If your Nissan has triggered the P1564 diagnostic trouble code, it means the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system has detected a malfunction in the ASCD steering switch circuit—the buttons on your steering wheel that control cruise control functions. This is a Nissan-specific code that affects the cruise control system’s ability to receive commands from the steering wheel controls. While this is a low-severity issue, it prevents you from using cruise control safely and should be diagnosed and repaired promptly.
What Does P1564 Mean?
P1564 is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code used exclusively by Nissan. The code stands for “ASCD Steering Switch Circuit” malfunction. ASCD is Nissan’s terminology for their Automatic Speed Control Device, which is their version of cruise control.
This code indicates that the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) has detected an electrical problem in the steering wheel switch circuit that controls cruise control functions. The steering wheel switches allow drivers to set, increase, decrease, and cancel cruise control—when these switches or their wiring fail, the ECM cannot receive the proper signals and logs this fault code.
The P1564 code is specific to Nissan vehicles and will not appear on other manufacturers’ vehicles. It is considered a low-severity code because it doesn’t affect engine performance, emissions, or vehicle drivability—only the convenience feature of cruise control.
Common Symptoms
- Cruise control won’t engage: The SET button on the steering wheel doesn’t activate cruise control
- Cruise control buttons unresponsive: Some or all steering wheel cruise control buttons don’t work
- Check Engine Light: The malfunction indicator lamp illuminates on the dashboard
- Intermittent cruise control operation: Cruise control works sporadically or only sometimes
- Inability to adjust cruise speed: The +/- buttons don’t increase or decrease set speed
- Cruise control cancels unexpectedly: The system disengages without driver input
- No response to CANCEL button: Cannot manually disengage cruise control from the steering wheel
Possible Causes
- Worn or defective steering wheel switch (most common): The cruise control buttons on the steering wheel wear out over time due to repeated use. Internal contacts may become corroded or damaged, preventing proper signal transmission to the ECM.
- Damaged wiring or connectors: The wiring harness connecting the steering wheel switches to the ECM may be frayed, corroded, or disconnected. Connectors can become loose or corroded, breaking the circuit.
- Steering wheel slip ring failure: The slip ring assembly that maintains electrical contact between the steering wheel and the vehicle’s wiring harness may be worn or damaged.
- Corroded switch contacts: Moisture or corrosion inside the steering wheel switch assembly can prevent proper electrical contact.
- ECM software issue: Rarely, a software glitch or calibration problem in the engine control module may cause false P1564 codes.
- Broken internal switch wiring: The internal wiring within the steering wheel switch assembly may be broken or loose.
- Faulty ASCD control module: The dedicated cruise control module (if equipped) may have internal electrical faults.
Diagnostic Steps
Step 1: Verify the Code and Symptoms
Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm code P1564 is present. Note whether the check engine light is constant or intermittent. Test all steering wheel cruise control buttons (SET, CANCEL, +, -) to determine which functions are not working.
Step 2: Visual Inspection
Inspect the steering wheel for any visible damage to the cruise control buttons. Look for cracks, loose buttons, or signs of water damage. Check the wiring harness beneath the steering column for any visible damage, corrosion, or disconnected connectors. Look specifically at the connector that joins the steering wheel to the main vehicle harness.
Step 3: Test Steering Wheel Switch Continuity
Disconnect the steering wheel switch connector (located under the steering column). Using a multimeter set to continuity mode, test each switch button to determine if it completes a circuit when pressed. A lack of continuity indicates a faulty switch that needs replacement.
Step 4: Check Wiring Harness Continuity
With the steering wheel switch connector still disconnected, test the wiring harness side of the connector for continuity to the ECM. If continuity is broken, there is a wiring issue that needs repair or replacement.
Step 5: Inspect Connectors for Corrosion
Examine all connectors in the steering wheel circuit for corrosion, moisture, or loose pins. Clean corroded connectors with electrical contact cleaner and a soft brush. Ensure all pins are fully seated and making proper contact.
Step 6: Test Slip Ring Assembly (if accessible)
If your vehicle’s steering wheel is removable, you may be able to access and test the slip ring assembly. This component maintains electrical contact as the steering wheel rotates. Look for visible wear, corrosion, or damage.
Step 7: Clear the Code and Test Drive
After repairs, use your OBD-II scanner to clear the P1564 code. Take a test drive and attempt to use all cruise control functions. If the code does not return, the repair was successful. If the code returns immediately, further diagnosis is needed.
Repair Cost Estimates
DIY Repairs:
- Steering wheel switch replacement: $50–$150 (parts only)
- Wiring harness repair or replacement: $30–$200 (parts only)
- Connector cleaning and repair: $0–$50 (minimal parts)
Professional Repair Estimates:
- Steering wheel switch replacement: $200–$400 (including labor)
- Wiring harness repair: $300–$600 (including labor)
- Complete steering wheel replacement: $600–$1,200 (if switch is integrated)
- Slip ring assembly replacement: $400–$800 (including labor)
- Diagnostic service: $100–$150 (typically waived if repair is performed)
Cost Factors: Labor rates vary by location and dealership. Nissan dealerships typically charge more than independent shops. Some vehicles have integrated steering wheel switches that require complete steering wheel replacement, significantly increasing costs.
Can I Still Drive?
Safety Assessment: Low Severity
Yes, you can safely drive your vehicle with code P1564 active. This code only affects the cruise control system and does not impact engine performance, braking, steering, or any other critical safety systems. Your vehicle will operate normally in all other respects.
Driving Recommendations:
- You can continue driving normally, but you’ll need to manually control your speed without cruise control
- On long highway drives, you may experience increased driver fatigue without cruise control assistance
- The check engine light will remain illuminated until the code is repaired
- Have the issue diagnosed and repaired at your earliest convenience to restore full functionality
- Do not ignore the code indefinitely—while not dangerous, it indicates a system malfunction that should be addressed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is P1564 a serious code?
A: No, P1564 is a low-severity code. It only affects the cruise control system and does not impact engine performance, emissions, or vehicle safety. You can safely drive your vehicle, but you should have it repaired to restore cruise control functionality.
Q: Can I fix P1564 myself?
A: If you have electrical troubleshooting experience and basic tools, you may be able to diagnose and repair the issue yourself. Testing the steering wheel switch with a multimeter and cleaning corroded connectors are tasks a mechanically inclined owner can perform. However, if the steering wheel switch needs replacement, you may need special tools to safely remove the airbag and steering wheel. If you’re uncomfortable working with airbag systems, professional service is recommended.
Q: Why does my cruise control work sometimes but not always?
A: Intermittent cruise control operation typically indicates a loose or corroded connector, or a failing steering wheel switch with degraded internal contacts. These components may work when the connection is good but fail when vibration or temperature changes affect the connection. This is why cleaning connectors and replacing the switch often resolves intermittent issues.
Q: Will P1564 affect my vehicle’s fuel economy or emissions?
A: No, P1564 does not affect fuel economy or emissions. The cruise control system is separate from the engine management and emissions systems. Your vehicle will pass emissions testing even with this code active, though you may see slightly different fuel economy due to manual speed control variations.