How to Reset DEF System on Dodge in 2023

Last updated on January 22nd, 2024

If you like to know how to get rid of the trouble codes from your DEF system. Then you should read on because knowing how to reset the DEF system will help you get rid of the problem. A DEF means a Diesel Exhaust Fluid.

The DEF error code may pop up on your dashboard screen without a prior warning sign and it could get you stranded in the middle of a road if you do not have an idea of what the problem is and how you can solve it.

This article will give you a step-by-step breakdown of how you can reset your Dodge DEF system. 

How do I reset my Dodge DEF System?

Method 1 – Reset the Dodge Ram Limp Modes Message by Adding Exhaust Fluid

Well, it is as simple as it sounds. You will be able to reset the DEF error message appearing on your dashboard by just adding some exhaust fluid to the redundant tank.

Electronic Computer Module can sometimes not detect a redundant fluid tank level and instead will show the limp mode DEF message. 

Adding 2 to 3 gallons of DEF exhaust fluid into the DEF tank will be enough to get the dodge ram limp mode message reset.

The only way to confirm if the reset method worked out is to restart your engine.

Once you can start it without getting any warning messages displayed on the dashboard, the reset job has been completed.

Method 2 – Reset the Dashboard

Resetting the dashboard allows you to reset all the false engine codes on your dashboard alongside the DEF limp mode. Follow the steps below to reset your dashboard.

• Push the reset button. It is the small knob on the bottom corner of the dashboard
• Insert your key and ignite it without starting the vehicle
• Release the reset button to allow cluster reset
• You should get a done message when the cluster reset is completed
• Start the engine and check if the error code has been wiped off

Method 3 – Get the Battery Terminal Disconnected

Getting the battery terminal disconnected is also one good method to reset the DEF message in case of false warning messages. The battery terminal is disconnected by taking out the negative battery cable of the battery.

The negative cable should be left out for at least 30 minutes. The disconnected battery terminal should be reconnected after 30 minutes.

Check for the fault warning code on the dashboard, it should no longer be there if the method was able to get the DEF system reset back to its normal mode.

Method 4 – Reset using a Scanner or an Error Code Reader

Are you reading the fourth method because none of the above methods was able to reset your Dodge DEF system? Relax and check out the steps to using a code reader for reset.

• Connect the code reader to the vehicle and turn the ignition key on
• Allow the code reader some time to retrieve and save the vehicle’s information
• Click on the control module option and scroll till you find the redundant system data
• After all the redundant system data must have loaded, check that all the DEF level sensors are in active mode.
• If all of the DEF sensors are in active mode, then the warning code is a false one. All you will need to do is to delete it.
• If any of the DEF level sensors is in inactive mode, go ahead to refill your DEF tank or replace the DEF system if refilling doesn’t work.
• If all of the DEF level sensors are inactive, return to the Control module and scroll to the “redundant DEF fluid tank level reset. Reset and allow it some time to get all of the codes deleted.
• When the fluid tank level has been reset. Go back to reset the redundant system data
• Stop the engine and disconnect the code reader as soon as the redundant system data reset is completed. 
• Check the engine light to check if the error light has disappeared.

Although the methods of resetting a Dodge DEF system appear simple, it shouldn’t be taken with levity. All methods should be carried out with precautions.

If you have a manual provided for your DEF system, make sure to follow up on all instructions in it. 

Do you still have more questions about a Dodge DEF system, read on to get answers to them.

How do I know if my DEF Pump is Bad?

The fast and easy way to find out if your DEF had become bad is to check for the appearance of the fluid.

A good DEF will appear in a clear solution but the appearance of a cloudy or colored solution most probably points to an old or contaminated DEF and it should be changed as soon as it is discovered.

Using a bad DEF can cause issues like;

• Potential component failures and complete failure of the DEF system.
• Increased DEF consumption by the vehicle
• Machine’s SCR (selective catalytic reduction) malfunction

Knowing that all of the above-listed issues could result from using a bad DEF, how then can you keep your DEF from becoming bad?

Here’s how to keep your DEF from going bad

• DEF should not be stored beyond a year. Its shelf life does not guarantee its efficiency after its year of storage.
• DEF should be stored properly. Iso-approved composite materials containers are good for storing DEF. Also, containers made from polypropylene and stainless steel will serve as good storage too. Aluminium should never be used to store DEF, this is because DEF reacts corrosively with it
• The best temperature to store DEF is around 50 degrees fanhereit. It can be frozen but precautions should be taken in freezing it. Just like water and also because DEF is about 60% of water, it will expand on freezing. The container should be about 50-75% filled to give room for expansion.
• DEF should not be kept under the sun or in heat. Any of the two would cause it to degrade

Final word

That is all you need to know about DEF and how to reset a dodge DEF system.

We hope that you will be able to find them useful when you need them. Should in case you couldn’t still get your Dodge DEF system reset after following the methods listed list in this article?

We advise you to contact a DEF system reset service manager. Your entire DEF system probably needs to be replaced.

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