Faulty control module internal timer circuit; Corroded or damaged power or ground connections at the module; Low battery voltage or poor charging system performance; Water intrusion or connector contamination at the module; Software corruption or outdated module calibration; Wiring harness damage between the module and power source

DTC codes / P26xx · Computer and output circuits / P262B

P262BControl Module Power Off Timer Performance

Q: What does code P262B mean?

Control Module Power Off Timer Performance. P262B indicates that a control module has detected a fault in its internal power-off timer circuit, which is responsible for confirming that the module shuts down completely after the ignition is turned off. The module monitors the timer's performance and sets this code when the timer signal is missing, erratic, or does not match the expected shutdown sequence.

P262B indicates that a control module has detected a fault in its internal power-off timer circuit, which is responsible for confirming that the module shuts down completely after the ignition is turned off. The module monitors the timer's performance and sets this code when the timer signal is missing, erratic, or does not match the expected shutdown sequence.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaComputer and output circuits

Symptoms you may notice

Illuminated check engine light or service vehicle soon message
Often no symptoms besides the warning light
Intermittent electrical issues such as flickering interior lights or accessories remaining powered after shutdown
Battery drain if the module fails to power down completely
Unexplained warning lights or communication errors on the network
No-start condition in rare cases if the module remains active and drains the battery

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty control module internal timer circuit
Corroded or damaged power or ground connections at the module
Low battery voltage or poor charging system performance
Water intrusion or connector contamination at the module
Software corruption or outdated module calibration
Wiring harness damage between the module and power source

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify battery voltage and charging system output; recharge or replace battery if needed
Inspect and clean module power and ground connections, checking for corrosion or looseness
Check for water intrusion or damaged connectors at the module and repair as necessary
Perform a voltage drop test on the module's power and ground circuits to confirm integrity
Reprogram or update the control module software if a calibration bulletin applies
Replace the control module if internal timer failure is confirmed after all external checks
Clear codes and perform a road test to verify the repair

Timer faults often mimic battery drain issues

A module that fails to power down can drain the battery overnight, so this code is sometimes found only after a no-start complaint rather than a warning light.
Many technicians replace the module prematurely when the real cause is a weak battery or corroded ground that disrupts the timer's voltage reference.
The power-off timer is often part of the module's internal watchdog circuit, so the code can set intermittently and may not reappear during a short test drive.
Scan tool data may show the module staying awake after key-off, which is a more reliable indicator than the code alone.
This code can be set by a low-voltage event during engine cranking, so always check for a weak battery before condemning the module.

Can I keep driving with P262B?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive because the fault affects module shutdown rather than engine operation, but prolonged driving with a module that stays awake can drain the battery and leave you stranded. Address the issue promptly and avoid leaving the vehicle parked for long periods until repaired.

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.