P26AB Code will not go away

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Buddhaman

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2014
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3.6 Pentastar
I have a 2014 Ram 1500 Bighorn with the 3.6 liter engine. I am having a recurring problem with my coolant bypass valve(or the software that controls it). I attempted to clear the code with my scanner. The code would be gone on the first start after clearing, but every time on the second start it would reappear and stay on. I tried this multiple times and always got the same result. I figured the valve must be faulty, so it replaced it. Unfortunately this didn’t solve anything. I brought the truck into my local Ram dealership, they supposedly did a software update and told me it was all set. I started the truck and before I even got out of the parking lot the CEL was on again! I’m not sure if the problem is valve not working, or just the computer thinking that the valve is not working. Furthermore, are there any adverse affects if the valve really isn’t working(other than me not being able to get a state inspection sticker) I know this problem has been discussed before, but none of the posts seem to have a real answer. Thanks in advance.
 

RamCares

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I have a 2014 Ram 1500 Bighorn with the 3.6 liter engine. I am having a recurring problem with my coolant bypass valve(or the software that controls it). I attempted to clear the code with my scanner. The code would be gone on the first start after clearing, but every time on the second start it would reappear and stay on. I tried this multiple times and always got the same result. I figured the valve must be faulty, so it replaced it. Unfortunately this didn’t solve anything. I brought the truck into my local Ram dealership, they supposedly did a software update and told me it was all set. I started the truck and before I even got out of the parking lot the CEL was on again! I’m not sure if the problem is valve not working, or just the computer thinking that the valve is not working. Furthermore, are there any adverse affects if the valve really isn’t working(other than me not being able to get a state inspection sticker) I know this problem has been discussed before, but none of the posts seem to have a real answer. Thanks in advance.


Hi Buddhaman,

Thank you for sharing your experience. We are sorry to hear that your vehicle has had this ongoing concern. Have you returned to the dealer since your concern came back?

Darlene
Ram Social Care Specialist
 

MP1SG

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KY
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2019 Ram 1500 Big Horn(wifes) 2020 Ram 3500 SRW Mega Cab(all mine)
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5.7 Litre, 6.7 diesel
i have the same problem with that code, i actually went almost 3 weeks with out the light coming on, but yesterday the CEL came back on ran the code and yep, 26AB yet again. As buddhaman asked above is there really any adverse effects on the bypass valve?
 

PoMansRam

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Hemi
There should be no adverse effects running with a faulty coolant bypass valve (3-way valve). All this valve does is bypass the heater core when the HVAC system is not set to heat mode. Best I can tell from looking at it anyway. Lol
 

v10enomous

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There should be no adverse effects running with a faulty coolant bypass valve (3-way valve). All this valve does is bypass the heater core when the HVAC system is not set to heat mode. Best I can tell from looking at it anyway. Lol

Well that's good to hear... I put about, 4,000 miles on since it first popped up but no one wants their check engine light coming on intermittently because you can't be sure that it's not something else if you don't read the codes. I was over 1,000 miles from home the last time the CEL came on. If their was a faulty batch of parts in 2013 then chances are that one got into my 2014. I hear it's a $700 repair... Sounds like it can cause the defroster not to work...

Chrysler Corporation’s RAM Trucks (formerly a part of the Dodge division, having being separated into its own brand by Sergio Marchionne) has announced a recall for their 2013 RAM pickup truck. In all, only 498 trucks are being recalled.

The newest issue concerns the coolant bypass valve, which could get stuck in a position that could prevent the coolant from flowing into the heater core. Over time, this could cause the defroster from working properly. More specifically, this is the windshield defroster, which if it fails to function, could increase the risk of the vehicle being involved in an accident.

This is the second RAM recall in recent history, the last one occurring last month for a parking brake cable that wasn’t set properly. The dealership’s technicians will replace the coolant valve at no charge. If you feel that your vehicle may be involved in this recall, you can contact your local RAM dealership.
 

PoMansRam

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The valve is easily accessible on the 3.6l powered 1500s.

Looks very easy to swap out, especially if you clamp off the 3 coolant hoses so you don't have to drain coolant.
 

Artie

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2013
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3.6
Just curious, my 26AB code says No DTC found?

75AF6C03-C985-417F-A6BD-50C3BBCADF84.jpeg
 

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