John Deere 3517.07 – Engine Control Unit (ECU): DEF Tank Fluid Level Sensor Obstructed

Triggered when the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank level sensor detects debris or a physical obstruction that prevents it from accurately measuring the fluid level.

• 5085E
• 5090E
• 5090EL
• 5100E
• 5090M
• 5100M
• 5100MH
• 5100ML
• 5115M
• 6110M
• 6120M
• 6130M
• 6145M
• 6155M
• 6175M
• 6195M
• 6110R
• 6120R
• 6130R
• 6145R
• 6155R
• 6175R
• 6195R
• 6215R
• 9470RT
• 9520RT
• 9570RT
• 6105M
• 8RT 370
• 6230R
• 6250R
• R4030
• R4038
• R4044
• R4045
• R4060
• F4365
• T550
• T560
• T660
• T670
• W540
• W550
• 130G
• 160GLC
• 180GLC
• 210GLC
• 250GLC
• 300GLC
• 350GLC
• 380GLC

1. 1

   Inspect the DEF Level Sensor inside the DEF tank for physical damage, wear, or visible debris/crystallization obstructing the float or sensor mechanism

2. 2

   Verify DEF fluid quality using a refractometer to ensure concentration is approximately 32.5% (contaminated or crystallized DEF can cause obstructions)

3. 3

   Check electrical connections, wiring harnesses, and connectors related to the DEF tank header/sensor for security, proper grounding, corrosion, or physical damage

4. 4

   Test sensor functionality by using a John Deere diagnostic tool to monitor live data for erratic or static readings

1. 1

   Drain the DEF Tank

   Safely drain the Diesel Exhaust Fluid from the tank to access the sensor assembly.

2. 2

   Clean the Sensor

   If debris or crystallized DEF is found obstructing the sensor, clean the tank and the sensor mechanism thoroughly.

3. 3

   Replace the DEF Tank Header

   If the sensor is permanently damaged, malfunctioning, or the obstruction cannot be cleared, the DEF tank header assembly (which houses the level sensor, temperature sensor, and pickup tubes) must be replaced.

4. 4

   Reassemble and Refill

   Install the new DEF tank header, reconnect all electrical and fluid lines, and refill the tank with fresh, high-quality DEF.

5. 5

   Reset the ECU

   Use a diagnostic tool to reset the ECU, clear the 003517.07 fault code, and monitor the DEF levels to ensure the new sensor is reporting accurately.