AutoCodes – Generic – P261A

P261A Code - Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit/Open

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit signal. Common causes include Faulty Coolant Pump Relay, Faulty Coolant Pump, Coolant Pump harness is open or shorted. 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: P261A indicates Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit/Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Coolant Pump Relay, Faulty Coolant Pump, Coolant Pump harness is open or shorted.
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 49,968

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

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 20, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P261A Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit signal. The PCM sets the OBDII code when the Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit signal is out of factory specifications.

OBDII Code P261A - Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit/Open - AutoCodes.com — P261A Code - Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit/Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P261A?

Faulty Coolant Pump Relay
Faulty Coolant Pump
Coolant Pump harness is open or shorted
Coolant Pump poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P261A?

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 P261A 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 P261A code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P261A Audi — Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit/Open
P261A Toyota — Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit/Open
P261A Volkswagen — Coolant Pump 'B' Control Circuit/Open

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.