UO1OE after replacing DPF Sensor (3rd time in a year)

[TxWanderWoman]

2020 Ram 3500 Laramie - stock receipt Banks Boost Tubes and RanchHand front bumper.

Replaced DPF/SCR (DPF full) and then replaced leaking intercooler tube with Banks Boost Tubes a few months back. Ran from Colorado to Texas and back in November. No issues. 22mpg!

Replaced DPF sensor 3 times - January, September, this week

Now getting Service DEF System, See Dealer and a crapton of codes. I just picked up the truck from the sensor replacement 2 days ago!! Pictures attached

Not in limp mode.. yet
DEF gets weird below half a tank. DEF too low, 200 miles until speed is reduced to 5mph
Top up the tank and it goes away.

Sorry for being choppy. Running late for work.

I need my truck and need this fixed. Can anyone help?

 

[ShadowJ]

That stuff should have fell off after the 1st trip to the dealer…

 

[Thorvald]

Lost comms? All those codes look like the CAN Bus wiring is broken up stream to those modules.

Funny enough I’m on the process of replacing my PM sensor and module (new part just arrived) but I’ve been researching Bosch sensors and how they work etc. the PM module goes straight onto the CAN Bus and there are comments on this forum about wires being pinched under the cab and over the frame wearing into the wiring harness.

Wonder if you have something similar since it is so many modules and it’s all comms related.

That power input low message coupled with a 2020 truck, when was the last time both batteries were replaced? If you have a iDash or CTS Edge, add the voltage display and keep an eye on it. Weak batteries would certainly piss of the CAN Bus but I would expect more messages.

Also can’t hurt to do the fuse press test (make sure all fuses are well seated in their holders under the hood). However let’s wait for others to comment on all the comms issues.

 

[TxWanderWoman]

I did the fuse press and there were so many that weren't seated.
It's in the shop. Communicating clearly on both sides of the ECM, but it appears the ECM is failing to interpret the communication.
It also appears I've probably unnecessarily replaced my DPF/SCR and sensors. Ugh.

Mechanic said someone has had their hands all up in it chasing the wiring like they were looking for this before. I've had the truck since 07/2021. I didn't start having problems until January. I just had the DPF sensor replaced. It had one code when I took it in. It had 17 when I got it back. Yes, I've changed mechanics.

I replaced both batteries in January 2022. Had them tested and they're both fine. I don't have a tuner on it, but the on-board voltage gauge is reading fine, too.

The shop where I have it has a 4.9 star rating, he drives a truck almost identical to mine, and he's determined to get to the root cause and not just throw stuff at it hoping it sticks.

He's checked for cuts, pinched wires, loose connections, bad sensors... he's gonna run scans on his truck and mine side by side to see if he can get closer to finding the issue.

I'll keep posting updates.

Thanks for your input!!

 

[TxWanderWoman]

The total quote is $17k
But the 2 most pressing issues are the ECM and the lifters... $12k

I'm sick... literally
I can't be without my truck. I have horses and live in my 5th wheel.
I also can't afford this repair.

I'm so pissed because I've been so diligent in my maintenance. Should have drove her like a rented mule...

Please take note of my new address...
Between a rock and a hard place

 

[ShadowJ]

The total quote is $17k
But the 2 most pressing issues are the ECM and the lifters... $12k

I'm sick... literally
I can't be without my truck. I have horses and live in my 5th wheel.
I also can't afford this repair.

I'm so pissed because I've been so diligent in my maintenance. Should have drove her like a rented mule...

Please take note of my new address...
Between a rock and a hard place

Looks like they charged for the cam itself, twice. Also, after a Hamilton conversion, 15-40 is the recommended oil. How many miles on this truck?

 

[TxWanderWoman]

Looks like they charged for the cam itself, twice. Also, after a Hamilton conversion, 15-40 is the recommended oil. How many miles on this truck?

125k
I'm so confused. Low mileage for a diesel and I've stayed on top of all maintenance.

 

[Trash Panda]

There isn’t any maintenance to prevent an ECM from ****ting the bed sadly, but I can’t say I have heard of that issue before.

Be a great time to solve DPF issues forever if you’re already paying for a new ECM…

 

[56ram2500]

The total quote is $17k
But the 2 most pressing issues are the ECM and the lifters... $12k

I'm sick... literally
I can't be without my truck. I have horses and live in my 5th wheel.
I also can't afford this repair.

I'm so pissed because I've been so diligent in my maintenance. Should have drove her like a rented mule...

Please take note of my new address...
Between a rock and a hard place

Was a bit surprised to see that they charged you for there Wietech subscription

 

[TxWanderWoman]

I wondered about that, too!
Granted, the office manager put this together pretty quickly as they were closing early on Christmas Eve.
Here's a breakdown of the last year - what I've had done and what they say I need and other recommendations.

I had my brakes and transmission serviced at the dealership the end of 2024. Within 10 minutes of leaving the dealership, I had a CEL. They put the transmission gasket in wrong and I blew out all my transmission fluid. My transmission is covered for life by the dealership since it was their technician that effed it up. Then, in June, my truck was acting like I had a flat, but I didn't. I ended up jacking up the back end, pulling all 4 rear wheels, and then I could see there was a gap on the driver's side where the hub had separated from the end of the axle. Four wheel studs had sheared off, three were completely gone and the one that was remaining was half backed out. I called the dealership and told them who I was. The only question they asked was where was my truck located. They sent a flat bed out and picked it up. The same technician that did my transmission service also did my brake job.
That led to a dealer repair - rear hub assembly, wheel studs, bearing seals, parking brake plate, rotors, brake pads - all replaced at their cost. Now, I've got rear seals leaking?? WTF

January - replaced DPF Sensor
June - rear hub assemblies, wheel studs, bearing seals, parking brake plate, rotors, brake pads replaced
June - water pump replaced
September - DPF/SCR and DPF sensor replaced
November - boost tubes replaced with Banks Boost Tubes

December - CEL and codes pointing to loss of communication throughout the emissions system which led to a quote for:
•repack wheel bearings, replace rotors and brake pads ($2123.26) - I will have this done at the dealership since they just serviced all of this in June. I should not need to have the bearings repacked and they should not be leaking.

•decarb - removal and cleaning of exhaust and egr and reinstall ($1021.88) - because of the issues with the emissions system related to the dying CAN bus

•replace and program ECM ($4267.39)

•lifter conversion to flat tappet with camshaft (including the water pump that's leaking that was just replaced in June.) ($8023.18)
I've been told by 2 diesel mechanics that the valves can be adjusted. It only "chatters" during cold starts and stops quickly. Is this a real issue? I don't know. The shop has offered an alternative to this - BG Dynamic Engine Flush Service ($1031.45)

The one thing I can't avoid is that the ECM has to be replaced. My truck is dead without it.

I also have to say, it was running great! I just went to Texas and back in November and she ran like a champ. Even got 22 mpg! Now, I suddenly need all this work??
The quote isn't broken down into necessary vs recommendations. I'm weeding it out on my own until the shop is back open again.

 

[ShadowJ]

Anybody else detect an ai bot possibly? Repack the wheel bearings? Tech subscription? Double charge on cam? My spidey senses are gearing up.

 

[TxWanderWoman]

Anybody else detect an ai bot possibly? Repack the wheel bearings? Tech subscription? Double charge on cam? My spidey senses are gearing up.

I might be suffering from a brain fart...

AI bot?
I agree there are questions from the quote. I'm heading to the shop shortly. I haven't had time to look up today. I run the gun counter at work and it's been crazy busy.

What specific questions should I be asking?

I haven't signed off on any work.

 

[Arth]

I might be suffering from a brain fart...

AI bot?
I agree there are questions from the quote. I'm heading to the shop shortly. I haven't had time to look up today. I run the gun counter at work and it's been crazy busy.

What specific questions should I be asking?

I haven't signed off on any work.

Interested in the diagnosis that led to this quote. Sure feels like a shotgun blast of maybes rather than "this is the problem we found and this is going to fix it."

 

[56ram2500]

I wondered about that, too!
Granted, the office manager put this together pretty quickly as they were closing early on Christmas Eve.
Here's a breakdown of the last year - what I've had done and what they say I need and other recommendations.

I had my brakes and transmission serviced at the dealership the end of 2024. Within 10 minutes of leaving the dealership, I had a CEL. They put the transmission gasket in wrong and I blew out all my transmission fluid. My transmission is covered for life by the dealership since it was their technician that effed it up. Then, in June, my truck was acting like I had a flat, but I didn't. I ended up jacking up the back end, pulling all 4 rear wheels, and then I could see there was a gap on the driver's side where the hub had separated from the end of the axle. Four wheel studs had sheared off, three were completely gone and the one that was remaining was half backed out. I called the dealership and told them who I was. The only question they asked was where was my truck located. They sent a flat bed out and picked it up. The same technician that did my transmission service also did my brake job.
That led to a dealer repair - rear hub assembly, wheel studs, bearing seals, parking brake plate, rotors, brake pads - all replaced at their cost. Now, I've got rear seals leaking?? WTF

January - replaced DPF Sensor
June - rear hub assemblies, wheel studs, bearing seals, parking brake plate, rotors, brake pads replaced
June - water pump replaced
September - DPF/SCR and DPF sensor replaced
November - boost tubes replaced with Banks Boost Tubes

December - CEL and codes pointing to loss of communication throughout the emissions system which led to a quote for:
•repack wheel bearings, replace rotors and brake pads ($2123.26) - I will have this done at the dealership since they just serviced all of this in June. I should not need to have the bearings repacked and they should not be leaking.

•decarb - removal and cleaning of exhaust and egr and reinstall ($1021.88) - because of the issues with the emissions system related to the dying CAN bus

•replace and program ECM ($4267.39)

•lifter conversion to flat tappet with camshaft (including the water pump that's leaking that was just replaced in June.) ($8023.18)
I've been told by 2 diesel mechanics that the valves can be adjusted. It only "chatters" during cold starts and stops quickly. Is this a real issue? I don't know. The shop has offered an alternative to this - BG Dynamic Engine Flush Service ($1031.45)

The one thing I can't avoid is that the ECM has to be replaced. My truck is dead without it.

I also have to say, it was running great! I just went to Texas and back in November and she ran like a champ. Even got 22 mpg! Now, I suddenly need all this work??
The quote isn't broken down into necessary vs recommendations. I'm weeding it out on my own until the shop is back open again.

IMO Say no to BG engine flush, if you had a Hamilton cam conversion with flat lifters/tappets installed then yes valves can be adjusted, I cant comment on EGR work they want to due but will say good lucky with the mess you got....

 

[Bret]

Get it out of the dealership and bring to an independent diesel shop.

I feel your pain - I bought a 2005 C&C 3H LQ trailer a month ago. First overnighter at WEC we discovered a leak in the living quarters. Whole floor is rotten! It's been in the shop since. I *think* they're gonna eat it and make it right. I'm supposed to pick it up next week. We shall see. I'm hopeful and the owner of the trailer dealership seems to be playing nice so far but I still have my guard up.
One thing's for certain - NOTHING about owning horses is cheap!

 

[TxWanderWoman]

It IS at an independent diesel shop.

4.9 star rating

Everyone says "I would tell you where to take it, but you've already got it at the best shop on the area.

After lab scope, checking and testing all wiring, testing all sensors, it's the ECM. The diesel shop said my truck is only the second one they've seen this on.

They do recommend swapping out to flat tappet lifters when I can. The pressing issue is $4000 to replace the ECM (and what I owe for the labor for the better part of 3 weeks testing everything else to be sure it really is the ECM and not another issue.)

He generously warranties his work.

For now, I'm bumming rides. The shop isn't charging me for storage, thankfully. I'm making payments and paying the insurance on a truck that would better serve as an effin' underwater fish habitat.

I'd love for RamCares to ask me for my honest opinion of their trucks.... because they can give me my $80k back and let me buy something dependable, or just replace the ECM and valves on a truck with a meticulous maintenance record, that the dealership screwed up multiple times... and I'll go on my merry way.

☆Pissed off somewhere between a rock and a hard place.☆

 

[motorhead426]

It IS at an independent diesel shop.

4.9 star rating

Everyone says "I would tell you where to take it, but you've already got it at the best shop on the area.

After lab scope, checking and testing all wiring, testing all sensors, it's the ECM. The diesel shop said my truck is only the second one they've seen this on.

They do recommend swapping out to flat tappet lifters when I can. The pressing issue is $4000 to replace the ECM (and what I owe for the labor for the better part of 3 weeks testing everything else to be sure it really is the ECM and not another issue.)

He generously warranties his work.

For now, I'm bumming rides. The shop isn't charging me for storage, thankfully. I'm making payments and paying the insurance on a truck that would better serve as an effin' underwater fish habitat.

I'd love for RamCares to ask me for my honest opinion of their trucks.... because they can give me my $80k back and let me buy something dependable, or just replace the ECM and valves on a truck with a meticulous maintenance record, that the dealership screwed up multiple times... and I'll go on my merry way.

☆Pissed off somewhere between a rock and a hard place.☆

If it were mine and having all these problems, I'd probably take it up to Dave auto center in Centerville, Utah. They seem to get a lot of Cummins with gremlins.

 

[Trash Panda]

If it were mine and having all these problems, I'd probably take it up to Dave auto center in Centerville, Utah. They seem to get a lot of Cummins with gremlins.

Why?

Sounds like the problem is solved locally. Going to a YouTube shop in another state is stepping over a lot of dollars to no benefit.

Change the ECM and be done with it.

 

[motorhead426]

Why?

Sounds like the problem is solved locally. Going to a YouTube shop in another state is stepping over a lot of dollars to no benefit.

Change the ECM and be done with it.

Because I don't trust ANY dealership anymore. I don't know any local shops which means I can't trust them. So I'd hedge me bets on someone that does regular work on these trucks that also doesn't want negative feedback on You Tube or social media. The OP is in northern colorado which isn't that far to Utah. Sometimes spending the extra up front cost for a tow/transport and getting good service is worth not having to deal with a place that does less than quality work. A lot of people hate on Dave, but I think like he does for the most part. I don't wait for failures, I prefer to prevent failures. And if that means spending money to prolong my vehicles before they break, it's worth the piece of mind for me. Just my $.02

TxWanderWoman, I hope you get this sorted out and find a reliable shop you can keep going to. A quality mechanic is worth their weight in gold these days.

 

[Trash Panda]

Because I don't trust ANY dealership anymore. I don't know any local shops which means I can't trust them. So I'd hedge me bets on someone that does regular work on these trucks that also doesn't want negative feedback on You Tube or social media. The OP is in northern colorado which isn't that far to Utah. Sometimes spending the extra up front cost for a tow/transport and getting good service is worth not having to deal with a place that does less than quality work. A lot of people hate on Dave, but I think like he does for the most part. I don't wait for failures, I prefer to prevent failures. And if that means spending money to prolong my vehicles before they break, it's worth the piece of mind for me. Just my $.02

TxWanderWoman, I hope you get this sorted out and find a reliable shop you can keep going to. A quality mechanic is worth their weight in gold these days.

OP’s truck isn’t at a dealer, and the shop has identified the issue.

Towing a truck to Utah isn’t going to do anything but cost money and time lol