DD15 high/ low fuel pressure issue

Discussion in 'Freightliner Forum' started by knighthawk2020, Jun 26, 2026.

  1. knighthawk2020

    knighthawk2020 Bobtail Member

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    Sep 30, 2020
    0
    Please read the whole post before suggesting a possible fix

    2019 cascadia DD15 593K miles

    I have had my truck at 2 different shops for the code pictured (520268 18 /16& 157 18/16)
    Both ran through Detroits series of events sheet (or whatever you wanna call that paper) to determine the problem, only as soon as the codes are cleared, they don't come back thus them saying sorry we can't do anything and I walk out the door, with nothing new.

    Symptoms
    If code 157 (18 or 16) appears truck is derated to 25% power/45 mph/900 rpm/no engine brake(high idles when parked at 750 rpm) (almost makes a whirring noise, but not sure how to explain it, I can't capture it on video
    If code only 520268 18 (or 16) appears the only thing I've noticed is it'll "surge" during driving like it's struggling to get fuel, then boom has all the fuel in the world
    (Only code 157 16/18 derates the truck)
    Very rarely, upon start up, it has the "fuel pump going out "chirp"" & it doesn't last but a few minutes
    Surging idle happens quite often, but not daily

    The codes do not appear daily, I can go weeks without one appearing or sometimes I'll have them happen multiple times in a day

    When the codes do happen, I can hit the shoulder, turn off truck & cut the power, and restart and all codes and symptoms are gone.
    Thus my issue with taking it to a shop.

    Quantity control valve was replaced in March prior to me getting the truck. (Have repair order)

    There's no metal particles in either fuel filter/ filter basket

    I want to get this fixed but without throwing a #### ton of wasted money in useless diagnostic fees (as soon as the codes are cleared, the truck is fine)
     

    Attached Files:

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  3. JB7

    JB7 Road Train Member

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    Dec 13, 2022
    Laurel, MD
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    dd 15 code 157 16/18 - Search
    As you have both FMI 16 Low Pressure and FMI 18 High pressure it could be the sensor, wiring, or module.
    upload_2026-6-26_16-31-35.png

    I would check the wiring and connection at the rail pressure sensor. If there are any specs for the sensor such as ohms check that. Next would be to try a new OEM rail pressure sensor.

    DD15 code 520268 18 (or 16) - Search

    Detroit DD13/15/16 I6 Engine Sensor Locations – TroubleCodes.net
    #2 is the rail pressure sensor. After codes are cleared can also try this. With truck running wiggle the wires going to the sensor and the connector and see if the code sets. Also work your way back from the sensor and move/lightly pull and push the harness.
     
    Last edited: Jun 26, 2026
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