John Deere 3246 – Engine Control Unit (ECU): DPF Outlet Temperature Extremely High

The exhaust filter temperature module has detected that the temperature of the exhaust gases exiting the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is extremely high and above the normal operating range. When this code is active, the engine control system will limit engine power and disable active exhaust filter cleaning (regeneration) to prevent catastrophic damage to the aftertreatment system.

• 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
• 7210R
• 7230R
• 7250R
• 7270R
• 7290R
• 7310R
• 8310RT
• 8335RT
• 8360RT
• 9470RT
• 9520RT
• 9570RT
• 6105M
• 7760 Cotton Picker
• S660
• S670
• S680
• S690
• 210G
• 250GLC
• 290GLC
• 750K
• 850K
• 655K
• 755K
• 624K
• 644K
• 724K
• 670G
• 770G

1. 1

   Check ECU software version for available updates (e.g., SW60454M / SW60455M) to prevent false setting of the code

2. 2

   Inspect the DPF outlet temperature sensor and its associated wiring harness for physical damage, melting, or high resistance

3. 3

   Check for related diagnostic codes like 3246.12 (DPF Outlet Temperature Fault/Error) or 3251.xx (DPF Differential Pressure issues) which may indicate a failed sensor reading artificially high

4. 4

   Inspect the engine cooling system for contamination or overheating, which can contribute to excessive exhaust temperatures

1. 1

   Reduce Load

   Immediately reduce the load and speed of the engine to prevent damage to the DPF.

2. 2

   Power Cycle

   Turn the ignition key off, wait, and turn it back on (or follow instructions on the CommandCenter™ display) to see if the code clears, as it may be a temporary glitch.

3. 3

   Sensor Calibration/Replacement

   If the code persists, use a diagnostic scanner to read the live data from the DPF outlet temperature sensor. If the sensor is not providing accurate readings (e.g., reading extremely high when the exhaust is cold), recalibrate or replace the sensor.

4. 4

   Investigate Upstream Causes

   If the sensor is accurate, the high temperature is real. Investigate upstream causes such as a turbocharger actuator fault, fuel dosing injector issues (leaking fuel into the exhaust), or a heavily overloaded DPF.

5. 5

   Clear Codes and Reset

   After repairs or sensor replacement, clear any stored error codes and reset the system.

6. 6

   System Check

   Run a system check or a stationary forced regeneration to confirm that the DPF outlet temperature is being measured accurately and remains within safe operating limits.