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P2601 Saturn 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 Saturn 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 3,650
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 19, 2019
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Code P2601 Saturn 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 Saturn - Auxiliary Coolant Pump Performance - AutoCodes.com
P2601 Saturn Code - Auxiliary Coolant Pump Performance
What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2601 Saturn?

  • 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 Saturn?

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 Saturn 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.

Need more information about the P2601 Saturn code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 Saturn Code

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

P2601 indicates an issue with the auxiliary coolant pump’s performance, which helps manage engine or turbocharger temperatures.

2. What are the symptoms of a P2601 code in a Saturn?

Symptoms may include engine overheating, the check engine light turning on, reduced performance, or unusual coolant pump noises.

3. What causes the P2601 code on a Saturn?

Common causes include a faulty auxiliary coolant pump, electrical issues like damaged wiring or a bad connector, or a failed coolant pump relay.

4. Can I drive my Saturn with a P2601 code?

It’s not recommended to drive for long periods, as overheating could occur, potentially causing severe engine or turbocharger damage.

5. How do I diagnose a P2601 code in my Saturn?

Start by checking the auxiliary coolant pump, inspecting wiring and connectors, testing the relay, and verifying the pump's operation.

6. How is the P2601 code typically fixed on a Saturn?

Repairs may involve replacing the auxiliary coolant pump, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning or replacing connectors, or replacing a faulty relay.

7. Does a P2601 code always mean the pump is bad?

No, it could also be caused by electrical issues, such as corroded connections or a malfunctioning relay.

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

The cost can vary but typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on whether the pump or related components need replacement.

9. What tools do I need to fix a P2601 code in my Saturn?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for electrical testing, and basic tools to access and replace the coolant pump or related components.

10. Can ignoring a P2601 code damage my Saturn?

Yes, ignoring this code can lead to engine overheating, which may cause severe, costly damage to critical components.

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