2019 Newmar Dutch Star Engine Problems

“While driving motorhome got flashing check engine light and def warning message. Stopped vehicle and called spartan (the chassis manufacture) was told to not drive vehicle as the def head had failed and a replacement was needed. Scheduled replacement work. Vehicle had 3,000 miles on it when this happened. I was told that the vehicle would be limited to 5mph is I attempt to drive it further.”

“While driving, the check engine light came on. Moments later, another check engine light came on and the def gauge went from f to e and turned red with an alarm. We were about 5 miles from our destination. I called Newmar who put spartan on the phone. It was the def sensor. I was asked to drive one hour away on a two lane road to a dealer. I refused. We extended our stay by one week until the part came in (back ordered). Mobile technicians came and installed the part. I asked if I should have a spare sensor... Just in case...and was told no. …”

“The Shaw DEF head failed. Started engine and received MIL light - Emissions. Checked codes and saw SPN 3031 FMI 9-Abnorm. Update Rate - Aftertreatment 1 Diesel Exhaust Fluid Tank Temperature . It should be noted that the motorhome was in my enclosed shop, no excessive temperature. It was started in the morning after setting overnight. Knowing that this could potentially derate engine, I contacted Spartan & a local repair facility. Was able to get DEF Head replaced. I am the original owner of the motorhome. Fortunately this happened while preparing for 3-week trip (at home) and not on road.”

“The contact owns a 2019 Newmar Dutch Star Spartan Motor Chassis RV. The contact stated while driving 45 mph, there were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The RV was driven to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed of the DEF head (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) failure. The dealer was able to clear the error code but stated that the failure recurred, and the engine degraded the speed on the RV. The mechanic recommended that the RV not be driven. The RV was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 5,409.”

“The Freightliner chassis under this motorhome uses a Power Distribution Module (PDM) that is a fuse panel block that powers several coach items, from taillights, brake lights, engine cooling, air conditioning and several other components. The PDM intermittently fails as it can't support the amount of power it must distribute without overheating and shutting off several components as you drive. Especially dangerous is the lost of rear brake and taillights. The PDM was recalled by Freightliner and was replaced with the same item. …”