P0573 on 2012-2018 Dodge Charger: Causes and Fixes for Brake Switch Faults

What's Unique About the 2012-2018 Dodge CHARGER

For the 2012-2018 Dodge Charger (LD generation), particularly 2012 models with the 6.4L engine built before April 29, 2012, this code is frequently not caused by a bad part. Dodge issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #18-020-13) acknowledging that an erroneous P0573 code can be set due to a software glitch in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). [TSB #18-020-13, 16] In these cases, the only fix is to have a dealer reprogram the PCM with updated software, making a simple part replacement ineffective.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Cruise control is inoperative or will not engage.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is inoperative (if equipped). [TSB #1811822]
• Check Engine Light is on.
• Traction control or ABS warning light may be illuminated.
• Brake lights may not work correctly (either stuck on or not illuminating at all).
• In some cases, may interfere with the push-to-start sequence, requiring multiple button presses.

Most Likely Causes

1. PCM Software Requires Update 🔴 High Probability Dodge released TSB #18-020-13 specifically for an 'Erroneous P0573' code on 2012 models with the 6.4L engine. This should be the first consideration for applicable vehicles before any parts are replaced.
   How to confirm: A Dodge dealership or a qualified shop with OEM tools (like a wiTECH scanner) can check the current software version of the PCM against your vehicle's VIN to see if the update applies.
   Typical fix: Selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software. This is often referred to as a 'flash'.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Faulty Brake Light Switch 🔴 High Probability The brake light switch is a high-use electromechanical component that can wear out. It can also be physically dislodged by a driver's foot, which is a commonly reported issue.
   How to confirm: First, physically check if the switch is securely mounted on the brake pedal arm. Often it can be kicked and dislodged. If secure, use a scan tool to monitor the brake switch's live data; the status should change when the pedal is pressed. If it doesn't, test the switch directly with a multimeter 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix P0573 circuit codes for continuity.
   Typical fix: Replace the brake light switch located on the brake pedal arm. This involves a simple twist-and-lock mechanism. 🎬 See this quick walkthrough for replacing the brake switch
   Est. part cost: $25-$40
3. Wiring or Connector Issue 🟡 Medium Probability The wiring near the brake pedal can be kicked, stretched, or damaged from foot traffic. Connectors can become loose or corroded, especially if there has been a water leak in the cabin.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector at the brake light switch for any signs of damage, chafing, or loose pins. Use a multimeter to check for voltage and ground at the connector according to the service manual.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of wiring or clean/re-seat the connector.
   Est. part cost: $5-$20
4. Blown Fuse ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Check the vehicle's fuse box (typically in the engine bay and/or trunk) for any fuses related to the brake light, cruise control, or ABS systems.
   Typical fix: Replace the blown fuse. If it blows again, a short circuit is present that needs to be diagnosed.
   Est. part cost: $1-$5

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Body Control Module (BCM): This is rare. Before condemning a control module, all other possibilities (software, switch, wiring) must be exhaustively ruled out. The TSBs note that P0573 often appears with U0140 (Lost Communication With BCM), which could indicate a module issue. [TSB #18-070-16, TSB #18-102-15] A replacement PCM can cost between $750 and $816.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan for all diagnostic trouble codes. Note if U0140 or P0300 are present, as this points towards issues documented in TSBs.
2. Check for applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), especially #18-020-13 for 2012 6.4L models, to see if a PCM reflash is the recommended fix.
3. Visually inspect the brake light switch above the brake pedal. Check if it has been physically kicked or knocked out of its mounting bracket.
4. Check the operation of the brake lights. If they do not work or are stuck on, the problem is more likely the switch, fuse, or wiring.
5. Use a scan tool with live data to observe the 'Brake Pedal Status'. It should toggle between 'Released' and 'Pressed' as you press and release the brake pedal.
6. If the live data does not change, test the switch itself with a multimeter. It should show a change in continuity when actuated.
7. If the switch tests good, check for proper voltage and ground at the switch's electrical connector using a wiring diagram.
8. If the switch and wiring are confirmed to be good, the issue is likely the PCM software or, in rare cases, a faulty PCM.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Brake Light Switch / Stop Light Switch (OEM #56038969AC (supersedes 56038969AA)) — This is the most common hardware failure for this code. It is located on the brake pedal support and sends the signal to the PCM. The original part number has been updated.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products (SMP), Duralast
  OEM price range: $25-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$25

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U0140 — Lost Communication With Body Control Module. Several TSBs for the Charger list these codes together, suggesting a potential network or module communication fault can trigger the P0573. [TSB #18-070-16, TSB #18-102-15]
• P0300 — Multiple Cylinder Misfire. This code was also cited alongside P0573 in TSBs, possibly indicating a broader software issue affecting multiple systems that a PCM flash is designed to correct. [TSB #18-070-16, TSB #18-011-15 REV. A]

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-020-13: Flash: Erroneous P0573- Brake Switch 1 Stuck Off
• 1811822: P0573 - Brake Switch 1 Stuck Off, causing Adaptive Cruise Control to be inoperative.
• 18-070-16: Lists P0573 along with U0140 and P0300 as potential codes.
• 18-102-15: Lists P0573 with U0140, indicating a potential communication issue.
• 18-011-15 REV. A: Also lists P0573 with U0140 and P0300.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A software glitch in the PCM can erroneously trigger the P0573 code. TSB #18-020-13 was released to address this with a software update, specifically for 2012 models with the 6.4L engine built before April 29, 2012. [TSB #18-020-13, 16]
• On models with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), this code will cause the ACC system to become inoperative. [TSB #1811822]
• The physical location of the switch makes it susceptible to being dislodged by the driver's foot, which can mimic the symptoms of a failed switch.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Brake Switch Signal Circuit Resistance — expected: Below 10.0 Ohms between the PCM C2 harness connector and the Brake Switch harness connector.. Failure: Resistance above 10.0 Ohms indicates an open or high-resistance circuit.
• Brake Switch Circuit Voltage (Short to Voltage Test) — expected: Below 1.0 Volt at the PCM C2 harness connector with the switch disconnected.. Failure: Voltage above 1.0 Volt indicates a short to voltage in the circuit.
• Brake Pedal Position Sensor Signal Voltage — expected: Varies between 0 and 5 volts as the pedal is pressed.. Failure: A constant 5 volts indicates a short to voltage or a mis-installed sensor; a constant 0 volts indicates a short to ground.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH: PCM Reprogramming/Flash — Used to apply the software update specified in TSB #18-020-13 for an erroneous P0573 code on applicable 2012 models. The wiTECH software must be release 13.03 or higher.
• Professional Scan Tool (e.g., Autel, Snap-on, wiTECH): Live Data Monitoring: 'Brake Pedal Status' or 'Brake Switch Signal' — To verify if the PCM is receiving the correct signal from the brake switch. The status should change from 'Released' to 'Pressed' when the brake pedal is depressed. This is a primary step to confirm switch functionality without disassembly.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Brake Light Switch Connector — At the top of the brake pedal arm, under the driver's side dashboard.. This is the primary connection point for the switch. It's susceptible to being kicked, dislodged, or having its wiring damaged, causing a P0573 code.
• PCM C2 Harness Connector — At the Powertrain Control Module, typically located in the engine bay on the passenger side.. This is the destination for the brake switch signal. Diagnostic procedures require checking for opens, shorts, or high resistance between this connector and the switch connector.
• Ground Circuit (Z912) — Part of the brake light switch harness.. A diagnostic step for a related brake switch code (P1573) on older models involves checking this ground circuit for an open or high resistance, which is a relevant diagnostic principle for P0573 as well.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube - Dallas Auto Diag (2018 Dodge Charger) — No start, multiple communication codes, and an active C0042 code (Brake Pedal Position Sensor Circuit Short to Battery). Brake lights were stuck on, and the car would start without pressing the brake.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The owner had replaced the brake pedal position sensor, but the problem persisted.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The replacement sensor had been installed incorrectly. The sensor's actuator arm was on the wrong side of the brake pedal's stopper tab, causing it to be fully depressed at all times and sending a constant 5-volt signal. Reinstalling the sensor correctly resolved the issue.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 56038969AA → 56038969AC — Standard part revision by the manufacturer for improvement or supplier change.
  Heads up: The parts are interchangeable. 56038969AC is the current replacement for the original part.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2012: Models with the 6.4L engine built before April 29, 2012, are subject to TSB #18-020-13, which identifies an erroneous P0573 code caused by a software glitch. Later models are less likely to have this specific software issue.
• 2015-2018: The Dodge Charger received a significant interior and exterior facelift for the 2015 model year. While the fundamental function of the brake light switch is the same, dashboard components and some wiring connectors may differ from the 2012-2014 models, potentially affecting access to the switch.