Diagnostic Health Report – 2012 Freightliner Cascadia (DD13)
- Manuel Acosta
- Sep 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 25
Here's the exact diagnostic summary I sent to a client after working on their 2012 Freightliner Cascadia (DD13) on-site. No changes, no tweaks—just the actual email as it is. I share these reports to demonstrate how OnSite Diesel Solutions LLC communicates clearly, diagnoses accurately, and earns trust by being transparent.
OnSite Diesel Solutions, LLC
11631 Oak Ridge Tr.
Marysville, CA 95901
Phone: (916) 224-2880
Tax ID: 33-4021979
Technician: Manuel/owner
Summary for Client
Hi [client name],
I performed a pre-health scan on your Freightliner Cascadia and found several active issues. The main concern is the DEF system reporting low pressure, which can prevent proper exhaust treatment and cause performance or emissions issues. This should be addressed quickly.
I also found faults with the coolant level sensor, a few lighting circuits, and an HVAC temperature sensor that may affect cabin temperature control.
We recommend inspecting the DEF dosing system first to ensure its metering properly, followed by electrical checks and a fluid-level verification.
Client: [name]
VIN: 1FUJGEDV8DSBW6663
License Plate: 9E63855
Mileage: 691,610 mi
Engine Hours: 4,680 h
Date: May 28, 2025
Active Fault Codes Summary
Code (SPN/FMI) | Description | Module/ECU | Status | Priority |
SPN 111 FMI 19 | Coolant Level Sensor: Signal Erratic/Low | DD13 MCM2 (ECM) | Active | Medium |
SPN 4334 FMI 7 | DEF Pressure Too Low | ACM2 (Aftertreatment) | Active ×5 | High |
522116 FMI 2 | HVAC Air Outlet Temp Sensor: Erratic Reading | SAM CAB | Active | Medium |
521906 FMI 5 | Left High Beam Headlamp: Open Circuit or Low Current | SAM CAB | Active | Low |
520903 FMI 5 | Right Tail Lamp: Open Circuit or Low Current | SAM CHASSIS | Active | Low |
System Health Overview
Engine & Cooling System:
Coolant level flagged as low 76 times—sensor may be faulty, or coolant level is borderline.
Engine overspeed event logged (inactive), no action needed unless recurring.
Aftertreatment (DEF/ACM):
DEF system reporting low pressure, which may be due to filter blockage, metering valve failure, or pump issue. Pressure reading shows 24.3 psi, but the system expects higher pressure during dosing—high priority.
NOx sensor after SCR showed invalid reading, possibly affecting regen readiness.
Lighting/Electrical:
Left headlight and right taillight show current below normal—likely bulb or wiring-related.
Multiple inactive lighting faults logged (brake lights, reverse, turn signals).
HVAC System:
Air outlet temp sensor reporting erratic values, which may affect cab temp accuracy.
ABS, Transmission, Instrument Cluster, Gateway, HVAC, Radio:
All modules scanned, no active codes stored.
DEF System Snapshot (From Freeze Frame)
DEF Pressure: 24.3 psi (reading too low during expected metering)
Metering Rate: 0 g/h
DPF Inlet Pressure: 0.10 psi
DOC Temp In/Out: 305.6°F / 334.4°F
Exhaust Temp After DPF: 478.4°F
Battery Voltage: 13.56 V
Recommended Repairs & Estimate
Task | Est. Labor (hrs) | Est. Cost (Parts & Labor) | Notes |
DEF System Pressure Diagnosis | 1.0 | $300 – $450 | Inspect filter, lines, metering unit |
Replace Coolant Level Sensor or Check Level | 0.5 – 1.0 | $120 – $200 | Verify level vs. sensor accuracy |
Check/Replace HVAC Temp Sensor | 0.5 | $100 – $160 | Cab temp accuracy fix |
Inspect and Repair Headlamp Wiring | 0.3 | $90 – $140 | Restore circuit |
Repair Taillamp Circuit | 0.3 | $90 – $140 | May need connector cleaning |
Clear Codes and Retest After Repairs | Included | — | Verify fault resolution |
Estimated Total (Parts & Labor): $700 – $1,090
Let us know how you'd like to proceed.
Best regards,
Manuel Acosta/owner
OnSite Diesel Solutions, LLC

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