Check Engine Fault

Google is your friend. It will tell the fmi, spn, and what not.

 

As many here have already noted, you have to know what code the ECM (electric control module) is giving. The codes are based on the type of engine and once you know the code you can know whether it's something as simple as topping off the coolant.

By the way, low coolant in my experience getting into an unfamiliar truck, is the most common reason for a check engine light. If the coolant in the reservoir gets below the Add line it gets below a senser that is plugged into the side of the reservoir.

What kind of engine is in your truck? You should have a manual in the truck. You can also find the plate on the engine that gives the brand, date of manufacture, serial number, displacement, horsepower, etc. Take a picture of that plate and post it on this thread.

Next, find out how to get the fault codes. There should be a way a driver can get the codes, with a series of pushing buttons on the dash. Write down the codes, then start a Google search or better yet find your engine fault code list, download it and keep it for future reference.

 

What good is knowing the code?

Fixing it is the problem matters, not knowing what it may be doesn't.

 

A driver should know what codes suggest a caution vs. what codes warn of impending engine damage.

 

That attitude might be what the average driver has today. Considering all they want to do is call or use the QC and tell them hey my truck is broke, please come fix it. When I had a problem with a warning light I wanted to know if it was something I needed to FIX ASAP or was it something I could roll with and get looked at my next time getting a PM. I used to have a truck with a Detroit series 60 in it. For over 6 months just about every day after about 4 hours the ECM would throw a code 51. The engine would still run with full power. because I knew the code I could always make sure it was the 51 and ignored it. I also had another issue with that same engine when I got a code 43, turns out the sensor was bad and because I knew the code and visually checked the fluid level the mechanic knew to bring a replacement sensor. If a driver gets an engine warning light they should at the very least know what is wrong. This way they can get with their company and decide what is next.