P2601 on Ford Escape
Coolant Pump A Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Ford Escape context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P2601.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P2601 Means on Your Ford Escape
P2601 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Coolant Pump A Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off. This code relates to the powertrain system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Ford Escape Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"An “engine fault check engine now” Came up. We quickly brought our 2017 Ford escape into our near by Ford dealership. Mechanic says a P2601 code came up, which is related to coolant to Aux pump performance. They found reservoir leaking a reservoir spiderd hose down to oil cooler."
"Check engine light came on and car was idling rough. Took to auto repair shop and was quoted almost $12,000 to fix problem. Code P0316, P2601 and P0302. Misfire in cylinder 2 due to coolant leakage. My entire engine needs to be replaced. I will now need to purchase a new car."
"The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the “Service Engine Now” warning light was illuminated. The contact then stated that he noticed an abnormal burning odor."
"While driving on the highway on [XXX] at normal highway speed, the instrumental panel suddenly displayed a warning to pull over and shut-off the engine. There were no prior indications of a malfunction."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Ford Escape
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.