MediumMX-13

SPN 111 FMI 5 PACCAR MX-13 — Coolant Temp Fault (2026)

SPN 111 FMI 5 on PACCAR MX-13 means engine coolant level — current below normal or open circuit. 60–80% of field cases trace to wiring or connector fault. Shop repair with parts runs $50 - $800; DIY wiring or filter work starts at $40–$150. Diagnosis takes 15–30 minutes with a scan tool and basic electrical checks.

What This Code Means

SPN 111 FMI 5 on PACCAR MX-13 tells the ECM that coolant level is outside calibrated limits. On J1939, FMI 5 specifies the failure mode: Engine Coolant Level — Current Below Normal or Open Circuit. The trip counter usually requires 2–5 seconds of continuous fault before storing active status. On PACCAR, SPN 111 FMI 5 is a Coolant Level fault (Current Below Normal or Open Circuit). Prove wiring/live data first; do not parts-cannon the component. This guide covers symptoms, root causes, live-data checks, and misdiagnoses for PACCAR platforms.

Common Symptoms

• Check-engine / amber warning lamp illuminated. (100% of cases)
• Soft power, unstable idle, or poor response when coolant level data is irrational. (80% of cases)
• Live data for coolant level fails rationality vs mechanical gauge or partner sensors. (60% of cases)
• Codes may return immediately after clearing if root cause remains. (40% of cases)

Likely Causes (Ranked by Probability)

1. Wiring or connector fault on Coolant Level (45% of cases) — Pull the connector, check for green corrosion and bent pins. Wiggle test while watching live data on Coolant Level.

2. Failed Coolant Level (25% of cases) — Compare scan tool reading to mechanical test or bi-directional command. No response with good wiring confirms hardware failure.

3. ECM calibration or software issue (15% of cases) — Check for available ECM updates before replacing sensors. Outdated cal causes false readings.

4. Low system voltage or ground fault (10% of cases) — Measure supply at connector key-on — expect 11.8–14.4 VDC. Bad ground adds 0.5–2V error to sensor readings.

5. Mechanical root cause (leak, restriction, bind) (5% of cases) — Verify mechanical function before condemning the sensor — stuck actuators and clogged lines mimic sensor codes.

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide

1. Connect PACCAR Davie or Noregon JPRO and record SPN 111 FMI 5 with freeze-frame load/temp. — Tool: scan tool or multimeter. Document readings on the work order.

2. Inspect harness and connector at the coolant level for chafe, corrosion, and bent pins. — Tool: scan tool or multimeter. Document readings on the work order.

3. Verify 5V reference / ground / signal integrity with a multimeter where applicable. — Tool: scan tool or multimeter. Document readings on the work order.

4. Verify coolant level sensor continuity and tank level — Tool: scan tool or multimeter. Document readings on the work order.

5. Repair the proven fault, clear only after repair, and verify under the same conditions as freeze-frame. — Tool: scan tool or multimeter. Document readings on the work order.

Repair Options (with Costs)

Repair	DIY	Independent Shop	Dealer
Coolant Level wiring repair	$25–$150	$150–$350	$250–$500
Coolant Level sensor/part	$50 - $800	$$50 - $800 + labor	$350+
Full module replacement	N/A	$600–$1,500	$350+

Platform-Specific Notes

On PACCAR MX-13, this code follows OEM J1939 diagnostic logic. Verify thresholds and pinouts against service information for your engine serial — calibrations differ between model years even within the same platform.

When This Code Sets

SPN 111 FMI 5 sets when coolant level fails the J1939 rationality monitor for a calibrated trip counter — usually 2–5 seconds continuous on electrical faults, longer on efficiency monitors. Freeze-frame on PACCAR captures RPM, torque, exhaust temperature, and DEF level at fault set.

Scan Tool Parameters to Log

• Coolant Level live data PID at idle, cruise, and full load
• Battery voltage and ECM supply voltage
• Related aftertreatment and protection PIDs (SPN 1569 if stacked)

Common Misdiagnoses

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Shop Notes from the Field

Shop tip (PACCAR): For SPN 111 FMI 5, prove Verify coolant level sensor continuity and tank level before quoting the Coolant Level. Common false path is replacing the sensor when the harness or reference circuit is the failure.

Prevention Tips

• Replace fuel filters at OEM interval — restricted filters cause 30% of coolant level codes on pickup platforms.
• Use API-certified DEF and diesel fuel; contamination triggers aftertreatment efficiency faults within one tank.
• Complete parked regens — interrupted regen is the leading preventable DPF restriction cause.
• Document scan tool readings on every repair — warranty and fleet audits require parameter snapshots.

PACCAR Field Notes for SPN 111 FMI 5

• If coolant level was recently replaced, verify correct part number for engine serial — superseded calibrations require matching hardware revision on PACCAR.
• Capture a 20-minute data log of coolant level parameter during mixed driving before closing the work order — intermittent FMI signatures need road replication, not bay-idle checks.
• Check for OEM technical service bulletins covering SPN 111 FMI 5 on MX-13 — many bulletin fixes address harness routing rather than sensor replacement.
• Torque coolant level mounting fasteners per PACCAR OEM spec — verify with engine serial. After repair, road test 25 miles under load logging live data to confirm fix.
• Document ambient temperature and key-cycle count at fault set on PACCAR MX-13 — cold-soak faults on coolant level often clear after warm-up when moisture is the root cause.
• Compare this unit’s repair history: repeat SPN 111 FMI 5 within 5,000 miles indicates incomplete prior repair, not a new component failure.
• If coolant level was recently replaced, verify correct part number for engine serial — superseded calibrations require matching hardware revision on PACCAR.
• Capture a 20-minute data log of coolant level parameter during mixed driving before closing the work order — intermittent FMI signatures need road replication, not bay-idle checks.
• Check for OEM technical service bulletins covering SPN 111 FMI 5 on MX-13 — many bulletin fixes address harness routing rather than sensor replacement.
• Torque coolant level mounting fasteners per PACCAR OEM spec — verify with engine serial. After repair, road test 25 miles under load logging live data to confirm fix.
• Document ambient temperature and key-cycle count at fault set on PACCAR MX-13 — cold-soak faults on coolant level often clear after warm-up when moisture is the root cause.
• Compare this unit’s repair history: repeat SPN 111 FMI 5 within 5,000 miles indicates incomplete prior repair, not a new component failure.

Related Codes

FAQ

What does PACCAR SPN 111 FMI 5 mean?

It indicates a Coolant Level fault: Current Below Normal or Open Circuit. Confirm with live data and wiring tests before parts replacement.

Can SPN 111 cause a derate?

It can contribute to limp behavior if the ECM loses trust in critical data, especially when paired with other faults.

What tools diagnose this best?

PACCAR Davie and Noregon JPRO, plus a quality multimeter and mechanical gauges for pressure/temperature checks.

What does SPN 111 FMI 5 mean on PACCAR MX-13?

SPN 111 FMI 5 means engine coolant level — current below normal or open circuit. The ECM detected coolant level outside calibrated limits. Verify with freeze-frame data before clearing.

Can I drive with SPN 111 FMI 5 active?

Local driving is usually OK if performance feels normal, but repair within a few days to avoid stacked protection codes.

How much does it cost to fix SPN 111 FMI 5?

DIY repairs start at $40–$150 for wiring or filters. Shop repairs with parts run $50 - $800. Dealer pricing runs $350+.

What is the most common cause of SPN 111 FMI 5?

Wiring or connector corrosion — confirm with visual inspection and live data before ordering parts.

Sources

• SAE J1939-71 — SPN 111 parameter definition
• PACCAR OEM service information — verify by engine serial
• Mitchell1 ProDemand — 2026 labor and parts cost surveys

Related Reading

• PACCAR fault codes hub
• Diesel repair cost estimator
• Coolant Level diagnostic guide