Cummins fault code 319
Real Time Clock: erratic or intermittent signal
What it means
Cummins' description: Real Time Clock - Data erratic, intermittent or incorrect.
SPN 251 is Real Time Clock. FMI 2 means the signal is jumping around, dropping in and out, or doesn't make sense compared to other readings.
The engine ECM talks to the transmission, ABS, dash and aftertreatment modules over the J1939 data network. These codes mean the ECM itself, its calibration, or its communication with other modules has a problem.
What the lamp means
A blinking amber lamp usually relates to emissions system warnings such as DEF or SCR inducement. Ignoring it can lead to a speed or power derate.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
The same code can be a quick fix or a reason to shut down. Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
A network timeout logged once, often during cranking, that cleared.
Schedule a repair
Gauges dropping out, the transmission or ABS acting odd, or codes returning. Book diagnosis. These can go from annoying to stranded quickly.
Stop and get help
Red lamp for an ECM internal failure, or the engine won't start or shuts down. Get it towed or seen where it sits.
Common causes
The sensor reading itself is out of range or the condition is real, so look at the system:
- ECM calibration doesn't match the vehicle or another module
- ECM internal failure
What you can check before calling
- Note which other systems acted up: gauges, transmission, ABS
- Check for recent electrical work or aftermarket devices plugged into the diagnostic port
- Check batteries and grounds
Clearing the code without fixing the cause usually brings it right back, and on emissions systems it can restart derate timers.
Engines and sources
Listed by Cummins for: QSG 12. Cummins uses the same fault code numbers across its electronic engines, including on-highway models like the ISB/B6.7, ISL/L9 and ISX/X15, though not every code applies to every engine or software level. Source: Cummins Tier 4 Fault Codes. Always confirm with Cummins service information (QuickServe) for your engine serial number.
Related ECM, network and data link codes
- 299 SPN 1384 FMI 31
Engine Shutdown Commanded by J1939: condition exists - 341 SPN 630 FMI 2
ECM: erratic or intermittent signal - 342 SPN 630 FMI 13
ECM: out of calibration - 343 SPN 629 FMI 12
ECM Warning Internal Hardware Failure: bad device or component - 346 SPN 630 FMI 12
ECM: bad device or component - 291 SPN 625 FMI 9
Proprietary Datalink Error (OEM/Vehicle Datalink): abnormal update rate
Look up another code
Cummins fault code (like 1922), J1939 SPN and FMI (like SPN 3251 FMI 0), or an OBD-II code (like P0420).
Questions
What does Cummins fault code 319 mean?
Cummins fault code 319 is J1939 SPN 251 FMI 2: Real Time Clock - Data erratic, intermittent or incorrect. In plain terms: real time clock: erratic or intermittent signal.
Can I keep driving with Cummins code 319?
Usually for a short time, if the engine runs normally and no other warnings are on. Get it diagnosed soon, because many amber codes lead to a derate if ignored. Look at the green, yellow and red examples on this page to judge your situation.
What is the SPN and FMI for Cummins code 319?
SPN 251 identifies the part or system (Real Time Clock). FMI 2 describes the type of failure: erratic or intermittent signal.
What usually causes Cummins code 319?
The most common causes are: eCM calibration doesn't match the vehicle or another module; eCM internal failure.

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