This guide helps you choose the right fix based on what’s causing your derate/limp mode: DPF restriction, faults in SCR/DEF (AdBlue), EGR, and EKAS, or a locked ECM on a 2023+ Sprinter OM654.
It breaks down five options—two Package Deals (keep DPF active vs. DPF Delete with required exhaust hardware removal), two targeted choices (SCR AdBlue / DEF Delete or a temporary AdBlue (DEF) Counter Reset), and the DEF Emulator Kit for 2023+ Sprinter OM654 models with a locked ECM that cannot be programmed through the OBD port.
You’ll also see what stays active, what gets disabled or emulated, what to expect after installation, when the included reset tool may be needed, and why the Package Deal or DEF Emulator Kit may provide the most reliable long-term path depending on your vehicle.
DEF Emulator Kit for 2023+ Sprinter OM654 (2.0L)
This section explains how the DEF Emulator Kit works, what it covers, what to expect after installation, and when to use the included reset tool.
Compatibility
Only compatible with Sprinter 907/910 (W907/W910) vehicles equipped with the OM654 2.0L diesel engine, model year 2023 and newer, in all markets.
Why This Solution Is Different: Locked ECM
On 2023+ OM654 Sprinters, the ECM is locked and cannot be programmed through the OBD port using standard tuning tools.
That is why this product uses an emulator instead of ECU programming.
What’s Affected
The emulator simulates correct DEF/SCR operating signals so the ECM recognizes the SCR system as functioning properly and does not trigger start restrictions or common SCR/DEF limitation scenarios.
What’s Included
- DEF / SCR Emulator — the main device that bypasses DEF/SCR faults on a locked ECM;
- OBD reset tool — AdBlue Limit Counter Reset — clears existing DEF-related warnings and countdown messages;
- detailed installation instructions;
- specialist support during use.
What’s Not Required
- No ECU programming — the locked ECM remains untouched;
- no DEF refill required — the DEF level is emulated;
- no DEF/SCR repairs required before or after installation.
What Problems It Fixes
The solution removes the DEF/AdBlue start countdown and common SCR/DEF limitation scenarios.
It bypasses current and future faults associated with the main DEF/SCR components, including:
- DEF tank and level sensor;
- DEF pump;
- DEF injector;
- DEF heater;
- temperature-related signals;
- NOx-related SCR scenarios.
Important note: NOx sensor #1 is not emulated. If NOx sensor #1 fails, it must be replaced.
How the Vehicle Behaves After Installation
Install. Reset. Drive.
Install the emulator, run the included reset tool once, and then drive normally.
If a DEF-related warning or countdown appears again later, simply run the AdBlue Limit Counter Reset and continue driving.
Package Deal With DPF Active
What will be fixed?
Solution removes limitation/derate behavior triggered by SCR/EGR/EKAS faults.
And reduces repeat “repair loop” cases where these systems keep coming back after parts replacement.
Why doesn't this solution disable DPF?
We recommend keeping the DPF active until it becomes a real drivability issue (frequent regens/DPF Full). Because deleting the DPF “in advance”:
- Typically adds downsides: exhaust hardware work is required, exhaust sound changes, and exhaust odor can be more noticeable (especially with long idle time: RV/motorhome use, warm-up, waiting on jobs).
- Requires physical hardware changes: the DPF and the SCR catalyst must be removed from the exhaust system.
How does the vehicle behave after?
No typical SCR/EGR/EKAS-driven limitation scenarios.
No need for ongoing repairs/maintenance of these systems as the cause of limitations, if those systems were the root cause.
DPF continues normal operation (regen scheduling/monitoring remains OEM) if the DPF system is healthy.
BONUS! Also this Package Deal includes moderate Stage 1 engine optimization by default, calibrated with reliability as the priority (
check the Stage 1 Note below ).
In sum, this is the best choice for the following cases
- Your main issues are connected to one or a couple of SCR/DEF, EGR, EKAS:
Even if only one system is failing right now, it’s usually best to address all systems that can be handled without mechanical work to reduce future failures and repeat limitation events.This will significantly reduce the cost of repairing these systems.
- If there are no clear signs of DPF restriction:
It’s typically better to keep the DPF active until it actually becomes a problem (as we already mentioned above).
Package Deal With DPF Delete
What will be fixed?
DPF-driven problems: frequent regen cycles, DPF Full, and restriction/soot-load scenarios that lead to derate/limp behavior.
Also removes limitation logic tied to SCR/EGR/EKAS, which often appears alongside DPF issues. And prevent “repair loop” cases where these systems keep coming back after parts replacement.
How does the vehicle behave after?
The vehicle operates without DPF-driven and DEF/EGR/EKAS-driven scenarios that typically lead to limitations and recurring faults.
No need for ongoing repairs/maintenance of these systems as the cause of limitations — as long as those systems were the root cause.
Expect possible changes in exhaust sound and more noticeable exhaust odor, especially during extended idling (because DPF Strategy is disabled).
BONUS! Also this Package Deal includes moderate Stage 1 engine optimization by default, calibrated with reliability as the priority (
check the Stage 1 Note below ).
Best choice for the following cases
- You have clear DPF restriction symptoms (frequent regens, DPF Full, repeated power loss/derate events driven by DPF).
- You have issues with one or a couple of SCR/DEF, EGR, EKAS, and your DPF is already close to restriction — so you want to “solve it all together” to avoid coming back to the DPF problem later.
- You understand and accept the required exhaust modifications and trade-offs of DPF removal (i.e. possible changes in exhaust sound and more noticeable exhaust odor, especially during extended idling).
- The vehicle is out of warranty (DPF removal is not warranty-safe and can affect warranty coverage).
- You understand the vehicle maynot pass emissions testing/inspection in regions where emissions checks are required.
SCR AdBlue / DEF Delete
What will be fixed?
SCR/AdBlue warnings and limitations, including start countdown behavior and messages like “X Starts Remaining” or “Check DEF” (and similar SCR-related alerts).
Recurring SCR failure patterns that often return after repairs (NOx sensors, DEF components, SCR-related hardware).
How does the vehicle behave after?
SCR/AdBlue no longer drives limitation scenarios.
But EGR, EKAS, and DPF remain unchanged. This means that any existing or future hardware failures related to these components may still occur and could result in performance limitations.
Best choice for the following cases
- Your problem is clearly SCR/DEF/NOx, and you want the simplest targeted ECU solution.
- You do not have ongoing DPF symptoms (DPF Full/frequent regens) or multi-system issues that point to a Package Deal.
AdBlue (DEF) Counter Reset
What will be fixed?
Vehicles restricted specifically by the start counter: “X starts remaining”, active countdown.
This is a rapid mobility tool: restore 10 new starts each time the OBD module is used — so you can finish a trip/job or drive to service without a tow (as long as the SCR module is communicating).
How does the vehicle behave after?
Mobility is restored by resetting the start counter (when applicable to the current vehicle state).
SCR/DEF, EGR, EKAS, and DPF remain active and unchanged. Any existing or future failures related to the Emission Control System may still occur, could result in performance limitations and will require mechanical repair.
Best choice for the following cases
- You need temporary mobility and want to avoid being stranded far from service with “0 starts remaining” (without an opportunity to drive without a tow).
NOTICE If SCR/NOx limitations keep returning and you want a long-term fix, SCR Delete or one of Package Deals is usually the better path.
Stage 1 Note (Part of Package Deals ONLY)
Both Package Deals include a complimentary Stage 1 calibration. You may opt out of this feature if you wish (however, please note that this will not reduce the total price).
Feature intent: reliability-first drivability optimization — improved pedal response, smoother torque delivery, and more predictable pull under load.
Stage 1+ (instead Stage 1) can be discussed case-by-case (typically we suggest it for well-maintained vans under ~100,000 miles).
We do not provide fixed performance figures. Our priority is a balanced power and torque increase, specifically engineered to ensure the long-term reliability and safety of your vehicle’s systems.
Fuel economy may improve during steady cruising and light-throttle conditions. Naturally, efficiency gains depend on driving style and will vary under more aggressive use.
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