AutoCodes – Generic – P251E

P251E Code - Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Power Take-Off (PTO) is an upfitter integrated system that allows the user to create an auxiliary power source. Common causes include Faulty Power Take-Off (PTO) Control Module, Power Take-Off Control Module harness is open or shorted, Power Take-Off Control Module circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P251E indicates Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Power Take-Off (PTO) Control Module, Power Take-Off Control Module harness is open or shorted, Power Take-Off Control Module circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 6,782

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 21, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
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Code P251E Description

The Power Take-Off (PTO) is an upfitter integrated system that allows the user to create an auxiliary power source. The PTO system specifically controls engine speed to values higher than normal base idle, PTO load relay engagement, and remote starting and shutdown of the engine. When the operator requests PTO using either the PTO switch or PTO remote, the engine RPM will increase to a default standby speed. The Engine Control Module (ECM) converts the data from the engine speed sensor to a 2 pulses/engine revolution signal. When PTO is engaged, the power take-off control module sends a serial data message to the ECM requesting engine speeds, in response to signals from the PTO switch or remote.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Power Take-Off Control Module detects a fault on the PTO engine shutdown control circuit that is above or below a predetermined voltage threshold.

OBDII Code P251E - Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P251E Code - Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P251E?

Faulty Power Take-Off (PTO) Control Module
Power Take-Off Control Module harness is open or shorted
Power Take-Off Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P251E?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P251E code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific Makes

P251E Buick — Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage
P251E Cadillac — Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage
P251E Chevrolet — Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage
P251E Ford — Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage
P251E GMC — Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.