged wiring or connectors in the brake switch circuit, Short circuit in the system.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 11, 2024
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Code P0573 2008 Ford Fusion Description

The P0573 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2008 Ford Fusion indicates a problem with the Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High. The brake switch is a critical component of the vehicle's braking system as it is responsible for activating the brake lights when the brake pedal is pressed. The 'A' circuit high error means that the voltage level in the brake switch circuit is higher than the specified limit, indicating a malfunction in the switch or its wiring.

OBDII Code P0573 2008 Ford Fusion - Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High
P0573 2008 Ford Fusion Code - Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High

Common Causes of P0573 2008 Ford Fusion

  1. Faulty brake switch
  2. Damaged wiring or connectors in the brake switch circuit
  3. Short circuit in the system
  4. Malfunctioning brake light control module
  5. Corrosion or moisture in the brake switch circuit

Symptoms of P0573 2008 Ford Fusion

  1. Brake lights not working or staying on continuously
  2. Inability to shift out of park
  3. ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  4. Cruise control not engaging or disengaging unexpectedly
  5. Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated on the dashboard

How to Fix P0573 2008 Ford Fusion

  1. Begin by locating the brake switch, usually located near the top of the brake pedal.
  2. Inspect the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
  3. Test the brake switch using a multimeter to check for proper voltage levels.
  4. If the brake switch is faulty, replace it with a new one following the manufacturer's guidelines.
  5. Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner and test the brake lights to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Cost to Fix P0573 2008 Ford Fusion

The typical repair costs for addressing the Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High code can range from $50 to $200, depending on the cost of parts and labor. The price of a new brake switch can vary, but it is usually in the range of $20 to $100. Labor costs can range from $30 to $100, depending on the shop's hourly rate and the complexity of the repair. Keep in mind that additional diagnostic time may be necessary to pinpoint the exact cause of the issue, so it's advisable to consult with a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

Tech Notes for P0573 2008 Ford Fusion

Check the bulb and fuse first, if they are good replace the stop lamp switch (it is located behind the brake pedal)

When is the Code Detected?

The P0573 codes is set when the stop light switch signal is too high.

Need more information about the P0573 2008 Ford Fusion code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0573 2008 Ford Fusion Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion?

The common symptoms of code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion include the brake lights staying on continuously, the inability to shift out of park, and the cruise control not working properly.

2. What causes the Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High code (P0573) in a 2008 Ford Fusion?

The most common cause of the Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High code (P0573) in a 2008 Ford Fusion is a malfunctioning brake light switch. Other potential causes include wiring issues or a faulty brake light switch circuit.

3. How can I diagnose the Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High code (P0573) in my 2008 Ford Fusion?

To diagnose the Brake Switch 'A' Circuit High code (P0573) in your 2008 Ford Fusion, you can start by checking the brake light switch for proper operation, inspecting the wiring for any damage, and using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the fault code.

4. Can I still drive my 2008 Ford Fusion with OBDII code P0573?

It is not recommended to drive your 2008 Ford Fusion with OBDII code P0573, as the continuous illumination of the brake lights and potential issues with shifting out of park can pose safety risks. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. How do I repair OBDII code P0573 in my 2008 Ford Fusion?

To repair OBDII code P0573 in your 2008 Ford Fusion, you may need to replace the brake light switch if it is found to be faulty. Additionally, checking and repairing any damaged wiring or circuit issues can help resolve the problem.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion?

Yes, a DIY enthusiast with some automotive knowledge can potentially fix OBDII code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion by following repair guides, utilizing basic tools, and being cautious when working on the brake system.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0573 in my 2008 Ford Fusion make it go away permanently?

Simply resetting the OBDII code P0573 in your 2008 Ford Fusion will not make it go away permanently if the underlying issue, such as a faulty brake light switch or wiring problem, is not addressed and repaired.

8. Is it common for the brake light switch to fail in a 2008 Ford Fusion, causing code P0573?

Yes, it is relatively common for the brake light switch to fail in a 2008 Ford Fusion, leading to the occurrence of code P0573. Over time, the switch may wear out or become misaligned, triggering the high circuit code.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion?

The time it takes to repair OBDII code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the individual's level of experience. On average, the repair process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours.

10. Can code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion trigger other warning lights on the dashboard?

Yes, code P0573 in a 2008 Ford Fusion can potentially trigger other warning lights on the dashboard, such as the ABS light or traction control light, due to the interconnected nature of the vehicle's systems.

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