OBD-II Code P0582 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

P0582 means the cruise control vacuum control circuit has a low voltage signal. This code applies to older vehicles that use engine vacuum to operate the cruise control throttle actuator. The control module is not seeing proper voltage when it commands the vacuum solenoid to engage. Cruise control will not work until this is fixed, but normal driving is not affected.

Affected Models

Vehicles 1996–2010 with vacuum-actuated cruise control
Common in older Ford F-Series and Mustang
Common in older GM trucks and SUVs
Common in older Dodge and Jeep vehicles
Rare on vehicles newer than 2012 which use electronic throttle control

Common Causes

Failed vacuum solenoid valve in the cruise control actuator
Open or broken wire in the cruise control vacuum solenoid circuit
Corroded or loose connector at the cruise control actuator
Blown fuse in the cruise control system
Defective engine control module output driver for the vacuum solenoid

How to Fix It

Check the cruise control fuse in your fuse box. Look up the fuse chart in your owner's manual or the diagram printed inside the fuse box cover.

A blown fuse is the easiest and cheapest fix. Replace with the correct amperage fuse only.
Locate the cruise control vacuum actuator, usually mounted in the engine bay near the firewall. Inspect the wiring connector for corrosion, bent pins, or loose fit.

The actuator looks like a small black canister with vacuum hoses and an electrical connector attached.
Check the vacuum hoses connected to the actuator. Cracked, collapsed, or disconnected vacuum hoses will prevent the actuator from working even if the electrical circuit is fine.

Squeeze the hoses gently. Brittle or cracked rubber means the hose needs to be replaced.
Test the solenoid valve with a multimeter set to resistance. Disconnect the solenoid connector and measure resistance across the solenoid terminals. Compare to spec in your service manual.

A reading of zero ohms (short) or infinite ohms (open) means the solenoid has failed.
Replace the cruise control actuator or solenoid if it tests out of spec. Clear the code and test cruise control at highway speed on a safe stretch of road.

Some vehicles have the solenoid as a separate serviceable part. Others require replacing the entire actuator assembly.

When to Call a Professional

Vacuum-actuated cruise control systems are less common on modern vehicles. If you cannot find the cruise control actuator or trace the vacuum lines, a professional can diagnose this in about an hour. Expect $80 to $200 total depending on whether the solenoid or wiring is at fault.

Frequently Asked Questions

My car is newer — why do I have P0582?

If your vehicle is newer than 2012 or uses electronic throttle control, P0582 may be stored but with a different meaning on your specific vehicle. Some manufacturers use this code for slightly different cruise control circuits. Always check a repair database specific to your vehicle's make and model year.

What does 'vacuum-actuated cruise control' mean?

Older cruise control systems used engine vacuum — the same suction the engine creates — to physically move the throttle plate. A vacuum hose connected to an actuator on the firewall would hold the throttle open at the set speed. Modern vehicles use electronic signals instead, so vacuum cruise control is rare on newer cars.

Can I temporarily bypass the cruise control to see if the engine is OK?

The engine itself is completely unrelated to cruise control operation. P0582 only affects the cruise control system. You can drive normally — just without cruise control — while you arrange the repair.