P261D on 2005-2023 Audi A6 — Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit High
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $800-$1,500 repair
Most Reported On
P261D is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit High.” This code indicates the engine control module detected an abnormally high voltage condition on the control circuit for electric coolant pump "B." That pump is an auxiliary coolant pump used to keep coolant circulating for engine, turbocharger, hybrid, or A/C cooling needs. A high-voltage reading usually means the circuit is open or has lost its proper ground/load, so the computer can no longer reliably drive the pump, risking inadequate cooling. 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 P261D.
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 P261D mean?
P261D stands for "Coolant Pump "B" Control Circuit High." This code indicates the engine control module detected an abnormally high voltage condition on the control circuit for electric coolant pump "B." That pump is an auxiliary coolant pump used to keep coolant circulating for engine, turbocharger, hybrid, or A/C cooling needs. A high-voltage reading usually means the circuit is open or has lost its proper ground/load, so the computer can no longer reliably drive the pump, risking inadequate cooling.
What are the most common causes of P261D?
The most common causes of P261D are: Open circuit in the coolant pump control wiring, Failed or disconnected auxiliary coolant pump, Corroded or loose connector at the pump, Poor ground in the pump circuit, Faulty pump relay or power feed, ECM/PCM driver circuit fault (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P261D?
Repair costs for P261D range from $800 to $1,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P261D?
Au7o has documented P261D 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.