Remote Accelerator Pedal Position - Voltage Below Normal or Shorted to Low Source
The JD-SPN974-FMI4 (John Deere PowerTech) diesel fault code means: Remote Accelerator Pedal Position - Voltage Below Normal or Shorted to Low Source. This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- intermediate
- Estimated cost
- $90-$320 sensor + install
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Common Symptoms
- Fault lamp on operator display
- Possible derate once confirmed active
- Inaccurate dashboard readout for the affected parameter
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed sensor element or contaminated sensor tip Likely
- Broken, chafed, or corroded sensor harness connector Very Likely
- Open / short to ground between sensor and ECU Possible
- ECU signal input fault (rare) Less Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
What is John Deere fault code SPN 974 FMI 4?
On John Deere PowerTech engines, SPN 974 FMI 4 means: Remote Accelerator Pedal Position - Voltage Below Normal or Shorted to Low Source. Moderate code -- diagnose soon; continued operation may increase repair scope.
Can I keep using my John Deere tractor with SPN 974 FMI 4?
Moderate fault -- you can usually keep working but expect derate if aftertreatment-related. Diagnose with John Deere Service ADVISOR via an EDL v3 / CF3 interface.
How much does it cost to fix John Deere SPN 974 FMI 4?
Repair cost range: $90-$320 sensor + install. Dealer labor on large tractors runs $180-$240/hr in 2026.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
Use John Deere Service ADVISOR (CF3/EDL v3) and capture live sensor value vs. expected range.
Back-probe the sensor harness -- verify 5V reference and signal return at the ECU connector.
Swap the sensor with a known-good matching part number and clear the code.
Check CAN data trace for sensor broadcast on J1939 before condemning the ECU.
Sources 1
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J1939-73Application Layer: Diagnostics (defines the SPN/FMI fault-identifier framework)
Commonly Affected Vehicles
- 2015+ John Deere 7R Series (7210R, 7250R, 7290R, 7310R)
- 2015+ John Deere 9R / 9RT / 9RX Series (9370R-9620R)
- John Deere S670 / S680 / S690 combines
- John Deere 544 / 624 / 724 wheel loaders
- John Deere R4045 / R4060 self-propelled sprayers
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