AutoCodesDodge – P26A6 Dodge

P26A6 Dodge Code - Engine Coolant Bypass Valve Position Sensor Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The primary purpose of transmission thermal management system is to keep the Transmission fluid of the 8 speed Transmission at its optimal operating temperature range. Common causes include Faulty Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor, Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor harness is open or shorted, Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor 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
P26A6 Dodge indicates Engine Coolant Bypass Valve Position Sensor Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor, Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor harness is open or shorted, Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 9,223
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 13, 2020
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Code P26A6 Dodge Description

The primary purpose of transmission thermal management system is to keep the Transmission fluid of the 8 speed Transmission at its optimal operating temperature range. This is accomplished by directing coolant flow not required for cabin heat to the Thermal Management Unit (TMU) located on the left hand side of the Transmission which transfers heat from the engine coolant to the transmission oil fluid. Coolant flow is directed by means of the Coolant Three Way Valve located upstream of the cabin heater coolant supply. The coolant that is sent from the Coolant Three Way Valve warms the transmission fluid in order to get it up to the ideal operating temperature range quicker.
The Coolant Three Way Valve is supplied Battery voltage and a ground circuit. The Coolant Three Way Valve position is electrically controlled using a 12 volt PWM high side signal from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM will send a PWM signal of 25% or 75% to the Coolant Three Way Valve, depending on whether the coolant is desired to be directed to the Heater Core or the TMU. The Coolant Three Way Valve has an internal position sensor that sends a signal back to the PCM. The sensor operates as a typical three wire sensor which has a 5-Volt Supply circuit, Signal circuit, and Return circuit.
OBDII Code P26A6 Dodge - Engine Coolant Bypass Valve Position Sensor Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com
P26A6 Dodge Code - Engine Coolant Bypass Valve Position Sensor Circuit Low

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P26A6 Dodge?

  • Faulty Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor
  • Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Coolant Three Way Valve Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P26A6 Dodge?

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 P26A6 Dodge 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 P26A6 Dodge Code

1. What does the OBDII code P26A6 mean on a Dodge vehicle?

P26A6 indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Bypass Valve Position Sensor Circuit, specifically that the circuit is reading a low voltage.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P26A6 code on a Dodge?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, delayed engine warm-up, inconsistent cabin heating, or possible engine overheating.

3. What causes the P26A6 code to trigger?

Common causes include a faulty coolant bypass valve, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning position sensor, or a failure in the vehicle's PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. Can I drive my Dodge with the P26A6 code?

It may be safe to drive for a short period, but ignoring the issue can lead to engine overheating or inefficient performance. It’s best to address it promptly.

5. How is the P26A6 code diagnosed?

A mechanic will typically use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the bypass valve and its wiring, and test the circuit's voltage and resistance.

6. How do you fix the P26A6 code on a Dodge?

Repairs may involve replacing the coolant bypass valve, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming/updating the PCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P26A6 code on a Dodge?

The repair cost can vary, with parts like the coolant bypass valve ranging from $100 to $300, plus labor costs.

8. Can a bad thermostat cause the P26A6 code?

While a bad thermostat is not the direct cause, it can contribute to cooling system issues, so it’s worth inspecting if other components seem fine.

9. Does a P26A6 code affect fuel economy?

Yes, it can, as improper coolant flow may cause the engine to run less efficiently, potentially reducing fuel economy.

10. Can I clear the P26A6 code without fixing the issue?

You can clear the code with a scan tool, but if the underlying problem isn’t fixed, the code will likely return.

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