P261B fault code: what it means

P261B: Engine coolant pump B control fault on Lexus hybrids with an electric water pump: the pump is failing. Stop driving to avoid overheating.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Safety risk

Usual causes, most likely first

failing electric water pump
pump wiring or connector fault
low coolant

P261B by make

Lexus

Engine coolant pump B control fault on Lexus hybrids with an electric water pump: the pump is failing. Stop driving to avoid overheating.

Usual causes: failing electric water pump; pump wiring or connector fault; low coolant

Toyota

Engine coolant pump B control fault: the electric engine water pump on the hybrid is failing. Do not keep driving: overheating can warp the head.

Usual causes: failing electric water pump (common on 3rd-gen Prius); pump wiring or connector fault; low coolant

What the repair usually costs

Water pump replacement (belt-driven, not behind timing cover)NZ$340–NZ$770 · A$340–A$760
Water pump with timing belt kit (timing-belt-driven pump)NZ$770–NZ$1,970 · A$780–A$1,970
Water pump inside timing cover (chain engine)NZ$980–NZ$2,100 · A$1,020–A$2,160
Hybrid inverter coolant pump replace (Prius 20 series)NZ$310–NZ$680 · A$310–A$650

Not sure what P261B means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.