P261A: Pump B open-circuit monitoring has a specific cooling-loop role

P261A identifies the control-circuit/open classification for coolant pump B. Ford defines this B function as a high-temperature-loop auxiliary pump for component cooling number 1. The adjacent A-pump section instead describes cabin heating, so the letters must be tied to the actual vehicle architecture before locating hardware.

An open report is one of several pump classifications

The detailed open representation is P261A_13. Low and high circuit conditions have separate suffixes, while performance/stuck-off monitoring is listed independently. A pump that does not appear to run therefore cannot be classified as electrically open solely from observation.

The B-pump check operates continuously, specifies five seconds of monitoring and requires battery voltage of at least 11 V. Those conditions should be retained when comparing an event with a later test.

Identify the path the controller assessed

A useful diagnostic record keeps the complete code, requested pump operation, battery voltage and the correct component-cooling function. The summary does not supply an open-circuit resistance limit or connector pin; it cannot substitute for the applicable wiring diagram.

Several later rows under the B heading contain inconsistent A labels, so the broader table should not be used to invent a universal physical assignment for every pump code. The P261A open row itself is explicitly B. Its electrical evidence still needs localization before any decision about a motor, harness or controller replacement.

Source and applicability

Ford 2024–2025 gasoline OBD summary, July 16, 2024 revision; only the described monitor and architecture. Model, engine and calibration fitment are not inferred. The monitor explanation does not identify a failed part or replace the applicable service procedure. Ford PDF, page 144. Ford PDF, page 145.