P261B on Audi
Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit Range/Performance
P261B on Audi vehicles indicates coolant pump "b" control circuit range/performance. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Audi model — most commonly on A6. 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. Typical repair costs on Audi range from $800 to $1,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P261B
- •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)
P261B on Audi by Model
Audi A6(1 issue)
- Water Pump and Thermostat Failure (Overheating)2005-2023
Water pump failures are common across all A6 generations due to plastic impeller degradation and seal leaks. Audi uses plastic impellers that crack or disintegrate over time (typically 80,000-120,000 miles), causing coolant leaks and overheating. The water pump is often driven by the timing belt or timing chain, so replacement is recommended during timing service to save labor. Thermostat housings also crack due to heat cycling, causing coolant leaks and erratic temperature readings. Symptoms include coolant leaks under the car, overheating in traffic, temperature gauge fluctuations, and coolant warning lights. Ignoring a failed water pump can lead to severe engine overheating, warped cylinder heads, and blown head gaskets ($3,000-$5,000 repair). Some models have electric auxiliary water pumps that also fail, causing poor heater performance.
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What does P261B mean on Audi?▼
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. On Audi specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P261B on Audi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Audi: 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. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P261B on a Audi?▼
Repair costs on Audi range from $800 to $1,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Audi models have P261B documented?▼
Au7o has documented P261B on 1 Audi model: A6.