Quick Answer
B0574 means: B0574 indicates low voltage in the steering wheel control module.
Can I drive with B0574? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe vehicle operation.
Common Questions
What does B0574 mean and how does it affect my car?
B0574 indicates a low voltage issue in the steering wheel control module. This can lead to unresponsive controls, affecting your ability to operate various functions safely while driving. If not fixed, it could disable essential features like cruise control, compromising your vehicle's safety.
What are the most common causes of B0574 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common causes of B0574 include a faulty steering wheel control module, damaged wiring, or issues with the electrical system. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $600 for module replacements, depending on the specific issue and vehicle model.
Can I drive my car with B0574 or should I stop immediately?
While it may be possible to drive your vehicle with B0574, it is not advisable. The malfunctioning steering controls can lead to decreased safety and functionality, especially if adaptive features are disabled. It's best to seek repairs immediately to avoid potential hazards.
How can I diagnose B0574 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for diagnostic trouble codes and view freeze frame data. This will help you understand the circumstances under which the B0574 code was triggered. Follow the app's guidelines to check voltage levels at the steering wheel control module and determine the next steps.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0574?
Common vehicles affected by B0574 include the 2016-2020 Ford Explorer and 2017-2021 Chevrolet Malibu. If your vehicle falls within these models and years, pay close attention to symptoms indicating potential steering control failures.
How can I prevent B0574 from happening again?
To prevent B0574, ensure regular maintenance of your vehicle’s electrical system. Check wiring for wear and tear, keep connections clean, and monitor battery health. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues before they lead to serious problems.
What is B0574?
The B0574 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a problem with the steering wheel control module, specifically concerning low voltage. This is commonly associated with vehicles that have advanced steering features, such as steering wheel-mounted controls for audio, cruise control, or phone operations. When this code triggers, it suggests that the control module isn't receiving adequate voltage, which can lead to malfunctioning steering wheel controls. This can impact not only the operation of your steering wheel functions but can also affect other connected systems. For instance, if your vehicle is equipped with adaptive cruise control or lane assist, the failure of the steering wheel module can disable these features, leading to a less safe driving experience. Vehicles like the 2016-2020 Ford Explorer and 2017-2021 Chevrolet Malibu often report this code due to issues with wiring or the module itself. Ignoring B0574 may lead to further electrical issues or even complete failure of the controls, making it crucial to address promptly.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B0574 is present:
- Steering wheel controls, such as audio or cruise control, become unresponsive or erratic, leading to driver frustration.
- The check engine light or a dedicated steering warning light may illuminate on the dashboard, indicating a malfunction that requires attention.
- Inconsistent operation of connected systems, such as the inability to adjust volume or change tracks while driving, which can be a significant distraction.
- Electrical components, such as the horn or airbag, may also malfunction due to issues with the steering wheel module.
- Driver assistance features, such as lane-keeping or adaptive cruise control, may become disabled, impacting safety.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B0574 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of B0574 is a faulty steering wheel control module, with a likelihood of around 50%. This can occur due to internal electronic failures or manufacturing defects.
- A second potential cause is damaged wiring or connectors associated with the steering wheel controls, which may account for 30% of cases. Road debris, corrosion, or wear can lead to these issues over time.
- Poor battery voltage or problems with the vehicle’s electrical system can also trigger this code, making it essential to check the battery health and connections, accounting for about 15% of cases.
- Less common, but serious causes include problems with the vehicle's main control module, which may cause a ripple effect through the electrical systems. This could lead to broader electrical failures if not addressed.
- Rarely, a software glitch in the vehicle's onboard computer system can result in erroneous readings that trigger the B0574 code.
B0574 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Steering Wheel Control Module Replacement
Replacing the faulty steering wheel control module with a new OEM part.
- Total: $300 - $600
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair
Repairing any damaged wiring or connectors that may be causing the low voltage issue.
- Total: $100 - $250
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for B0574
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B0574 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0574. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the steering wheel control module (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the steering wheel control module (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and any related codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and any related codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the voltage at the steering wheel control module and verify continuity in wiring (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the voltage at the steering wheel control module and verify continuity in wiring (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify operation of the steering wheel controls and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify operation of the steering wheel controls and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that all functions are working correctly and no codes reappear (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that all functions are working correctly and no codes reappear (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Steering Control Module Replacement for 2018 Ford Explorer
Vehicle: 2018 Ford Explorer, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported that steering wheel controls were unresponsive and the check engine light was on.
Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, the B0574 code was confirmed. Visual inspection showed no visible wiring damage, but testing revealed low voltage at the module.
Solution: Replaced the faulty steering wheel control module. Rechecked voltage and cleared the codes.
Cost: $450 (parts: $300 for module, $150 labor)
Result: All steering functions were restored, and the check engine light remained off post-repair.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair for 2017 Chevrolet Malibu
Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, 60,000 miles
Problem: Driver experienced intermittent issues with steering wheel audio controls not responding.
Diagnosis: Diagnosed B0574 using GeekOBD APP. Inspection revealed damaged wiring harness due to wear.
Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and secured all connections.
Cost: $200 (labor: $100, parts: $100 for connectors and wiring)
Result: Controls functioned normally after repair, and there were no further issues.