John Deere 111.18 – ECU: Engine Coolant Level Switch Shows Low Coolant Level
Issue description
This code is triggered when the engine coolant drops below the safe threshold of the loss switch while the engine is operating at moderate temperatures (typically greater than 60°C / 140°F).
Applies to these machines
44 machines- 5085E
- 5090E
- 5090EL
- 5100E
- 5085M
- 5100M
- 5100MH
- 5100ML
- 5115ML
- 5090M
- 5115M
- 6110M
- 6120M
- 6130M
- 6145M
- 6155M
- 6175M
- 6195M
- 6110R
- 6120R
- 6130R
- 6145R
- 6155R
- 6175R
- 6195R
- 6215R
- 5E Series
- 5M Series
- 6M Series
- 6R Series
- 7R Series
- 8R Series
- 8RT Series
- 8RX Series
- 9R Series
- 850K
- 1050K
- 260E
- 370E
- 460E
- 130G
- 210G
- 7760
- WTS Combines
Check the cause
Visually inspect the coolant level in the header tank/reservoir to confirm if it is actually low
If the coolant is low (genuine leak cause): Inspect the entire cooling system for leaks, including the radiator, hoses, water pump seals, and head gasket
If the coolant level is full (sensor/wiring cause): Check the sensor's electrical connector and wiring harness for corrosion, damage, or short circuits
Repair steps
Cool Down
Turn off the engine and allow it to cool completely to avoid burns from pressurized, hot coolant.
Top Up (If Applicable)
If the coolant is simply low, fill the coolant to the maximum line and monitor the machine for leaks. If the code clears, no further repair is needed.
Drain Coolant (If replacing sensor)
If the sensor is faulty, drain the coolant reservoir below the level of the sensor to prevent spilling.
Remove the Faulty Sensor
Disconnect the electrical harness from the coolant level switch/sensor. Unthread or unclip the old sensor from the reservoir.
Install the New Sensor
Install the replacement sensor into the tank and reconnect the electrical harness.
Refill and Test
Refill the coolant to the proper level. Turn the ignition key on. In many cases, the code will resolve itself upon startup, or you may need to clear the DTCs via the CommandCenter display or a diagnostic scan tool.
Parts you might need
(4)Coolant Level Switch
AL201300This is the most common switch, fitting a massive range of 6M, 6R, 7R, 8R, 9R tractors, as well as K-series dozers, G-series excavators, and E-series dump trucks.
Coolant Level Sensor
DZ104198Commonly used on 4.5L, 6.8L, and 9.0L PowerTech marine and industrial engines.
Liquid Level Probe
RE503242Radiator Coolant Level Sensor
AT169418
Get help to fix this fault by requesting a quote