P2601Cooling
Coolant Pump Control Circuit Range/Performance
P2601 means the auxiliary coolant pump control circuit is out of the expected range or performing erratically, so pump operation may be inconsistent.
🚗 Short trips are okay, but keep an eye on temperature. Erratic coolant pump operation can cause inconsistent cooling.
Is P2601 really the problem on YOUR car?Get a free AI diagnosis ranked by probability for your exact year, make, and model.
Run Free Diagnosis →
🎯 Top Causes, Ranked by Likelihood
#1Failing coolant pump$150-$600
The pump draws abnormal current or responds erratically.
#2High resistance in wiring or connectors$100-$350
Corroded or loose connections cause out-of-range readings.
#3Failed relay$20-$120
An intermittent relay causes performance faults.
#4ECM driver fault$500-$1200
The module output stage is degraded.
🩺 Common Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Inconsistent engine temperature
- Coolant pump cycling abnormally
- Reduced cooling performance
💰 Repair Cost: DIY vs Shop
📋 Free OBD2 Code Cheat Sheet
The 50 most common codes with likely cause and DIY fix cost. Sent once, no spam.
🔧 How to Diagnose P2601
1Inspect wiring and connectors for high resistance
2Measure pump current draw during operation
3Test the relay and power supply
4Compare commanded versus actual pump state with a scan tool
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with P2601?
Yes for short trips, but watch the temperature gauge and get it checked to avoid overheating.
What causes P2601?
Commonly a failing pump or high-resistance wiring that puts the control circuit out of its expected range.
How much to fix P2601?
Typically $200-$700 depending on whether wiring or the pump needs replacement.
🔗 Related Codes
Don't guess. Know exactly what's wrong.AmpAuto's AI ranks the real causes for your specific vehicle in 30 seconds.
Diagnose P2601 Free →