P2560: Engine Coolant Level Low

What Does The P2560 Code Mean?

OBD-II trouble code P2560 and related codes P2556, P2557 and P2559 are associated with the engine coolant level sensor and/or switch circuit.

Some vehicles are equipped with a coolant level sensor or switch. Typically it operates by using a float of some kind, similar to what your gas gauge sending unit uses. If the coolant level drops below a specific level, that completes the circuit and tells the PCM (powertrain control module) to set this code.

When the PCM detects that the engine coolant level is too low, code P2560 will be set and the check engine or low coolant / overheating light may be illuminated.

What Are The Symptoms Of The P2560 Code?

Symptoms of a P2560 trouble code may include:

• Cooling system warning lamp illuminated
• Check engine light illuminated

What Are The Potential Causes Of The P2560 Code?

Causes for this P2560 code may include:

• Low coolant (most likely)
• An air “bubble” in the cooling system
• Defective coolant level sensor or switch
• Faulty or damaged coolant level sensor/switch wiring

How Serious Is This P2560 Code?

The severity of this code is moderate because if the engine coolant level drops too low there is potential for the engine to overheat and cause extensive damage.

How Can You Fix The P2560 Code?

The first step is to simply check the coolant level. If it is actually low (which is likely) then top up the coolant and keep a close eye on it to see if it drops low again.

The second step would be to research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s) for the specific vehicle by year, model and engine/transmission configuration. In some circumstances, this can save a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

If the coolant drops low and you add coolant, and then it happens again and again that indicates there is a problem. Perhaps the head gasket is failing or there is a coolant leak somewhere.

If there is a “bubble” in the cooling system it may give you different codes such as this one. If you recently changed the coolant but didn’t properly bleed air from the system, do that now.

There is a slight possibility that this code is in error but typically this is more of an informational code that’s logged to record low coolant. This code may be set as a permanent code, which cannot be cleared from the vehicle’s system.

This article is strictly informational and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.

Recommended Parts

Below are some recommended auto parts to help you address the trouble code affecting your vehicle and get it running smoothly again:

>>> Valvoline Multi-Vehicle Ready-to-Use Antifreeze
>>> Twippo 372Pcs Waterproof Wire Connectors Kit

Note: During the purchasing process, please check carefully whether the part you want to buy fits your car!

Reference Sources

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Guide for P2560 – Ominitek Advanced Technologies, page 221.