P261B: Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit Range/Performance
9 vehicles · 2 makes · $300-$8,000 repair
Most Reported On
P261B is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit Range/Performance.” This code sets when the engine control module commands the electric (auxiliary) coolant pump "B" but the circuit's behavior or feedback does not match what is expected for the commanded state. Coolant pump "B" is typically an electric auxiliary pump that helps circulate coolant for engine, turbo, hybrid, or A/C-related cooling. A range/performance fault means the pump or its control circuit is responding sluggishly or incorrectly, which risks overheating if coolant is not moving properly. This code is most commonly reported on 2013-2024 Audi A4 allroad (Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige), 2015-2023 Audi Q3 (Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige, S line), and 2008-2023 Audi A5 (2.0T, Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige, S line, S5), plus 6 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $300 to $8,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 9 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P261B, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all 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 diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.
Vehicles Affected (9)
Electric Water Pump Premature Failure
Water Pump Failure and Coolant Leak
Water Pump and Thermostat Failure
Coolant Leak from Thermostat Housing and Water Pump Area (4.0T)
Electronic Water Pump Failure (2.0T)
Electric Water Pump Failure (2.0T)
EA839 3.0T Water Pump Internal Leak Causing Cascade Failures
EA839 Water Pump Internal Leak and Vacuum System Contamination (2.9T)
FAQ
What does P261B mean?
P261B stands for "Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit Range/Performance." This code sets when the engine control module commands the electric (auxiliary) coolant pump "B" but the circuit's behavior or feedback does not match what is expected for the commanded state. Coolant pump "B" is typically an electric auxiliary pump that helps circulate coolant for engine, turbo, hybrid, or A/C-related cooling. A range/performance fault means the pump or its control circuit is responding sluggishly or incorrectly, which risks overheating if coolant is not moving properly.
What are the most common causes of P261B?
The most common causes of P261B are: Failing or seized electric auxiliary coolant pump, Wiring or connector fault in the pump control circuit, Corroded or loose pump connector, Low coolant level or air in the system, Faulty pump relay or power supply, Control module (ECM) driver fault (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P261B?
Repair costs for P261B range from $300 to $8,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P261B?
Au7o has documented P261B across 9 vehicle models from 2 manufacturers: Audi, Toyota.
Sources (10)
- TSBAudi TSB - Water Pump Replacement EA888
- NHTSANHTSA Complaint #11408386 - 2018 Audi A5 coolant pump/thermostat failure causing coolant leak and overheating warning
- videoYouTube - Audi S8 4.0T Thermostat Housing Coolant Leak Repair
- NHTSANHTSA Vehicle Page for 2018 Audi A5 Sportback - includes complaints and recalls
- videoKnown YouTube channel video showing diagnosis and replacement of electric water pump on Audi A5 2.0T
- TSBEngine Water Pump Guide for the 2019-2024 Toyota Camry (references TSB T-TT-0733-23)
- manufacturerToyota Genuine Electric Water Pump Assembly 161A0/16032 series
- videoFCP Euro - Audi SQ5 3.0T Water Pump Replacement and Leak Diagnosis
- videoAudi S5 2.9T Water Pump Internal Leak Repair - Detailed Walkthrough
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.