P260A code meaning
PTO Control Circuit/Open
What P260A means
P260A reports an open circuit in the output a control module uses to engage the power take-off, typically the coil circuit of a PTO relay or engagement solenoid. GM's PTO module on 2008-2014 Silverado/Sierra 3500 HD chassis cabs, described in upfitter bulletin UI 80c, switches both the supply and the ground side of an upfitter-installed relay and refuses PTO operation unless both lines are connected; GM also notes that the relay output is disabled from the factory and must be programmed on. GM's PTO code table lists the low and high faults of this relay output, but not P260A, so no manufacturer documents this exact code publicly. CARB defines a PTO unit as engine-driven equipment for bodies such as dump beds or winches. The PTO stays disengaged, while normal driving is unaffected.
P260A at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P260A
- PTO does not engage
- PTO indicator flashes or stays off
Common causes of P260A
- Most likelyRelay coil wiring missing, broken or only one side connected by the upfitter
- PossibleOpen coil in the PTO relay or engagement solenoid
- PossibleCorroded or loose connector in the chassis wiring
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Pto engagement solenoidPto relayWiring harness
What each part of P260A means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 6 | Area: computer (engine control module) and output circuits. |
| 0A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P260A 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 P260A
What does P260A mean?
P260A means "PTO Control Circuit/Open". P260A reports an open circuit in the output a control module uses to engage the power take-off, typically the coil circuit of a PTO relay or engagement solenoid. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P260A?
P260A does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P260A fail an emissions test?
P260A 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 P260A to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P260A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.