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P26BBModeratePowertrain

P26BB on 2021-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (LT, RST, LTZ, High Country) — Engine Coolant Bypass Valve "C" Range/Performance

1 vehicles · 1 makes

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Most Reported On

2021-2022Chevrolet Silverado 1500LT +3

P26BB is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Engine Coolant Bypass Valve "C" Range/Performance.” A generic OBD-II code indicating engine coolant bypass valve C is electrically operating but its performance (actual coolant flow/temperature response versus expected) is out of range. On some vehicles this can appear transiently during the valve break-in period and self-clear after further actuations. This code is most commonly reported on 2021-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (LT, RST, LTZ, High Country).

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Vehicles (1)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (3)
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Common Causes

1Coolant bypass valve C sticking or slow to respond
2Debris/contamination affecting valve travel
3Valve break-in variation (low mileage)
4Coolant flow restriction
5Valve wear or internal fault
6Faulty ECM (rare)

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P26BB, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

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A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

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  • No batteries or app needed
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Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

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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)
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Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

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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
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Professional$350–$450

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.

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Vehicles Affected (1)

Chevrolet P26BB page →
Silverado 1500Moderate

3.0L Duramax (LM2) engine coolant control valve failure (GM Special Coverage N252508341)

2021-2022$0-$6000 reports

Related Codes (8)

P26B2Charge Air Cooler Coolant Pump Control CircuitP26B4Charge Air Cooler Coolant Pump PerformanceP26B5Charge Air Cooler Coolant Temperature Too HighP26B7Engine Coolant Bypass Valve "C" Control Circuit/OpenP0013"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 P26BB mean?

P26BB stands for "Engine Coolant Bypass Valve "C" Range/Performance." A generic OBD-II code indicating engine coolant bypass valve C is electrically operating but its performance (actual coolant flow/temperature response versus expected) is out of range. On some vehicles this can appear transiently during the valve break-in period and self-clear after further actuations.

What are the most common causes of P26BB?

The most common causes of P26BB are: Coolant bypass valve C sticking or slow to respond, Debris/contamination affecting valve travel, Valve break-in variation (low mileage), Coolant flow restriction, Valve wear or internal fault, Faulty ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P26BB?

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and vehicle.

Which vehicles are affected by P26BB?

Au7o has documented P26BB across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Chevrolet.

Sources (3)

  • articleLM2 3.0 Duramax: GM Issues Special Coverage for Coolant Control Valve (N252508341) - Duramax News
  • articleChevy Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax Coolant Control Valve Issue - Valero Law
  • Forum2021 3.0 Duramax Code P1098 - Pickup Truck +SUV Talk Forums
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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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