What is the emergency protocol for SPN 111 FMI 18?

1) Pull over at the first safe location. 2) Shut down engine. 3) Check for obvious issues (fluid leaks, smoke, loose connections). 4) Scan for secondary fault codes. 5) Call roadside assistance if unable to resolve. Do not attempt to limp the vehicle to a shop.

What happens if I ignore SPN 111 FMI 18?

Ignoring a STOP ENGINE code can result in: turbocharger failure ($3,000–$8,000), engine seizure requiring complete overhaul ($15,000–$40,000), or fire risk from leaking fuel/oil onto hot exhaust components. If this code is accompanied by low oil pressure or high coolant temperature, engine failure may occur within minutes.

🔴 STOP ENGINE

International SPN 111 FMI 18: Meaning, Causes & Fix

Engine Coolant Level Low — coolant loss detected in surge tank

✅ {% if lang == "es" %}Revisado Editorialmente{% else %}Editorially Reviewed{% endif %} — {% if lang == "es" %}Última revisión{% else %}Last reviewed{% endif %} 2026-07-06 {% if lang == "es" %}por{% else %}by{% endif %} {% if lang == "es" %}analista de datos de flotas{% else %}fleet data analyst{% endif %}. {% if lang == "es" %}Esta definición de código ha sido verificada contra la documentación del estándar SAE J1939 y los manuales de servicio OEM para International A26.{% else %}This code definition has been cross-referenced against SAE J1939 standard documentation and OEM service manuals for International A26.{% endif %} STOP ENGINE codes receive priority editorial review.

Diagnostic Reference

Field	Details
Code	`SPN 111 FMI 18`
Protocol	J1939 SPN: 111 FMI: 18
Component	Cooling System / EGR Cooler
Manufacturer	International
Engine Series	A26
Severity	🔴 STOP ENGINE
SAE Reference	SAE J1939-73 Digital Annex — SPN 111, FMI 18

Possible Causes

EGR cooler internally leaking coolant into exhaust
Radiator hose split
Water pump weep hole leaking
Oil cooler gasket failure
Cylinder head gasket leaking externally

Diagnostic & Repair Procedure

Step 1: Top up coolant to cold fill line on surge tank
Step 2: Pressure-test cooling system to 15 PSI
Step 3: Inspect EGR cooler for internal leak (white smoke from exhaust when hot)
Step 4: Check for coolant in oil (milky dipstick)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep driving with SPN 111 FMI 18?

No. This is a STOP ENGINE-level fault. Continued operation will cause severe engine damage including potential catastrophic failure. Pull over safely and diagnose before restarting. Tow the vehicle to a service facility if the root cause cannot be identified and resolved at roadside.

What is the emergency protocol?

1) Pull over at the first safe location — use hazard lights and reflective triangles if on a highway shoulder. 2) Shut down engine. 3) Check for obvious issues: fluid leaks, smoke, loose connections, unusual odors. 4) Scan for secondary fault codes using a dash display or diagnostic tool — these often point to the root cause. 5) Call roadside assistance if unable to resolve. Do not attempt to limp the vehicle to a shop.

What happens if I ignore this code?

Ignoring a STOP ENGINE code can result in: turbocharger failure ($3,000–$8,000), engine seizure requiring complete overhaul ($15,000–$40,000), or fire risk from leaking fuel/oil contacting hot exhaust components. If this code is accompanied by low oil pressure or high coolant temperature, engine failure may occur within minutes of continued operation.

Diesel Repair Cost & Downtime Estimator

Enter estimated labor hours to calculate repair cost and potential fleet downtime losses. Based on national average diesel shop rate of $150/hr and daily revenue loss of $800/day for a parked truck.

Estimated Labor Hours

Shop Rate ($/hr)

Estimated Parts Cost ($)

Estimated Downtime (days)

Related Fault Codes — A26

SPN 641 FMI 5 🟡 CHECK AT NEXT STOP

VGT Turbo Actuator

SPN 3050 FMI 9 🟡 CHECK AT NEXT STOP

DPF Regeneration Too Frequent

MID 128 PID 111 FMI 4 🟠 CHECK SOON

Coolant Level Sensor

Associated Symptoms

Overheating White Smoke Coolant Loss Low Coolant Warning Coolant Smell

References & Further Reading

SAE J1939-73: Application Layer — Diagnostics. SAE International. Defines SPN 111 / FMI 18 fault code semantics for heavy-duty CAN networks. SAE J1939 Standard
International A26 Service Manual: OEM diagnostic procedures for Cooling System / EGR Cooler faults. Consult the official International service documentation for your specific engine serial number.
TMC RP 1210: Recommended Practice for Windows-Based Vehicle Diagnostic Interface. Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) of American Trucking Associations.

Data Provenance: This fault code definition is derived from SAE J1939 standards. SPN 111 FMI 18 is defined in SAE J1939-73 Digital Annex. Diagnostic procedures sourced from International OEM technical service documentation. Not for safety-critical decisions. Consult a certified diesel mechanic before performing any repair. See our full disclaimer.