VOLVO
ECM-261A - Fuel pressure system. Faulty signal
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
This fault code has different meanings depending on model, model year or engine. Select the meaning that applies to your car.
Applies to the following models:
7 modelsC30 (2007–2013), C70 (2006–2013), S40 (2004–2013), S60 (2001–2009), S80 (1999–2006), V50 (2004–2013), V70 (2000–2008)
Show models by year and engine (13)
- Volvo C30 (2007–2013)2007–2011Engine B5244S4 only
- Volvo C70 (2006–2013)2006All engines except: B5254T3
- Volvo C70 (2006–2013)2007–2010Engine B5244S4, B5244S5 only
- Volvo C70 (2006–2013)2011Engine B5244S4 only
- Volvo S40 (2004–2013)2004Engine B5244S4, B5244S5 only
- Volvo S40 (2004–2013)2005–2010Engine B5244S4, B5244S5, B5244S7 only
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2003–2006Engine B5244S, B5244S2, B5244S6 only
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2007–2009Engine B5244S, B5244S2 only
- Volvo S80 (1999–2006)2003–2006Engine B5244S, B5244S2 only
- Volvo V50 (2004–2013)2004Engine B5244S4, B5244S5 only
- Volvo V50 (2004–2013)2005–2010Engine B5244S4, B5244S5, B5244S7 only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2003–2006Engine B5244S, B5244S2, B5244S6 only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2007–2008Engine B5244S, B5244S2 only
What does this fault code mean?
The ECM compares the pressure it requests with the actual pressure in the fuel rail. If the actual pressure varies or pulses too much, the code is set. The fault is therefore about an irregular pressure rather than a pressure that is too high or too low.
Possible causes
- The relief valve in the pump is stuck
- Leakage in the fuel lines up to the fuel rail
- The fuel pressure sensor is defective
- The fuel pump is defective
What you can do
- 1Fix any fault codes for the fuel pump control module first, since this code may then be a follow-on fault
- 2Make sure there is fuel in the tank: a nearly empty tank can give a false pressure reading
- 3Check the fuel lines and the fuel filter for blockage and leaks
- 4Check the connectors at the engine control module, the fuel pump and the fuel pressure sensor for contact resistance and oxidation
- 5With diagnostic equipment, read the fuel pressure sensor's value at idle and see whether it varies or pulses more than normal
- 6Have a workshop measure the fuel pressure and check the fuel pump, then try a new fuel pressure sensor if the fault remains
Symptoms you may notice4
- Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on
- The engine misfires
- The engine stalls
- The engine hesitates or surges unevenly during acceleration and deceleration
What the fault can affect2
- The fuel pump shuts off if the fuel pressure deviates a lot
- The fuel pump is controlled with a calculated value
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.