Cummins fault code · NOx sensors

Cummins fault code 3717

Outlet NOx Sensor: out of calibration

J1939 SPN3226
FMI13
LampAmber warning lamp
SystemNOx sensors

What it means

Cummins' description: Aftertreatment 1 Outlet NOx Sensor - Out of Calibration.

SPN 3226 is Aftertreatment 1 Outlet NOx. FMI 13 means the component or software calibration doesn't match what the ECM expects.

NOx sensors sit in the exhaust before and after the SCR catalyst. They measure nitrogen oxides so the ECM can control DEF dosing and confirm emissions are under control. Each sensor has its own small control module and talks over the J1939 network.

What the lamp means

An amber (yellow) warning lamp means the engine can usually keep running, but the fault should be repaired soon, ideally the same day.

How serious is it?

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.

Green

Keep an eye on it

A NOx code shows up once with no lamp, often during cold start or warm-up, and clears.

Yellow

Schedule a repair

Amber lamp with a NOx sensor code that keeps coming back. It's typically a sensor replacement, and it should be done before it triggers SCR inducement.

Red

Stop and get help

NOx codes alongside a derate or inducement countdown. Get it in now. The truck will keep losing power until the emissions system reads correctly.

Common causes

The sensor reading itself is out of range or the condition is real, so look at the system:

  • Aging NOx sensor reading wrong
  • Exhaust leak near the sensor
  • Real high NOx from an EGR, DEF or SCR problem
  • Sensor contaminated by oil or coolant

What you can check before calling

  • Look for exhaust leaks or soot near the sensor locations
  • Check the sensor connectors and that the sensor modules are mounted and dry
  • Note whether other SCR or DEF codes are active at the same time

Clearing the code without fixing the cause usually brings it right back, and on emissions systems it can restart derate timers. For the bigger picture, read our guide: DEF warning lights and derate: what diesel drivers need to know.

Engines and sources

Listed by Cummins for: QSB 6.7, QSL 9, QSX 15, QSB 4.5, QSF 3.8 (With SCR), 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.

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 3717 mean?

Cummins fault code 3717 is J1939 SPN 3226 FMI 13: Aftertreatment 1 Outlet NOx Sensor - Out of Calibration. In plain terms: outlet nox sensor: out of calibration.

Can I keep driving with Cummins code 3717?

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 3717?

SPN 3226 identifies the part or system (Aftertreatment 1 Outlet NOx). FMI 13 describes the type of failure: out of calibration.

What usually causes Cummins code 3717?

The most common causes are: aging NOx sensor reading wrong; exhaust leak near the sensor; real high NOx from an EGR, DEF or SCR problem.

Diesel down in the Midlands?

We work on Cummins-powered pickups, vans and medium-duty trucks across Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, on site at your yard or roadside.

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