← White smoke on all engines
Symptoms · 6.7 Cummins 2019+
6.7 Cummins 2019+: white smoke from the exhaust
3 documented failures on this engine list this among their signs. They are ordered from the most widespread down. Each one shows the signs in its record's own words, how to tell it from the others, the usual fix and any recall or bulletin.
Not sure which engine you have, or want the recalls for your exact truck? Check your VIN: it names the engine and lists the campaigns for that model year. Whether a recall is still open on your VIN: nhtsa.gov/recalls.
verified
How widespread: Common
22 NHTSA owner complaints match it, out of 318 checked
How it shows up
- code P2609 (intake air heater circuit) and P0542; long crank and white smoke in cold weather
Its other signs
- knocking at speed after the heater's terminal nut or bolt breaks off and is pulled into a cylinder (owners most often name cylinder 6)
- smoke or fire from the heater grid relay on 2021-2023 trucks (recalled)
How to tell it apart
- take P2609 seriously: inspect the heater grid terminal hardware before replacing the relay alone
- check the VIN for the relay recalls on 2021-2023 trucks
- verify relay operation and voltage drop at the studs at key-on
Usual fix
repair the relay/circuit; reseal or replace the grid heater assembly (retention bolts with the update kit)
Recalls and bulletins
23V-06021V-79821V-163
Root cause, parts and sources →
verified
How widespread: Common
How it shows up
- cold-start rattle and white smoke; uneven idle; rising fuel consumption
Its other signs
- copper washer blow-by soot at the connector tubes
How to tell it apart
- balance-rate test per cylinder before replacing a set
- inspect connector tubes, copper washers and the CP3 inlet for debris
Usual fix
replace worn injector(s); new copper washers/connector-tube seals every time
Root cause, parts and sources →
verified
How widespread: Common
How it shows up
- coolant drop with no external leak; white smoke on cold start
Its other signs
- soot-clogged cooler banks after long idle-heavy service
How to tell it apart
- pressure-test the cooling system; inspect for coolant in the EGR path and intake sooting
- read EGR delta DTCs before replacing hardware
Usual fix
replace the EGR cooler assembly with the gaskets/seals for the job
Root cause, parts and sources →
Other symptoms on the 6.7 Cummins 2019+
Hard start, long crank or no-startLoss of power, limp mode or derateLosing coolantTicking, knocking, rattle or whineDEF, DPF and regeneration warnings
Everything on the 6.7 Cummins 2019+Its recalls and bulletins