P2616 – High Camshaft Position Signal Output Circuit

P2616 Possible Causes

Faulty camshaft position sensor
Camshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted
Poor electrical connection in camshaft position sensor circuit

How to Fix Code P2616

Check the “Possible Causes” listed above. Visually inspect the wiring harness and related connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.

Possible Symptoms

Illuminated engine light (or service engine soon warning light)

P2616 Meaning

The camshaft position sensor is an electronic device used in an engine to record the speed at which the camshaft rotates. This information is used by the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control ignition and fuel injection. The camshaft position sensor detects the retraction of the camshaft (intake) to identify a particular cylinder. The camshaft position sensor detects the piston position. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, typically a disk, as well as a static part, the actual sensor.

P2617 – Crankshaft Position Signal Output Circuit / Open

P2617 Possible Causes

Faulty crankshaft position sensor
Crankshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted
Poor electrical connection in crankshaft position sensor circuit

How to Fix Code P2617

Possible Symptoms

Illuminated engine light (or service engine soon warning light)

P2617 Meaning

When the engine rotates, the high and low parts of the teeth cause a change in the gap with the sensor. The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change. The changing magnetic field causes the sensor’s voltage to change.

P2618 – Low Crankshaft Position Signal Output Circuit

P2618 Possible Causes

Faulty crankshaft position sensor
Crankshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted
Poor electrical connection in crankshaft position sensor circuit

How to Fix Code P2618

Check the “Possible Causes” listed above. Visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.

Possible Symptoms

Illuminated engine light (or service engine soon warning light)

P2618 Meaning

The crankshaft position sensor, also known as the crank position sensor, is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the crankshaft is spinning. This information is used by the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control ignition and fuel injection. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, typically a disc, as well as a static part, the actual sensor.
When the engine rotates, the high and low parts of the teeth cause a change in the gap with the sensor. The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change. The changing magnetic field causes the sensor’s voltage to change.

P2619 – High Crankshaft Position Signal Output Circuit

P2619 Possible Causes

Faulty crankshaft position sensor
Crankshaft position sensor harness is open or shorted
Poor electrical connection in crankshaft position sensor circuit

How to Fix Code P2619

Possible Symptoms

Illuminated engine light (or service engine soon warning light)

P2619 Meaning

The crankshaft position sensor, also known as the crank position sensor, is an electronic device used in an engine to record the rate at which the crankshaft is spinning. This information is used by the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control ignition and fuel injection. The sensor system consists of a rotating part, typically a disc, as well as a stationary part, the actual sensor.
When the engine rotates, the high and low points of the teeth cause a change in the gap with the sensor. The changing gap causes the magnetic field near the sensor to change. The changing magnetic field causes the sensor’s voltage to change.

P261A Coolant Pump B Control Circuit Open

Deciphering Code P261A: Auxiliary Water Pump Circuit Malfunction

Symptoms and Urgency of Intervention

Code P261A indicates an electrical anomaly in the auxiliary water pump circuit (Coolant Pump B, or CP-B). Its severity is critical due to the risk of engine overheating. The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) being unable to fully compensate for the failure, the cooling fans may run continuously (100% cycle), leading to:

🔴 Illumination of the engine warning light (MIL)
🌡️ Engine overheating
❌ Faulty air conditioning
⚠️ Reduced performance (limp mode)

Probable Causes

Electrical Issues (80% of cases):

Damaged wiring, corroded connector, or blown fuse.
Open circuit or short circuit in the pump.
Faulty relay.

Mechanical Failure: Auxiliary water pump out of service.
Faulty PCM (rare, check as a last resort).

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

1. Essential Pre-Checks

✅ Consult TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins): Identify software fixes or recalls related to the model (e.g., Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda).
🔍 Visual Inspection: Locate the CP-B pump (often near the engine or wheel wells). Check for:
Chafed, burnt wires, or oxidized connectors (greenish tint).
Clean terminals with contact spray and apply dielectric grease.

2. Electrical Tests

Pump Test:
Disconnect the pump and measure its resistance with a multimeter (DVOM).
Expected Values: Typically between 10 and 50 Ω.
Abnormal Result (∞ or 0 Ω) → Replace pump.
Power Supply Test:
With ignition ON, check for 12V on the power circuit.
Use a diagnostic tool to activate the pump. No voltage? Problem with relay, wiring, or PCM.
Ground Test:
Connect a test light between the battery (+) and the pump ground.
If the light doesn’t illuminate during activation, look for a break in the ground circuit.

Solutions and Best Practices

🔧 Common Repairs:
Replace the pump if faulty (VW/Audi models frequently affected).
Repair damaged wires or replace the relay.
⚠️ Complex Cases:
If the code persists after replacement, reprogram or replace the PCM (requires a professional with proper equipment).
💡 Pro Tip: Wiggle the wiring harnesses during tests to detect intermittent issues (hidden faults).

Related Codes and At-Risk Vehicles

Similar Codes: P2600, P2601, P2602, P2603 (pump or circuit malfunctions).
Vulnerable Brands: Volkswagen (Golf, Passat), Audi (A4, Q5), Skoda, Seat (models equipped with electric auxiliary pumps).

Stakes and Recommendations

Negligence can lead to a costly engine failure. If you lack expertise, consult a certified mechanic. For enthusiasts, refer to the specific model’s workshop manual and use professional diagnostic tools (e.g., VCDS for VAG).

Useful Resources:

Specialized forums (e.g., Ross-Tech, Club Audi France).
Technical databases (AllData, Identifix).

Prompt intervention preserves your engine and avoids expensive repairs!

P261B Coolant Pump Control Circuit Range/Performance B

Symptoms

and severity

The severity is generally serious due to its impact on the cooling system. Since it could be an electrical or mechanical failure, the PCM cannot fully compensate for it. Partial compensation usually means the cooling fans run all the time (100% duty cycle).

Symptoms of a P261B code may include:

Malfunction indicator light illuminated
Overheating
Air conditioning system not working properly

Causes

Potential causes for this code being set are as follows:

Open in the coolant pump circuit – likely
Coolant pump failure – inoperative (mechanically or electrically) – likely
PCM failure – unlikely

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your issue might be a known problem with a known fix released by the manufacturer and could save you time and money during diagnosis.

Next, locate the B coolant pump (CP-B) on your specific vehicle. This pump is typically found mounted at the front of the engine, on top of the engine, inside the wheel wells, or against the firewall. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Disconnect the connector and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. See if they appear burnt or have a greenish tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic-bristled brush if cleaning the terminals is necessary. Let it dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals make contact.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from the memory and see if the P261B code returns. If it does not, the connections were likely your problem.

For this particular code, this is the most common area of concern, as are the relays/connections to the relays, with pump failure being the second most common.

If the code returns, we will need to test the pump and associated circuits. Typically, there are 2 wires for each coolant pump. First, disconnect the harness going to the coolant pump. With a digital volt ohm meter (DVOM), connect one meter lead to one terminal of the pump. Connect the remaining meter lead to the other pump terminal. It should not be open or shorted. Check the resistance specifications for your specific vehicle. If the pump motor is open or shorted (infinite resistance or no resistance/0 ohms), replace the coolant pump.

If this test passes, with a DVOM, check that you have 12V at the coolant pump power circuit (red lead to the pump power circuit, black lead to a good ground). With a scan tool that can activate the coolant pump, turn on the coolant pump. If there is no 12 volts at the pump, repair the wiring from the PCM or relay to the pump, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that checks out, verify the coolant pump ground circuit. Connect a test light to the positive 12V battery terminal (red terminal) and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to the coolant pump circuit ground. Using the scan tool to actuate the coolant pump, check if the test light illuminates each time the scan tool actuates the pump. If the test light does not illuminate, it would indicate a problem with the ground circuit. If it does light up, wiggle the wiring harness going to the pump to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If all previous tests have passed and you continue to get a P261B, it would most likely indicate a faulty coolant pump, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the coolant pump has been replaced. If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. PCMs need to be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle to be installed correctly.

Other similar coolant pump codes include P2600, P2601, P2602, and P2603.

P261C Coolant Pump B Control Circuit Low

Symptoms and Severity

The severity is generally serious due to its impact on the cooling system. Since it is typically an electrical failure, the PCM cannot fully compensate for it. Partial compensation usually means the cooling fans run all the time (100% duty cycle).

Symptoms of a P261C code may include:

Malfunction indicator light illuminated
Overheating
Air conditioning system not functioning properly

Causes

Potential causes for setting this code are as follows:

Open in the coolant pump circuit – likely
Coolant pump failure – likely
PCM failure – unlikely

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your issue may be a known problem with a known fix issued by the manufacturer and could save you time and money during diagnosis.

Next, locate the B coolant pump (CP-B) on your specific vehicle. This pump is typically found mounted at the front of the engine, on top of the engine, inside the wheel wells, or against the firewall. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Disconnect the connector and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. See if they appear burnt or have a greenish tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning the terminals is necessary. Allow it to dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals make contact.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from the memory and see if the P261C code returns. If it does not, the connections were likely your problem.

For this particular code, this is the most common area of concern, as are the relays/connections to the relays, with pump failure being the second most common.

If the code returns, we will need to test the pump and associated circuits. Typically, there are 2 wires for each coolant pump. First, disconnect the harness going to the coolant pump. With a digital volt ohm meter (DVOM), connect one meter lead to one pump terminal. Connect the remaining meter lead to the other pump terminal. It should not be open or shorted. Check the resistance specifications for your specific vehicle. If the pump motor is open or shorted (infinite resistance or no resistance/0 ohms), replace the coolant pump.

If this test passes, use a DVOM to check that you have 12V at the coolant pump power circuit (red lead to the pump power circuit, black lead to a good ground). With a scan tool that can activate the coolant pump, turn on the coolant pump. If there is no 12 volts at the pump, repair the wiring from the PCM or relay to the pump, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that checks out, verify the coolant pump ground circuit. Connect a test light to the positive 12V battery terminal (red terminal) and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to the coolant pump circuit ground. Using the scan tool to actuate the coolant pump, check if the test light illuminates each time the scan tool actuates the pump. If the test light does not illuminate, it would indicate a circuit problem. If it does illuminate, wiggle the wiring harness going to the pump to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If all previous tests have passed and you continue to get a P261C, it would most likely indicate a failing coolant pump, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the coolant pump has been replaced. If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. PCMs need to be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle to be installed correctly.

Other similar coolant pump codes include P2600, P2601, P2602, and P2603.

P261D – Coolant Pump B Control Circuit High

Symptoms

and severity

Symptoms of a P261D code may include:

Malfunction indicator light on
Overheating
Air conditioning system not working properly

Causes

Potential causes for this code being set are as follows:

Open in the coolant pump circuit – likely
Coolant pump failure – likely
PCM failure – unlikely

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your issue might be a known problem with a known fix published by the manufacturer and could save you time and money during diagnosis.

Next, locate the B coolant pump (CP-B) on your specific vehicle. This pump is typically found mounted at the front of the engine, on top of the engine, inside the wheel wells, or against the firewall. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for scratches, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Disconnect the connector and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. Check if they appear burnt or have a greenish tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic-bristled brush if cleaning the terminals is necessary. Let it dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals make contact.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from memory and see if the P261D code returns. If it does not, the connections were likely your problem.

For this particular code, this is the most common area of concern, along with relays/connections to relays, with pump failure being the second most common.

If the code returns, we will need to test the pump and related circuits. Typically, there are 2 wires for each coolant pump. First, disconnect the harness going to the coolant pump. With a digital volt ohm meter (DVOM), connect one meter lead to one terminal of the pump. Connect the remaining meter lead to the other pump terminal. It should not be open or shorted. Check the resistance specifications for your specific vehicle. If the pump motor is open or shorted (infinite resistance or no resistance/0 ohms), replace the coolant pump.

If all previous tests have passed and you continue to get a P261D, it would most likely indicate a failing coolant pump, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the coolant pump has been replaced. If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. PCMs need to be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle to be installed correctly.

Other similar coolant pump codes include P2600, P2601, P2602, and P2603.

P2620 – Throttle Position Output Circuit / Open

P2620 Possible Causes

Faulty throttle position sensor/switch
Throttle position sensor/switch harness is open or shorted
Poor electrical connection in throttle position sensor/switch circuit

How to Fix Code P2620

Check the “Possible Causes” listed above. Visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors. Look for damaged components and check for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.

Possible Symptoms

Illuminated engine light (or service engine soon warning light)

P2620 Meaning

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the throttle position circuit signal. The ECM sets the OBDII code when the throttle position circuit signal is outside factory specifications.

P2621 – Low Throttle Position Output Circuit

P2621 Possible Causes

Faulty throttle position sensor/switch
Throttle position sensor/switch harness is open or shorted
Poor electrical connection in throttle position sensor/switch circuit

How to Fix Code P2621

Possible Symptoms

Illuminated engine light (or service engine soon warning light)

P2621 Meaning

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the throttle position circuit signal. The ECM sets the OBDII code when the throttle position circuit signal is outside factory specifications.