What does it mean?
P1553 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Adaptive Cruise Control Signal Circuit .
Symptoms
- Adaptive cruise control is unavailable and a message appears in the instrument cluster
- Cruise disengages by itself and cannot be reset while driving
- Following distance is not maintained and the system does not brake or accelerate for traffic
- Check engine light on, sometimes with additional driver assistance warnings
- Forward collision warning and other radar-based functions are disabled at the same time
- The system may work again after a key cycle and then fail once the vehicle is warm or wet
Likely causes
- Dirt, ice, snow or a thick layer of road film covering the radar sensor face
- Radar sensor knocked out of alignment after a front end impact, bumper removal or towing eye use
- Corroded or unlatched connector at the radar or distance control module
- Open, shorted or high resistance wiring in the signal and communication lines between the radar unit and the PCM
- Blown fuse or a poor ground supplying the adaptive cruise module
- Low system voltage that makes the module drop off the network intermittently
- Internal failure of the adaptive cruise control module
How to fix it
- Scan all modules, not just the engine, and note any faults stored in the radar or driver assistance unit
- Clean the radar cover and the emblem or panel in front of it, and check for aftermarket badges, film or accessories blocking it
- Check whether the front bumper or the radar bracket has been disturbed by previous repair work
- Inspect and reseat the radar connector, looking for green corrosion and water in the housing
- Measure supply voltage, ground and the signal lines at the module with the ignition on
- Carry out the radar alignment procedure after any bumper or suspension work
- Replace the radar module only after wiring, supply and alignment have all been verified