AutoCodes – GMC – P2601 GMC

P2601 GMC Code - Auxiliary Coolant Pump Performance

Quick Answer

The auxiliary coolant pump and cooling fan system provides a measure of prevention against fuel vaporization due to excessive engine temperatures. Common causes include Faulty Auxiliary Coolant Pump Relay, Blocked pump control passage, Faulty Auxiliary Coolant Pump. 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: P2601 GMC indicates Auxiliary Coolant Pump Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Auxiliary Coolant Pump Relay, Blocked pump control passage, Faulty Auxiliary Coolant Pump.
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 3,339

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 Jan 19, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2601 GMC Description

The auxiliary coolant pump and cooling fan system provides a measure of prevention against fuel vaporization due to excessive engine temperatures. The Engine Control Module (ECM) commands the auxiliary or after boil coolant pump ON when the engine coolant temperature exceeds a calibrated value after engine shut down. The ECM applies ground to the coil side of the auxiliary pump relay. This energizes the coil and applies voltage directly to the pump motor through the switch side of the relay. When the auxiliary coolant pump is activated, coolant is drawn from radiator and pumped into the engine through a tee in the engine coolant inlet pipe. As the colder temperature coolant is drawn into the engine warmer coolant is expelled from the engine and back to the radiator. Removing high temperature coolant from the engine after shut down helps prevent vaporization of the fuel that remains in the fuel injectors and fuel rail during a hot soak.

OBDII Code P2601 GMC - Auxiliary Coolant Pump Performance - AutoCodes.com — P2601 GMC Code - Auxiliary Coolant Pump Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2601 GMC?

Faulty Auxiliary Coolant Pump Relay
Blocked pump control passage
Faulty Auxiliary Coolant Pump
Auxiliary Coolant Pump harness is open or shorted
Auxiliary Coolant Pump circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P2601 GMC?

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 P2601 GMC 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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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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P2601 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2601 mean for a GMC vehicle?

P2601 indicates a problem with the auxiliary coolant pump's performance, suggesting it may not be functioning properly or delivering adequate coolant flow.

2. What are common symptoms of code P2601 in GMC vehicles?

Symptoms may include engine overheating, reduced heater performance, and possible activation of the check engine light.

3. What causes the P2601 code in GMC vehicles?

Common causes include a malfunctioning auxiliary coolant pump, electrical issues such as damaged wiring or connectors, or a failed pump control module.

4. Can I drive my GMC vehicle with the P2601 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it may lead to engine overheating and potential damage to engine components.

5. How is the P2601 code diagnosed in GMC vehicles?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the auxiliary coolant pump for proper operation, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the pump control module.

6. How do you fix the P2601 code on a GMC vehicle?

Repairs may involve replacing the auxiliary coolant pump, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing the pump control module if necessary.

7. What tools are needed to diagnose the P2601 code on a GMC vehicle?

A diagnostic scanner, multimeter for testing electrical connections, and possibly manual tools for pump removal and inspection are commonly required.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P2601 code on a GMC?

Costs vary depending on the issue, but replacing the auxiliary coolant pump can range from $200 to $500, excluding labor costs.

9. Can a faulty auxiliary coolant pump cause engine overheating?

Yes, a malfunctioning auxiliary coolant pump can result in insufficient coolant circulation, leading to engine overheating.

10. Will resetting the check engine light clear the P2601 code permanently?

Resetting the light may temporarily clear the code, but unless the underlying issue is fixed, the code will likely return.

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