Code Details
| Display code | ELD Data Recording Malfunction |
|---|---|
| SPN | Not applicable or not verified |
| FMI | Not applicable or not verified |
| OEM code | None listed |
| Manufacturer | FMCSA |
| System | Electronic Logging Device |
| Component | Record storage and retrieval |
| Source address | Unknown or not applicable |
| Severity | medium |
| Review status | ai source checked |
| Source confidence | high |
| Last reviewed | 2026-05-05 |
Plain-English Meaning
The ELD must keep required events and make records available. If it cannot do that, logs may be incomplete or unavailable for inspection.
FMCSA guidance describes this malfunction category in relation to the device's ability to record or retain required events or retrieve logs not kept remotely by the carrier.
Common Symptoms
- Missing logs or events
- Records do not load
- ELD storage or recording warning
- Roadside transfer or display may fail
Possible Causes
Possible causes may include the items below. The list is not a parts diagnosis.
- ELD storage may be full or damaged
- Application database may be corrupted
- Remote sync may be interrupted
- ELD provider system or device may require support
First Checks
- Confirm whether the ELD is showing a malfunction indicator, a data diagnostic indicator, or both.
- Record the displayed category, event time, vehicle, driver, and any related messages before clearing anything.
- Follow the motor carrier's and ELD provider's instructions for data diagnostic events.
- For malfunctions, notify the carrier and verify recordkeeping steps against current FMCSA requirements.
Can I Keep Driving?
This can affect hours-of-service records. Follow FMCSA, carrier, and ELD provider instructions for record reconstruction and repair timing.
Related Codes
Related Lookup Pages
Sources
- ELD Malfunctions and Data Diagnostic Events Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration · government · accessed 2026-05-05 · confidence high
Source: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, ELD Malfunctions and Data Diagnostic Events. This page paraphrases factual fields only and is not a substitute for the original document.
Open source - 49 CFR 395.34 - ELD malfunctions and data diagnostic events Electronic Code of Federal Regulations · government · accessed 2026-05-05 · confidence high
Source: Electronic Code of Federal Regulations, 49 CFR 395.34 - ELD malfunctions and data diagnostic events. This page paraphrases factual fields only and is not a substitute for the original document.
Open source - 49 CFR Part 395 Appendix A to Subpart B - Functional Specifications for ELDs Electronic Code of Federal Regulations · government · accessed 2026-05-05 · confidence high
Source: Electronic Code of Federal Regulations, 49 CFR Part 395 Appendix A to Subpart B - Functional Specifications for ELDs. This page paraphrases factual fields only and is not a substitute for the original document.
Open source
FAQ
Is a data recording malfunction the same as an engine fault code?
No. ELD malfunction and data diagnostic categories relate to electronic logging compliance and recorded hours-of-service data. They may involve vehicle data, but they are not the same thing as an engine ECM DTC.
Can this page replace the ELD provider's instructions?
No. ELD products vary, and the provider's instructions and the motor carrier's procedures should be used for the specific device.
Should a driver ignore an ELD data diagnostic event?
No. A data diagnostic event signals a data inconsistency. FMCSA guidance says the driver should follow the motor carrier's and ELD provider's recommendations to resolve it.