SPN 3719: Diesel Particulate Filter Active Regeneration Inhibited Due to Brake Switch Active

Fault Code SPN 3719: Soot Level Very High

Urgency and Driving Considerations

When the SPN 3719 fault code is detected, it indicates the diesel particulate filter (DPF) soot level is very high. The operator typically has about 2 minutes to initiate a parked regeneration before the engine derate or shutdown occurs.

Do not continue driving with this active fault code. Park the vehicle outdoors away from combustible materials and perform a stationary regeneration immediately to avoid engine damage.

Code Specifics

SPN 3719 is a standard J1939 diagnostic trouble code that applies to many makes and models of diesel vehicles equipped with a DPF, including Freightliner, Detroit Diesel, Cummins, Volvo, and more. The exact soot threshold values may vary slightly between manufacturers.

Parts Involved

The main component associated with SPN 3719 is the diesel particulate filter (DPF). The DPF traps and stores soot from the exhaust to reduce emissions. During regeneration, the soot is burned off at high temperatures to clean the DPF.

Other parts that can influence DPF soot levels include:

• Diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC)
• Exhaust gas temperature sensors
• Differential pressure sensor
• EGR system
• Turbocharger
• Injectors

Common Causes

Potential causes of excessive soot and the SPN 3719 fault:

1. Regeneration overdue or incomplete
2. Excessive idling or low speed/load operation
3. EGR system issues causing incomplete combustion
4. Leaking or clogged injectors
5. Turbo underboost or inefficiency
6. Damaged or clogged DPF
7. Faulty sensors (temp, pressure, etc.)

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for other active fault codes that may indicate root causes (e.g. EGR, turbo, injector codes).
2. Review freeze frame data and soot accumulation history.
3. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage or restrictions.
4. Perform a forced stationary regen and monitor completion.
5. Check differential pressure sensor operation.
6. Evaluate EGR system, turbo, and injectors if regen does not resolve issue.

Solutions and Repair

In most cases, performing a complete stationary regeneration will clear the SPN 3719 code and reduce soot levels. However, if the code reoccurs or the regen does not finish, further diagnosis and repairs may be needed:

• Clean or replace clogged/damaged DPF
• Address any EGR, turbo, or injector issues
• Replace faulty sensors
• Update ECM software if applicable

Prevention

To help prevent excessive soot buildup and SPN 3719 faults:

• Perform regens as soon as the DPF lamp indicates
• Avoid excessive idling when possible
• Use high quality ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel
• Follow recommended oil change and maintenance intervals
• Address potential soot causes like EGR and injector issues promptly

Repair Cost Estimates

• Stationary Regen: $0-100 USD / €0-90 EUR
• DPF Cleaning: $300-700 USD / €275-650 EUR
• DPF Replacement: $2000-4000 USD / €1800-3600 EUR
• Sensor Replacements: $200-500 USD each / €180-450 EUR
• Injector Replacements: $500-1000 USD each / €450-900 EUR

Associated Fault Codes

Other codes commonly seen with SPN 3719:

• SPN 3720 – Ash Level High
• SPN 3251 – Aftertreatment Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction – Mechanical
• SPN 3216 – Aftertreatment 1 Intake Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit – Voltage Above Normal
• SPN 3226 – Aftertreatment 1 Outlet Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit – Voltage Above Normal
• SPN 3482 – Aftertreatment 1 Diesel Particulate Filter Pressure Sensor Circuit – Voltage Above Normal

Fault Code SPN 3719 FAQ

What is Fault Code SPN 3719?

SPN 3719 is a standard J1939 diagnostic trouble code that indicates the diesel particulate filter (DPF) soot level is very high. It applies to many makes and models of diesel vehicles equipped with a DPF.

What should I do if the SPN 3719 code appears?

Do not continue driving with this active fault code. Park the vehicle outdoors away from combustible materials and perform a stationary regeneration immediately to avoid engine damage. The operator typically has about 2 minutes to initiate a parked regeneration before engine derate or shutdown occurs.

What parts are involved with SPN 3719?

The main component is the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which traps soot from the exhaust. Other influential parts include the diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), exhaust gas temperature sensors, differential pressure sensor, EGR system, turbocharger, and injectors.

What are common causes of the SPN 3719 fault?

Common causes include:

1. Regeneration overdue or incomplete
2. Excessive idling or low speed/load operation
3. EGR system issues causing incomplete combustion
4. Leaking or clogged injectors
5. Turbo underboost or inefficiency
6. Damaged or clogged DPF
7. Faulty sensors (temp, pressure, etc.)

What are the key steps to diagnose SPN 3719?

1. Check for other active fault codes (EGR, turbo, injector)
2. Review freeze frame data and soot accumulation history
3. Inspect exhaust system for leaks, damage or restrictions
4. Perform a forced stationary regen and monitor completion
5. Check differential pressure sensor operation
6. Evaluate EGR, turbo, injectors if regen doesn’t resolve issue

How can I clear the SPN 3719 code?

In most cases, performing a complete stationary regeneration will clear the SPN 3719 code and reduce soot levels. However, if the code reoccurs or the regen does not finish, further diagnosis and repairs may be needed.

What repairs are commonly needed for SPN 3719?

Common repairs include:

• Cleaning or replacing clogged/damaged DPF
• Addressing EGR, turbo, or injector issues
• Replacing faulty sensors
• Updating ECM software if applicable

How much does it cost to repair issues related to SPN 3719?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the root cause:

• Stationary Regen: $0-100 USD / €0-90 EUR
• DPF Cleaning: $300-700 USD / €275-650 EUR
• DPF Replacement: $2000-4000 USD / €1800-3600 EUR
• Sensor Replacements: $200-500 USD each / €180-450 EUR
• Injector Replacements: $500-1000 USD each / €450-900 EUR

How can I prevent getting the SPN 3719 fault code?

To help prevent excessive soot buildup and SPN 3719 faults:

• Perform regens as soon as the DPF lamp indicates
• Avoid excessive idling when possible
• Use high quality ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel
• Follow recommended oil change and maintenance intervals
• Address potential soot causes like EGR and injector issues promptly

What other fault codes are commonly seen with SPN 3719?

Other codes that often appear alongside SPN 3719 include:

• SPN 3720 – Ash Level High
• SPN 3251 – Aftertreatment DPF Restriction – Mechanical
• SPN 3216 – Aftertreatment 1 Intake Gas Temp Sensor Circuit
• SPN 3226 – Aftertreatment 1 Outlet Gas Temp Sensor Circuit
• SPN 3482 – Aftertreatment 1 DPF Pressure Sensor Circuit

Can I continue driving with the SPN 3719 code active?

No, you should not continue driving with SPN 3719 active. Park the vehicle and perform a stationary regeneration immediately to avoid potential engine damage. Driving with very high soot levels can cause an engine derate or shutdown within minutes.

How long do I have to initiate a regen when I get the SPN 3719 code?

Typically, the operator has about 2 minutes to initiate a parked regeneration after the SPN 3719 code is detected before an engine derate or shutdown occurs. Promptly park the vehicle outdoors away from combustible materials and start the regen process.

What happens if I ignore the SPN 3719 code and keep driving?

Ignoring the SPN 3719 code and continuing to drive can result in an engine derate (reduced power) or complete shutdown within minutes. It also risks severe damage to the DPF and other exhaust components. Always treat SPN 3719 seriously and perform a parked regen immediately.

Where should I park to perform a regen with the SPN 3719 code?

Park the vehicle outdoors away from any combustible materials. During a parked regen, the exhaust gas temperatures become extremely hot, so avoid dry grass, fuel, plastics, or anything else that could melt or catch fire. Ensure there is adequate ventilation as well.

What should I do if the SPN 3719 code keeps coming back?

If the SPN 3719 code reoccurs after performing a successful parked regeneration, there is likely an underlying issue causing excessive soot buildup. Further diagnosis is needed to check for problems with the EGR system, turbocharger, injectors, sensors, or the DPF itself. Consult a qualified technician for assistance.

Can I perform a parked regen myself or do I need to go to a dealer?

In most cases, a parked regeneration can be performed by the vehicle operator and does not require any special tools or a visit to the dealer. However, if you are unsure of the proper procedure or the code continues to reoccur, it’s best to consult with a professional technician.

Is SPN 3719 specific to one make or model of engine?

No, SPN 3719 is a generic J1939 code that can appear on many different makes and models of diesel engines equipped with a DPF, such as Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Volvo, PACCAR, and more. However, always refer to the manufacturer’s service information for specific troubleshooting procedures.

What tools are needed to diagnose SPN 3719?

To properly diagnose SPN 3719, a scan tool capable of reading active and inactive fault codes, freeze frame data, and performing forced DPF regens is required. A digital multimeter and/or oscilloscope may be needed to test electrical components like sensors as well.

How often should I perform a preventative regen to avoid SPN 3719?

Preventative regens, also known as active or manual regens, should be performed whenever the soot level warning light or DPF restriction gauge indicates the need – typically around 80% soot load. Delaying a regen when prompted can lead to excessive soot buildup and SPN 3719. On highway trucks may need preventative regens every few days to few weeks depending on duty cycle.

Will using a fuel additive prevent the SPN 3719 code?

While some fuel additives claim to reduce soot buildup or enhance DPF regeneration, they are not a substitute for proper maintenance and prompt regeneration when needed. Fuel additives alone will not prevent the SPN 3719 code if the root causes are not addressed. Always use additives as directed and consult with your engine manufacturer before using.