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P2261CriticalPowertrain

P2261: Turbocharger/Supercharger Bypass Valve - Mechanical

2 vehicles · 1 makes · $50-$700 repair

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Most Reported On

2011-2025Ford F-1502013-2018Ford FocusST

P2261 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Turbocharger/Supercharger Bypass Valve - Mechanical.” The PCM has detected that the turbo/supercharger bypass (recirculation/diverter) valve is not performing its mechanical function correctly. This valve vents or recirculates boost when the throttle closes to protect the forced-induction system. The code indicates a mechanical fault (stuck, leaking, or not moving) rather than an electrical circuit fault, so measured boost behavior does not match commanded operation. This code is most commonly reported on 2011-2025 Ford F-150, and 2013-2018 Ford Focus (ST), with repair costs ranging from $50 to $700.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (2)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (4)
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Common Causes

1Stuck, torn, or leaking bypass/diverter valve diaphragm
2Vacuum/boost leak in the hose to the bypass valve
3Faulty wastegate/bypass solenoid or actuator
4Restricted air filter or intake affecting boost
5Sensor/wiring fault feeding boost data to the PCM

Typical Repair Cost

$50 - $700

Based on 2 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

This is a powertrain code, so a basic OBD-II reader can read it. These read P2261.

Reads P codes$20–$40

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

by ANCEL

A simple code reader for engine (P) codes on many compatible OBD-II vehicles. It does not support every vehicle or hybrid/EV application, and it does NOT read body, chassis or network codes; confirm exact-vehicle compatibility before buying.

  • ✓Read & clear engine (P) codes
  • ✓View freeze frame data
  • ✓I/M readiness status
  • ✓No batteries or app needed
Check Price on Amazon
Reads P codes$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

by BlueDriver

Bluetooth scanner with a companion app that reads beyond the engine module — ABS, SRS and transmission — plus manufacturer-specific codes on many vehicles.

  • ✓Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
  • ✓Repair Reports with verified fixes
  • ✓Smog check readiness
  • ✓Free app (iOS & Android)
Check Price on Amazon
Reads P codes$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X V3.0 Elite OBD-II Scanner

by LAUNCH

Handheld scanner covering the four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

  • ✓Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
  • ✓Live data stream & graphing
  • ✓AutoVIN for vehicle identification
  • ✓Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Check Price on Amazon
Reads P codes$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

by Autel

Shop-level tablet with all-system coverage and bi-directional control, so you can command a module rather than only read it.

  • ✓All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
  • ✓Bi-directional control & active tests
  • ✓Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • ✓7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
Check Price on Amazon

What you can do yourself, and what needs a shop

Reading the code, clearing it, and watching whether it returns is a driveway job with the right scanner. These steps are not:

  • •Module programming or software updates — needs the manufacturer software or a J2534 pass-through with a paid subscription.
  • •Replacing a control module — most are VIN-programmed and immobilizer-registered, so a new one does nothing until it is coded to your car.
  • •Airbag/SRS component work — a stored fault can deploy a live device.

If the vehicle is still under warranty, check for an open recall or technical service bulletin before buying anything — the repair may already be covered.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.

Vehicles Affected (2)

Ford P2261 page →
F-150Moderate

EcoBoost Turbo Underboost (P0299) — Boost Leaks, Bypass Valve Diaphragm, and Warped Air Deflector

2011-2025$50-$700
FocusModerate

Focus ST Charge Pipe / Bypass Valve Boost Leak Causing Sudden Power Loss and Overboost Codes

2013-2018$60-$450

Related Codes (8)

P2260Secondary Air Injection System Control "B" Circuit HighP2262Turbo Boost Pressure Not Detected - MechanicalP2263Turbo/Supercharger Boost System PerformanceP2264Water in Fuel Sensor CircuitP0013"B" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)P0020Camshaft Position 'A' Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)P0023"B" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2)P0025"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)

FAQ

What does P2261 mean?

P2261 stands for "Turbocharger/Supercharger Bypass Valve - Mechanical." The PCM has detected that the turbo/supercharger bypass (recirculation/diverter) valve is not performing its mechanical function correctly. This valve vents or recirculates boost when the throttle closes to protect the forced-induction system. The code indicates a mechanical fault (stuck, leaking, or not moving) rather than an electrical circuit fault, so measured boost behavior does not match commanded operation.

What are the most common causes of P2261?

The most common causes of P2261 are: Stuck, torn, or leaking bypass/diverter valve diaphragm, Vacuum/boost leak in the hose to the bypass valve, Faulty wastegate/bypass solenoid or actuator, Restricted air filter or intake affecting boost, Sensor/wiring fault feeding boost data to the PCM. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P2261?

Repair costs for P2261 range from $50 to $700, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by P2261?

Au7o has documented P2261 across 2 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Ford.

Sources (4)

  • NHTSANHTSA Manufacturer Communications Data Corpus
  • ForumCommon Boost Leak? | Ford Focus ST Forum
  • ForumSmall boost leak! Need help! | Ford Focus ST Forum
  • ForumDangers of driving with boost leak | Ford Focus ST Forum
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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