New Holland ENG 3167 – Engine Control Unit (ECU): Fuel Filter Heater Relay - Short Circuit to Ground

This fault indicates a problem within the fuel filter heating system's electrical circuit. It is triggered when the power stage of the fuel filter heating relay control circuit is shorted to a low voltage source (ground).

• T5.95
• T5.105
• T5.115
• T6 Series
• T7.220
• T7.235
• T7.250
• T8 Series
• CR9090
• CX8080
• CX8090
• W50C
• W60C
• W70C
• W80C
• E215B
• E245B

1. 1

   Verify if the fault is currently active or stored in history by clearing the code and cycling the key to see if it returns.

2. 2

   Visually inspect the wiring harness running from the ECU to the fuel filter heater relay for chafed insulation, pinched wires, or rubbing against the chassis.

3. 3

   Disconnect the fuel filter heater relay and use a multimeter to check for continuity to ground on the control circuit wire to see if the relay is internally shorted.

4. 4

   Check the specific ECU pin that provides the signal to the relay to ensure the ECU's internal power stage has not failed.

1. 1

   Disconnect Power

   Turn off the machine and disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical spikes during repair.

2. 2

   Locate the Relay

   Locate the fuel filter heater relay (often found in the engine compartment fuse/relay box or mounted near the fuel filter housing, depending on the model).

3. 3

   Isolate the Short

   Unplug the relay and test the wiring harness.

4. 4

   Repair Wiring

   If a short to ground is found in the harness, splice in a new section of wire using weather-sealed heat-shrink connectors, or replace the damaged harness section. Wrap the repaired area in protective loom.

5. 5

   Replace the Relay

   If the harness is intact but the relay failed the diagnostic test, plug a new OEM relay into the socket.

6. 6

   Reassemble and Clear Codes

   Reconnect the battery, turn the key to the ON position, and use a diagnostic tool (like the CNH Electronic Service Tool) to clear the ENG 3167 code. Start the engine and verify the code does not return.