P0261 — Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control "B" Intermittent (Cam/Rotor/Injector)
Drivable short-term, but fix now to avoid damage.
What P0261 means
This code means the engine computer detected an intermittent fault in the 'B' fuel metering control circuit of the diesel injection pump. Because it's intermittent, the problem usually comes from a loose connector, chafed wiring, or an early-stage metering valve or pump issue that isn't failing constantly yet. Repairs typically start with wiggle-testing the harness and connectors to find the on-and-off fault before considering pump components.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light that may come and go
- Occasional power loss or surging
- Intermittent hard starting
- Brief engine hesitation or stumble
- Symptoms that appear over bumps or vibration
Common causes
- Loose or corroded connector at the injection pump
- Chafed or intermittently broken wiring
- Early-stage fuel metering valve fault
- Vibration-sensitive connection in the circuit
- Beginning injection pump electrical failure
Typical repair cost
$150 – $1800
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0261 code?
Often yes for the short term, since the fault is intermittent, but it's not something to leave alone. These faults usually turn constant over time and can cause a no-start. Get the wiring and pump checked before it worsens, and ease off if symptoms appear while driving.
How much does it cost to fix a P0261 code?
Because it's often a wiring or connector issue, repairs can start around $150. If diagnosis reveals a failing metering valve or injection pump, costs can climb to roughly $800 to $1,800. Intermittent faults can take extra diagnostic time to track down.
Is a P0261 code serious?
It's potentially serious because it involves the injection pump, even if symptoms are occasional right now. Intermittent metering faults tend to escalate into constant problems and breakdowns. Treat it as a 'fix soon' item rather than ignoring it.
Why is my P0261 code intermittent?
Intermittent codes usually come from connections that fail only under certain conditions, like vibration, heat, or moisture. A chafed wire or loose connector at the pump is a common culprit. A technician often wiggle-tests the harness while monitoring data to reproduce it.