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DTC codes / P02xx · Fuel and air metering (injector circuits) / P026E

P026ECharge Air Cooler Coolant Pump A Performance

P026E indicates that the engine control module has detected a performance problem with the electric coolant pump that circulates liquid through the charge air cooler, also called an intercooler. The module commands the pump to run and monitors its operation through feedback circuits, and it sets this code when the pump's actual response does not match the commanded output within the expected time and current limits.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaFuel and air metering (injector circuits)

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
  • Reduced engine power or limp mode during heavy acceleration or sustained driving
  • Poor acceleration or sluggish throttle response due to elevated intake air temperatures
  • A coolant warning message or overheating indication in some vehicles
  • Audible pump noise or lack of pump operation when the ignition is turned on
  • Increased fuel consumption or altered engine performance in demanding conditions

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Failed or seized charge air cooler coolant pump
  2. Blown fuse or damaged relay supplying power to the pump
  3. Corroded, loose, or damaged electrical connector at the pump
  4. Open or shorted wiring in the pump control or feedback circuit
  5. Low coolant level or air trapped in the charge air cooler circuit
  6. Restricted coolant flow from a clogged cooler or collapsed hose
  7. Internal fault in the engine control module driver circuit

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Check the coolant level in the charge air cooler reservoir and top up if low, then inspect for leaks
  2. Inspect the pump fuse and relay, replacing any that are blown or faulty
  3. Disconnect the pump connector and check for corrosion, tightness, and clean the terminals
  4. Measure voltage and ground at the pump connector with the key on to confirm power and ground are present
  5. Command the pump on with a scan tool and listen for operation, then check for diagnostic trouble codes in other modules
  6. Perform a resistance check on the pump motor and compare to specifications, replacing the pump if out of range
  7. If all electrical and mechanical checks pass, diagnose the control module circuit or reprogram or replace the module as needed

What technicians often overlook on P026E

  • A charge air cooler coolant pump that runs but has low output can set this code without any electrical fault, so flow testing is as important as checking power and ground.
  • Air pockets in the charge air cooler circuit after a coolant service are a common cause of performance codes because the pump cavitates and cannot build pressure.
  • The pump may only be commanded during certain driving conditions, so a fault can be intermittent and not present during a simple key-on test.
  • Corrosion inside the pump connector can cause resistance that mimics a failed pump, so always inspect the terminals before condemning the pump.
  • On some vehicles, a failing auxiliary coolant pump for the charge air cooler shares a circuit with other components, and a fault elsewhere can set this code.

Can I keep driving with P026E?

You can usually drive the vehicle short distances at light load, but avoid heavy acceleration or sustained high-speed driving because elevated intake air temperatures can reduce power and, in severe cases, damage the engine. Have the fault diagnosed promptly to prevent overheating of the charge air cooler system.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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