What it means
Cruise Control Decrease Distance Signal: the control module has detected this fault condition. This affects cruise-control operation.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The cruise-control decrease-distance input tells the adaptive cruise system to shorten the selected gap to the vehicle ahead. The control module checks the switch or stalk signal and sets this code when that input is stuck, missing, or electrically implausible, so the following-distance setting may not decrease.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Cruise control distance-decrease switch or stalk failed or stuck
- Open or short in switch wiring
- Loose or corroded connector
- Fault in the related control module
Symptoms
- Following-distance setting may not decrease when commanded
- Adaptive cruise control may not work as expected
- Check-engine light may come on
How to diagnose it
- Use a scan tool to read freeze-frame data and watch the decrease-distance input while operating its switch; this confirms whether the module sees the command.
- Check whether the following-distance setting changes with the vehicle stationary or under the conditions allowed by the owner's manual.
- Inspect the distance-decrease switch or stalk for sticking, damage, or contamination.
- Check its connector and wiring for loose terminals, corrosion, chafing, or an open or short circuit.
- Test the switch and its signal circuit against the manufacturer's specification, then investigate the related control module only if the input circuit tests correctly.
Common fixes
- Free a sticking switch or stalk and remove contamination where appropriate.
- Reconnect or clean a loose or corroded connector.
- Repair damaged, open, or shorted switch wiring.
- Replace a failed distance-decrease switch or stalk.
- Repair or replace the related control module if circuit testing confirms an internal fault.
Can I keep driving?
You can generally drive without adaptive cruise control, but do not rely on it to maintain or shorten the following gap. Leave extra space and operate the vehicle manually until the function is restored.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.