M55

Deutz-Fahr M55 – Engine ECU (EMR): Engine Coolant Temperature Short Circuit

Issue description

The engine control module has detected a short circuit in the coolant temperature sensor circuit (FMI 3: Short to +12V, FMI 4: Short to Ground). The controller receives an implausible voltage signal and cannot accurately determine the engine's operating temperature, which may lead to engine derating or default fueling strategies.

Applies to these machines

  • Series 5
  • 5D VSF TTV
  • Virtus
  • Nitro
  • Agrofarm

Check the cause

  1. Inspect the wiring harness running from the Engine ECU to the coolant temperature sensor for chafed insulation, pinched wires, or rubbing against the hot engine block.

  2. Disconnect the sensor and inspect the electrical connector for water ingress, corrosion, or pushed-out/bent pins that could bridge connections.

  3. With the battery disconnected and ECU harness unplugged, use a multimeter to test the sensor's signal wire for continuity to ground (chassis) or to the 12V power supply lines.

  4. Measure the resistance across the pins of the coolant temperature sensor itself. If the multimeter reads 0 ohms, the sensor is internally shorted and must be replaced.

Repair steps

  1. Preparation

    Turn off the tractor, remove the key, and disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental electrical spikes.

  2. Locate the Sensor

    Locate the coolant temperature sensor, which is threaded into the engine block or thermostat housing (its tip sits directly in the coolant passage).

  3. Disconnect

    Unplug the electrical connector from the sensor.

  4. Drain/Catch Coolant

    Place a clean catch pan under the engine. Be prepared for coolant to spill when the sensor is removed.

  5. Remove the Sensor

    Use a deep socket or wrench to carefully unthread the faulty sensor from the block.

  6. Install the New Sensor

    Thread the new OEM coolant temperature sensor into the housing. Tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque (do not overtighten, as the brass threads can break).

  7. Reconnect

    Plug the electrical harness back into the sensor, ensuring the locking tab clicks into place.

  8. Refill Coolant

    Top off the engine coolant reservoir to replace any fluid lost during the swap.

  9. Clear Codes

    Reconnect the battery and turn the ignition on. To permanently clear the history, you may need to use the Deutz SerDia diagnostic software.

Parts you might need

(6)
  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

    04213839

    Replaces older part 04199809. Very common on Deutz TCD 3.6, BFM1013, and BFM2012 engines.

  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

    04199809

    Older part replaced by 04213839.

  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

    04216425

    Widely used on Deutz TCD 3.6 engines.

  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

    04210196

    Used on various Deutz Tier 4 engine applications.

  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

    04210188

    Used on various Deutz Tier 4 engine applications.

  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

    4258759

    Common for Deutz 2011 series engines.

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