As a mechanic who has worked on Caterpillar C15 ACERT engines, I can attest to the fact that they have their fair share of problems. While the engine has its strengths, it is important for truck owners and fleet managers to be aware of the potential issues they may encounter.

One of the most common problems with the C15 ACERT is the "sticking valve" issue. This occurs when carbon buildup accumulates on the valve stems, causing them to stick in the open or closed position. This can lead to a loss of power and even engine failure. Caterpillar has issued a service bulletin to address this issue, but it is still a problem that plagues many C15 ACERT engines.

Another issue that we frequently encounter is premature injector failure. The C15 ACERT uses injectors to deliver fuel to the combustion chamber, and these injectors are prone to failing. This can be a costly repair, with some truck owners reporting having to replace them as often as every 100,000 miles.

The EGR cooler is another component that we have found to be problematic on the C15 ACERT. Its purpose is to reduce emissions, but the cooler is prone to cracking and leaking. This can cause damage to the engine and be a costly repair. Similarly, the oil cooler can also be problematic, with clogging and leaking causing damage to the engine.

Another issue that we see frequently is with the turbocharger. The C15 ACERT uses a turbocharger to boost engine performance, but they are prone to failure, causing engine trouble. This can also be a costly repair.

One of the most prevalent issues with these engines is sensor failures. With all the sensors these engines have, there are multiple opportunities for problems to arise. Of course, we stock a lot of these sensors here at Truck Parts Alley, so check out our selection.

It is worth noting that these issues are not unique to the C15 ACERT and can be found in other diesel engines as well. However, as a mechanic who works on these engines, I have found that the C15 ACERT seems to have a higher incidence of these problems.

In conclusion, while the Caterpillar C15 ACERT engine has its strengths, it is important for truck owners and fleet managers to be aware of the potential issues that may arise. Regular maintenance and keeping an eye out for warning signs can help mitigate these problems, but it is still important to budget for potential repairs.