The Trucking industry feeling the pinch of Def sensor failures

[SargeW]

News article from "Transport Topics" trucking magazine.

https://www.ttnews.com/articles/dies...ousands-trucks

[tnedator]

Originally Posted by SargeW

News article from "Transport Topics" trucking magazine.

https://www.ttnews.com/articles/dies...ousands-trucks

All these articles, and statements from Cummins, Spartan and others, blame the chip shortage, but the reality is all the chip shortage did was highlight the real problem, which is that these manufacturers are using sensors that have a failure rate WAY beyond anything that is acceptable.

The issue isn't the chip shortage, it just brought to the surface a massive problem that wasn't getting the attention it should have been getting all along.

[SargeW]

Obviously these sensors were not tested thoroughly enough under extreme conditions that they would be subjected to. And once they started, it took off.

[ekim]

Originally Posted by tnedator

All these articles, and statements from Cummins, Spartan and others, blame the chip shortage, but the reality is all the chip shortage did was highlight the real problem, which is that these manufacturers are using sensors that have a failure rate WAY beyond anything that is acceptable.

The issue isn't the chip shortage, it just brought to the surface a massive problem that wasn't getting the attention it should have been getting all along.

Agreed, and if after all this time, if they can't even identify the real problem do you think they will provide a useful solution?

[tnedator]

Originally Posted by ekim

Agreed, and if after all this time, if they can't even identify the real problem do you think they will provide a useful solution?

Which is why we have to hope they move forward with the software fix to not derate on failure, or if there is a derate, it's a very slow time based countdown - months.

But hopefully they base the derate on the nox sensor, if at all.

[KenZ71]

Possible the def sensors used less than ideal sensors but the bigger picture to me at least is the global supply shortages.

We are seeing delays for chips, shipping containers, and many other items. What happened to small companies seizing opportunities like this?

[tnedator]

Originally Posted by KenZ71

Possible the def sensors used less than ideal sensors but the bigger picture to me at least is the global supply shortages.

We are seeing delays for chips, shipping containers, and many other items. What happened to small companies seizing opportunities like this?

You have people that have had two, I think in some cases three, def sensors fail within three or so years.

Can you name another critical engine component, that will cause you to stop dead in your tracks (5 mph limp mode) that anyone fears will fail every time they start their truck/RV?

The supply shortage shown a light on it, but the problem is squarely on horribly designed systems.

How would we be reacting if fuel pumps, or any other critical component that would leave you stranded, failed at this rate?

[Kid Gloves]

Originally Posted by SargeW

Obviously these sensors were not tested thoroughly enough under extreme conditions that they would be subjected to. And once they started, it took off.

Yes, extreme conditions. DEF sensors exposed to, wait for it, DEF. Oh my!

[SargeW]

Originally Posted by Kid Gloves

Yes, extreme conditions. DEF sensors exposed to, wait for it, DEF. Oh my!

I know, ain't that the truth! I'd be funny if it wasn't so sad

[Toby Dog]

And the Feds wonder why so many altered trucks are out there. I'll keep my old rattle trap thank you.

[move on]

Here's the root of the problem. The EPA has mandated that we use an emissions system that is far more complicated and sensitive than the rest of the car itself. Then they devised the limp mode system to punish us if we don't keep it going. I would rather see the EPA go into limp mode instead.