SPN 5246: Aftertreatment SCR Operator Inducement Severity - ZIPtuning Blog (2024)

Fault code SPN 5246 is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that indicates an issue with the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system in diesel engines. When this code appears, it's crucial to understand its urgency, causes, and steps for diagnosis and repair.

In our workshop, we've encountered Fault Code SPN 5246 quite frequently across various car makes. With American brands like Cummins and Detroit Diesel, we've seen this code pop up due to issues with the DEF system, such as clogged lines or faulty sensors. Asian brands like Hino and Isuzu have also had their fair share of SPN 5246, often related to DEF quality or dosing valve problems. However, we've noticed that European makes, particularly Mercedes-Benz and Volvo trucks, seem to be more prone to this fault code. Just last week, we had a Mercedes Actros in with SPN 5246 FMI 16, which turned out to be a failing DEF pump. A few months back, a Volvo FH12 came in with the same code, and we traced it to a malfunctioning NOx sensor. From our experience, while SPN 5246 can occur across all makes, European trucks tend to be more susceptible to this fault, requiring extra attention to their DEF systems.

Urgency and Driving Considerations

When the SPN 5246 fault code is triggered, it typically results in a derate condition, limiting the vehicle's speed to around 5 mph (8 km/h). Continuing to drive with this code active is not recommended, as it can cause further damage to the DEF system and lead to more severe engine derates or shutdowns.

Upon encountering this code, it's advisable to stop driving and have the vehicle towed to a dealer or qualified repair shop for proper diagnosis and repair.

Code Details and Applicability

SPN 5246 is a general fault code that applies to various makes and models of diesel vehicles equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. However, the specific fault mode identifier (FMI) associated with the code may vary depending on the manufacturer.

Some common FMIs associated with SPN 5246 include:

• FMI 0: Derate status
• FMI 15: Current below normal
• FMI 16: Current above normal

Parts Involved and Their Roles

The main components involved in triggering SPN 5246 are:

1. DEF Pump: Responsible for pressurizing and delivering DEF to the SCR system.
2. DEF Injector: Injects DEF into the exhaust stream to reduce NOx emissions.
3. DEF Tank and Level Sensor: Stores DEF and monitors its level.
4. SCR Catalyst: Converts NOx into harmless nitrogen and water using DEF.

Common Causes

Some common causes of SPN 5246 include:

• Faulty DEF pump or injector
• Clogged DEF lines or filters
• Low DEF quality or contamination
• Malfunctioning DEF level sensor
• Damaged wiring or connectors

Diagnosis and Repair Steps

1. Retrieve fault codes using a diagnostic scanner and check for related codes like SPN 4334 or SPN 4339.
2. Inspect DEF tank level and quality. Replace DEF if contaminated or low quality.
3. Check DEF lines and filters for clogs or damage. Clean or replace as needed.
4. Test DEF pump pressure and injector operation. Replace faulty components.
5. Verify proper wiring and connector integrity. Repair or replace damaged wiring.
6. Clear fault codes and perform a test drive to confirm the repair.

Prevention and Costs

To prevent SPN 5246, maintain the DEF system by:

• Using high-quality DEF that meets ISO 22241 standards
• Regularly inspecting DEF lines, filters, and components
• Addressing any related fault codes promptly

Repair costs for SPN 5246 can vary depending on the specific cause and components involved. Expect to pay:

• DEF Pump: $500-$1,500 (€450-€1,350)
• DEF Injector: $300-$800 (€270-€720)
• DEF Tank and Sensor: $400-$1,000 (€360-€900)
• Labor: $100-$200 (€90-€180) per hour

Other fault codes commonly found alongside SPN 5246 include:

• SPN 4334: DEF Pressure Too Low
• SPN 4339: DEF Pressure Too High
• SPN 4364 FMI 18: DEF Injector Circuit

By understanding SPN 5246, its causes, and the proper diagnostic and repair procedures, engineers and mechanics can effectively address this fault code and keep diesel vehicles running efficiently.

FAQ: Fault Code SPN 5246

What is Fault Code SPN 5246?

Fault Code SPN 5246 is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that indicates an issue with the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system in diesel engines equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems.

What are the symptoms of SPN 5246?

When SPN 5246 is triggered, it typically results in a derate condition, limiting the vehicle’s speed to around 5 mph (8 km/h). Other symptoms may include illuminated warning lights (MIL, check engine, stop engine) and the need to perform a regeneration.

Is it safe to continue driving with SPN 5246?

No, it is not recommended to continue driving with SPN 5246 active. Doing so can cause further damage to the DEF system and lead to more severe engine derates or shutdowns. It’s best to stop driving and have the vehicle towed to a dealer or qualified repair shop.

What are the common causes of SPN 5246?

Common causes of SPN 5246 include faulty DEF pump or injector, clogged DEF lines or filters, low DEF quality or contamination, malfunctioning DEF level sensor, and damaged wiring or connectors.

What are the steps to diagnose SPN 5246?

1. Retrieve fault codes using a diagnostic scanner and check for related codes.
2. Inspect DEF tank level and quality. Replace DEF if contaminated or low quality.
3. Check DEF lines and filters for clogs or damage. Clean or replace as needed.
4. Test DEF pump pressure and injector operation. Replace faulty components.
5. Verify proper wiring and connector integrity. Repair or replace damaged wiring.

How can I clear SPN 5246?

To clear SPN 5246, you must first diagnose and repair the underlying issue causing the fault code. Once the repair is complete, clear the fault codes using a diagnostic scanner and perform a test drive to confirm the repair.

What are the repair costs for SPN 5246?

Repair costs for SPN 5246 can vary depending on the specific cause and components involved. Expect to pay $500-$1,500 (€450-€1,350) for a DEF pump, $300-$800 (€270-€720) for a DEF injector, $400-$1,000 (€360-€900) for a DEF tank and sensor, and $100-$200 (€90-€180) per hour for labor.

What is the difference between SPN 5246 FMI 0, FMI 15, and FMI 16?

• FMI 0 indicates a derate status.
• FMI 15 indicates current below normal.
• FMI 16 indicates current above normal.

What other fault codes are commonly associated with SPN 5246?

Other fault codes commonly found alongside SPN 5246 include SPN 4334 (DEF Pressure Too Low), SPN 4339 (DEF Pressure Too High), and SPN 4364 FMI 18 (DEF Injector Circuit).

What components are involved in triggering SPN 5246?

The main components involved in triggering SPN 5246 are the DEF pump, DEF injector, DEF tank and level sensor, and SCR catalyst.

How can I prevent SPN 5246 from occurring?

To prevent SPN 5246, maintain the DEF system by using high-quality DEF that meets ISO 22241 standards, regularly inspecting DEF lines, filters, and components, and addressing any related fault codes promptly.

What is the role of the DEF pump in the SCR system?

The DEF pump is responsible for pressurizing and delivering DEF to the SCR system.

What does the DEF injector do?

The DEF injector injects DEF into the exhaust stream to reduce NOx emissions.

What is the purpose of the DEF tank and level sensor?

The DEF tank stores DEF, while the level sensor monitors its level.

How does the SCR catalyst work?

The SCR catalyst converts NOx into harmless nitrogen and water using DEF.

What is a derate condition, and how does it relate to SPN 5246?

A derate condition is when the engine’s performance is intentionally reduced to protect the system from further damage. In the case of SPN 5246, the derate typically limits the vehicle’s speed to around 5 mph (8 km/h).

What is a regeneration, and why is it necessary when dealing with SPN 5246?

A regeneration is a process that burns off accumulated soot in the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and helps to restore the SCR system’s efficiency. Performing a high idle regeneration is often necessary when dealing with SPN 5246 and related fault codes.

What is the importance of using high-quality DEF?

Using high-quality DEF that meets ISO 22241 standards is crucial for maintaining the proper function of the SCR system and preventing issues like SPN 5246. Low-quality or contaminated DEF can cause damage to the system and trigger fault codes.

How often should I inspect the DEF system components?

It’s recommended to inspect the DEF lines, filters, and components regularly, such as during routine maintenance or when related fault codes appear, to catch and address any issues early on.

What should I do if I suspect an issue with the DEF system?

If you suspect an issue with the DEF system, it’s best to have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified technician as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem can lead to more severe damage and costly repairs.