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SPN 111 FMI 1

SPN 111 FMI 1: Engine coolant level low – most severe

Quick Answer

Engine coolant level low – most severe

Code
SPN 111 FMI 1
Severity
Info
Applies to
Check OEM application
Can I drive?
Driving suitability is not established by this code alone.

Common Symptoms

  • Low coolant level warning
  • Check-engine or engine-protection warning may be present

Likely Causes

  • Engine coolant level genuinely low
  • External or internal coolant leak
  • Coolant level sensor fault

Common Fixes

  • Check and correct coolant level when the engine is safe to service
  • Inspect the cooling system for leaks and reservoir or cap problems
  • Test the coolant level sensor if the coolant level is correct
Full technical sections↓

What does SPN 111 FMI 1 mean?

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Engine coolant level low – most severe

Detailed guide for SPN 111 FMI 1

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What SPN 111 FMI 1 means

SPN 111 identifies engine coolant level. FMI 1 indicates coolant level below the normal operating range at the most severe level.

Detroit troubleshooting information describes SPN 111 FMI 1 as a coolant-level-low condition.

What to check first

When the engine is cool and safe to service, check the coolant level in the surge tank or reservoir using the manufacturer's specified level marks.

If coolant is low, inspect the system for external leaks. Depending on the engine, also investigate possible internal leakage, reservoir-cap problems or other causes of coolant loss.

If coolant level is correct but the fault remains active, inspect and test the engine coolant level sensor and its circuit.

Important

Do not simply add coolant repeatedly without finding the reason for coolant loss. Low coolant can lead to overheating and engine damage.

The exact sensor arrangement and protection strategy differ by vehicle and engine manufacturer.

Video walkthrough for SPN 111 FMI 1

The videos below are embedded using YouTube’s official player. We do not host or claim ownership of this content. Use it as a visual reference and always confirm with diagnostics for your exact truck configuration.

Spn 111 Fmi 1 fix Change coolant sensor
Channel: Married to Freight • View in BigRigFaults Media • YouTube source
If a creator disables embedding, the video will stop showing here. That’s normal and it’s their right.
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