P code powertrain Medium severity

P260C Coolant Pump 'A' Control Circuit Low

The OBD2 code P260C indicates a low voltage or malfunction in the control circuit of the coolant pump 'A', which is responsible for circulating coolant in the engine or hybrid system

Definition

The OBD2 code P260C indicates a low voltage or malfunction in the control circuit of the coolant pump 'A', which is responsible for circulating coolant in the engine or hybrid system

Common causes

  • Faulty coolant pump
  • Damaged wiring or connectors
  • Short circuit in the control circuit
  • Open circuit in the control circuit
  • Faulty engine control module (ECM)
  • Poor ground connection
  • Blown fuse related to the coolant pump circuit

Common misdiagnoses

  • Faulty coolant pump
  • Wiring issues or shorts in the circuit
  • Bad coolant temperature sensor
  • Engine control module (ECM) failure
  • Low coolant level
  • Thermostat malfunction
  • Faulty relay or fuse related to the coolant pump

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Check the Vehicle's Battery and Charging System:

    Ensure the battery is fully charged and in good condition

  2. 2. Check the alternator output to ensure it is providing adequate voltage

  3. 3. Inspect the Coolant Pump:

    Locate the coolant pump and visually inspect it for any signs of damage or wear

  4. 4. Ensure that the pump is properly connected and that there are no loose or corroded connections

  5. 5. Check the Wiring and Connectors:

    Inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the coolant pump for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion

  6. 6. Look for any broken wires or poor connections that could cause a low signal

  7. 7. Test the Coolant Pump:

    If possible, test the coolant pump directly by applying power to it to see if it operates correctly

  8. 8. If the pump does not work when powered directly, it may need to be replaced

  9. 9. Check the Control Module:

    Verify that the engine control module (ECM) is functioning properly and is sending the correct signals to the coolant pump

  10. 10. Use a scan tool to check for any additional codes that may indicate a problem with the ECM

  11. 11. Inspect the Fuses:

    Check the fuses related to the coolant pump circuit to ensure they are not blown

  12. 12. Replace any blown fuses and retest the system

  13. 13. Test the Circuit:

    Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the coolant pump connector while the engine is running

  14. 14. Compare the readings to the specifications in the vehicle's service manual

  15. 15. Check for Ground Issues:

    Ensure that the coolant pump has a good ground connection. A poor ground can lead to low voltage readings

  16. 16. Clear the Codes and Test Drive:

    After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the trouble codes using a scan tool

  17. 17. Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns

  18. 18. Consult a Professional

  19. 19. If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician for further diagnosis. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the P260C code