Cummins fault code 4159
SCR Temperature Sensor Module: bad device or component
What it means
Cummins' description: Aftertreatment Selective Catalytic Reduction Temperature Sensor Module - Bad intelligent device or component.
SPN 5743 is Aftertreatment Selective Catalytic Reduction Temperature Sensor Module. FMI 12 means a smart device or module reported that it has failed internally.
The SCR (selective catalytic reduction) catalyst uses DEF to turn NOx into nitrogen and water. The ECM compares NOx before and after the catalyst to judge how well it's working. If it isn't, EPA rules require the engine to warn the driver and then derate.
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.
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 one-time code with no lamp, or the amber lamp clears after a few drive cycles and fresh DEF.
Schedule a repair
Amber lamp with SCR efficiency or NOx codes that keep returning. Schedule diagnosis. These usually get worse, and inducement timers can be running in the background.
Stop and get help
Blinking lamp, inducement countdown, or the engine is already derated to low power or 5 mph. Stop and get it diagnosed. Clearing codes alone won't reset a real inducement.
Common causes
FMI 12 is an electrical or signal fault, so start with the circuit:
- SCR temperature sensor or sensor module failed
- Wiring or connector damage at the catalyst
- NOx sensor reporting bad data
If the circuit checks out, the reading may be real. Other possibilities: bad or diluted DEF, or not enough DEF being dosed; crystallized or clogged DEF doser; failing NOx sensor (very common).
What you can check before calling
- Check DEF level and quality first. It's the cheapest fix
- Look for exhaust leaks or soot tracks at clamps ahead of the catalyst
- Write down any countdown or derate message on the dash before it changes
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.
Same SPN, other failure types
- 4152 SPN 5743 FMI 9
SCR Temperature Sensor Module: abnormal update rate - 4164 SPN 5743 FMI 3
SCR Temperature Sensor Module: circuit voltage high / shorted high - 4165 SPN 5743 FMI 4
SCR Temperature Sensor Module: circuit voltage low / shorted low - 4166 SPN 5743 FMI 16
SCR Temperature Sensor Module: reading above normal (moderately severe) - 4261 SPN 5743 FMI 11
SCR Temperature Sensor Module: root cause not known
Related SCR catalyst and inducement codes
- 4489 SPN 5842 FMI 31
SCR Monitoring System Malfunction: condition exists - 3751 SPN 4792 FMI 7
SCR Catalyst System: not responding / out of adjustment - 4585 SPN 4792 FMI 14
SCR Catalyst System: special instructions - 4586 SPN 4339 FMI 31
SCR Feedback Control Status: condition exists - 3712 SPN 5246 FMI 0
SCR Operator Inducement: reading above normal (most severe) - 4658 SPN 4331 FMI 18
SCR Actual Dosing Reagent Quantity: reading below normal (moderately severe)
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 4159 mean?
Cummins fault code 4159 is J1939 SPN 5743 FMI 12: Aftertreatment Selective Catalytic Reduction Temperature Sensor Module - Bad intelligent device or component. In plain terms: scr temperature sensor module: bad device or component.
Can I keep driving with Cummins code 4159?
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 4159?
SPN 5743 identifies the part or system (Aftertreatment Selective Catalytic Reduction Temperature Sensor Module). FMI 12 describes the type of failure: bad device or component.
What usually causes Cummins code 4159?
The most common causes are: sCR temperature sensor or sensor module failed; wiring or connector damage at the catalyst; nOx sensor reporting bad data.
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.