P2560 code meaning
Engine Coolant Level Low
What P2560 means
P2560 is not an electrical fault but a level finding: the coolant level sensor works, yet it reports less coolant than the minimum. Deutz uses it on the EMR L1 control as P2560-00 under SPN 111 with failure mode 1, meaning the level has fallen under its warning threshold. Ford lists P2560 in the 2014 BOSS 302S engine module table, with no M in the lamp column, i.e. no MIL. Mercedes-Benz reports the same situation differently, under P2556-7B. The usual causes are leaks at hoses, radiator, water pump or heater core, internal leaks such as a charge air cooler or head gasket, or air trapped after a service. Because overheating can follow, top up only with the engine cool and look for the loss. P2556 to P2559 cover faults of the level sensor and its circuit.
P2560 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.2 to 6 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2560
- Low coolant warning
- Rising engine temperature or overheating
- Visible coolant traces or sweet smell
Common causes of P2560
- Most likelyExternal leak at hoses, radiator or water pump
- PossibleInternal leak, e.g. charge air cooler or head gasket
- Less likelyAir trapped after a coolant service
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Cooling systemCoolant
What each part of P2560 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| 60 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2560 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P2560
What does P2560 mean?
P2560 means "Engine Coolant Level Low". P2560 is not an electrical fault but a level finding: the coolant level sensor works, yet it reports less coolant than the minimum. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2560?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2560 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2560 fail an emissions test?
P2560 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P2560 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.2 to 6 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P2560 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.