P261A on 2005-2023 Audi A6 — Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit/Open
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $800-$1,500 repair
Most Reported On
P261A is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit/Open.” This code sets when the engine control module detects an open (broken) circuit in the control wiring for electric coolant pump "B," an auxiliary pump that circulates coolant for engine, turbo, hybrid, or A/C cooling. An open circuit means the computer cannot drive the pump at all, so coolant may not move when needed. If the pump cannot run, the affected component can overheat, making this an important code to address promptly. This code is most commonly reported on 2005-2023 Audi A6, with repair costs ranging from $800 to $1,500.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 1 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 P261A.
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
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)
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
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
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.
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FAQ
What does P261A mean?
P261A stands for "Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit/Open." This code sets when the engine control module detects an open (broken) circuit in the control wiring for electric coolant pump "B," an auxiliary pump that circulates coolant for engine, turbo, hybrid, or A/C cooling. An open circuit means the computer cannot drive the pump at all, so coolant may not move when needed. If the pump cannot run, the affected component can overheat, making this an important code to address promptly.
What are the most common causes of P261A?
The most common causes of P261A are: Open or broken wire in the pump control circuit, Disconnected or corroded pump connector, Failed electric auxiliary coolant pump, Faulty pump relay or loss of power feed, Poor ground connection, ECM/PCM driver fault (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P261A?
Repair costs for P261A range from $800 to $1,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P261A?
Au7o has documented P261A across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Audi.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.