If you own or operate a diesel truck, you’ve probably heard about DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) — a key component in reducing emissions. But many Cummins owners wonder: when did Cummins start using DEF? Here’s a clear explanation.
Cummins began using DEF in 2010, when new EPA emissions standards required manufacturers to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. To meet these stricter regulations, Cummins adopted the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system, which uses DEF to clean exhaust gases.
This system became standard on 2010 and newer model-year trucks, including heavy-duty pickups and commercial vehicles equipped with Cummins engines.
DEF is a mixture of urea and deionized water. It’s injected into the exhaust stream, where it reacts with harmful NOx gases and converts them into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.
The system doesn’t affect engine power directly — instead, it helps Cummins engines meet emissions regulations while maintaining fuel efficiency and performance.
DEF became standard on engines such as:
6.7L Cummins (in Ram 2500/3500 trucks from 2013 onward)
ISX15, ISB6.7, and ISC8.3 in medium and heavy-duty trucks
Industrial and off-highway Cummins engines produced after 2010
Meets emissions standards without compromising power
Improves fuel economy compared to older EGR-only systems
Reduces soot buildup in the exhaust system
Cummins officially started using DEF in 2010 with the rollout of SCR technology to comply with EPA emissions laws. Since then, it has become standard in most modern Cummins diesel engines — delivering cleaner performance without sacrificing the brand’s trademark power and reliability.