What Is SPN 5246 FMI 15 Code? (Cascadia, Volvo, Cat)
It seems that whoever made up this code system, decided to put a code for the codes. What that means is if you are driving under another code too far, this code will appear and tell you that you are in deeper trouble.
This code depends on the model year but its main function Severity status of the operator inducement system for anomalies with the SCR system, such as tampering, low DEF quality, and DEF tank level. Higher numerical levels indicate more severe levels of inducement. FMI 15 means you could be derated.
To learn more about these fault codes, just continue to read our article. It has the information you want to know about so you understand the codes you are seeing. You may also need the DDDL program to monitor the readings.
What is SPN 5246 FMI 15 Code?
This may depend on the brand of vehicle you are driving. While car & truck makers share the SPN FMI codes, they are not always the same. For example, in one 2011 model of truck, the code presents itself as follows:
“this code sets when the vehicle has been driven for 30 miles while a code is present for the DEF tank level, DEF metering valve, DEF pump, NOx sensors, Blocked DEF line, DEF quality, NOx efficiency, SCR harness and/or SCR sensor.” (source)
For the 2010 model of the same truck, the code comes on for the same reasons but only after driving 10 hours or 500 miles with a code on. Generally, though, the codes are targeting similar systems just some minor changes in what they are monitoring.
What your main concern will be is when you see this code, expect it to be derated quickly.
SPN 5246 FMI 15 Cascadia
For the 2014 model, this code is telling you that you are in a derate mode. The solution is to do a complete regen. Then, the information provided above for the 2011 and 2010 models applies here as well.
The reason you are sent into derate is that you ignored another fault code for some time. This is a code for all other codes as it is watching to see if you fix the problem for the original code or not.
This code is always enabled as is its frequency. It is something that may not be turned off unless you know a trick or two. Here are the instructions to handle this problem:
1. Connect DiagnosticLink® . Go to step 2.
2. Check for other emission-related fault codes. Are there any Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) or Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) related fault codes present?
If Yes; diagnose and repair the emission-related fault codes first. Verify repair.
If No; perform the Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) efficiency test or high idle regeneration. Use DiagnosticLink to clear the code
SPN 5246 FMI 15 Volvo D13
This is what the Volvo Data sheet has to say about this code:
ECM SPN 5246, Aftertreatment SCR Operator Inducement Severity – MID
128 PSID 46
Data valid but above normal operating range - Least severe level
Moderate SCR system fault detected – Warning fault- Moderate engine derate.
There is no source for this code appearing. That may be because it monitors the other codes to see if they were addressed or ignored. The FMI code you really have to worry about is 0.
The reason for that is that you will get a severe engine derate when it appears. A possible fix if you have changed everything else would be clean out the EGR cooler and sensor tubes and check soot and carbon buildup.
If the problem presents itself when you are going uphill, then you should try to look to see if the EGR system is plugged up with soot and potential exhaust restriction with a plugged converter.
Check the DEF system and look for leaks as well as check the suction side of the pump to see if there is a problem picking up the fluid. If you want, you can go to the dealer where you bought the truck and see what they can do for you.
Cat Code SPN 5246 FMI 15
This code is going to be similar to the other SPN 5246 FMI 15 codes. Your engine is about to go into a derate mode because there is a problem in your SCR system that has been ignored.
The problem has to do with the SCR not being able to regulate the emissions properly. You cannot delete the DEF in your engine because that will trigger a lot more codes until you reprogram the ECR or other control modules.
There may not be many people who would be willing to do that for you. If the FMI part of the code upgrades to 16, then you will be going into a more severe derate because the SCR problem was not fixed.
We did not find this code listed in the CAT C13, C15, and C18 Tier 4 Final Engine Fault Codes data sheet. But you should talk to an experienced CAT mechanic to make sure what you should do about this code if you do see it on your screen.
You will know when you are going into derate mode because the red stop engine light will illuminate and let you know. If you are in this mode, you will have to go to a dealer and get them to clear the codes for you.
Some Final Words
Codes are your friends. They let you know when there is a problem and they warn you when you have taken too long to fix the original source for the code. If you want to avoid this code, do not ignore the other codes for the SCR.
Get them fixed and you should avoid being derated when you can least afford to be derated. The way to clear the codes is to go to your dealer and have them do it for you.
