P2061 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a voltage higher than expected on the control circuit of the reductant injection air pump, which is part of the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system. This typically points to an electrical fault such as a short to power, a failed pump, or a wiring issue.
The pump itself may have an internal short to power, causing the high voltage reading. This is a common failure due to exposure to DEF crystallization or electrical overload.
A chafed or damaged wire in the harness that connects the pump to the PCM can short to a 12V source, raising the circuit voltage above the expected level.
A stuck relay or a shorted fuse can supply continuous power to the pump control circuit, causing a high voltage condition when the pump should be off.
Moisture or DEF contamination in the electrical connector can create a high-resistance short or cross-connection, leading to an elevated voltage signal.
In very rare cases, the PCM itself may have a failed driver circuit that incorrectly reads or supplies high voltage. This should only be considered after all other causes are ruled out.
You may be able to drive short distances, but the vehicle may enter limp mode or fail emissions. Continued driving could damage the DEF system or catalytic converter. It's best to diagnose and repair promptly.
No, it is almost never the correct fix. The PCM is rarely at fault for this code. Most cases are caused by a failed pump, wiring short, or relay issue. Replacing the PCM without proper diagnosis is expensive and usually unnecessary.
It is a pump that delivers diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) from the tank to the injector in the exhaust system. It operates under PCM control to maintain proper dosing for emissions reduction.
Clearing the code may turn off the check engine light temporarily, but if the underlying fault (e.g., shorted pump or wiring) is not repaired, the code will return, often immediately or after a drive cycle.