CAT ET 2019C — Top 20 Questions Answered
1. Does CAT ET 2019C require the CAT Communication Adapter 3 (CA3)?
For ECM programming, parameter changes, and full event log download — yes, the CA3 is required. For fault code reading and live parameter monitoring, NexIQ USB-Link 2/3 or the older CA2 adapter also work with CAT ET 2019C.
2. Does CAT ET 2019C support Windows 11?
Yes. CAT ET 2019C is compatible with Windows 11 (64-bit) when the latest patch is applied. Windows 10 (64-bit) is also fully supported.
3. What CAT construction equipment does ET 2019C support?
CAT ET 2019C supports CAT excavators (320 NG, 330, 336, 345, 349, 374, 390, 395), dozers (D6, D7, D8, D9, D10, D11), motor graders (140, 160), wheel loaders (950, 966, 972, 980, 986, 990, 992), articulated trucks (725, 730, 740, 745), off-highway trucks (773, 777, 785, 793), and scraper models.
4. Can CAT ET 2019C reprogram a CAT ECM?
Yes, with the CAT Communication Adapter 3 (CA3) and an active CAT ET subscription. ECM reprogramming connects to Caterpillar’s factory server to download the appropriate flash file. A factory password is required for parameter changes on protected settings.
5. What is the difference between a Fault Code and an Event Code in CAT ET?
A Fault Code indicates the ECM detected an out-of-range sensor reading or component failure. An Event Code indicates the engine experienced a protection event (overspeed, high coolant temperature, low oil pressure) that the ECM recorded in the event log. Event codes do not always trigger a fault light — they are only visible in CAT ET’s event log.
6. Can I read CAT legacy MID/PID/FMI codes in ET 2019C?
Yes. CAT ET 2019C reads both modern J1939 SPN/FMI fault codes and legacy CAT MID/PID/FMI and CID/FMI codes from older engines (3406E, C10, C12, early C15 ACERT). The software displays both formats and translates them automatically.
7. What does NHTSA Recall 07V279000 mean for my C15-powered Kenworth?
Recall 07V279000 covered Kenworth T800 trucks with CAT C11, C13, and C15 engines where the oil fill cap could dislodge and become lodged in the steering driveline, causing steering difficulty or lockup. CAT ET 2019C reads the event log to check for related oil pressure low events. Verify this recall has been completed at nhtsa.gov using your VIN.
8. Can CAT ET 2019C run a forced DPF regeneration?
Yes. For CAT C13 and C15 ACERT Tier 4 Final engines (and newer), CAT ET supports forced stationary DPF regeneration via bi-directional tests. The machine/truck must be stationary with parking brake applied and DPF soot load within the regen-eligible range.
9. Does CAT ET 2019C work on Peterbilt 379 trucks with CAT C15 engines?
Yes. The Peterbilt 379 with CAT C15 engines is fully supported. Connect via the 9-pin Deutsch diagnostic connector under the cab dash on the driver side. Note that CAT stopped producing on-highway truck engines in 2010, so Peterbilt 379 trucks with CAT engines are 2010 and older.
10. Can I use CAT ET on a Mac?
Not natively — CAT ET is Windows-only. On an Intel Mac, use VMware Fusion 13 with Windows 10/11 guest and USB passthrough for the CA3. Apple Silicon Macs are not recommended for ECM programming. See the VMware guide.
11. What is the CAT factory password and how do I get it?
The CAT factory password is required to modify protected programmable parameters on Cat ECMs (maximum speed, engine protection derate thresholds, etc.). It is issued by CAT to authorized dealers and service centers. Independent shops can request factory passwords through Caterpillar’s Service Information System (SIS) with a valid ET subscription.
12. How do I transfer my CAT ET license to a new laptop?
Deactivate the license on the current machine through CAT ET’s license management menu, then install and activate on the new laptop using the same credentials. Internet connection is required for both deactivation and activation.
13. Can CAT ET read the event log to diagnose past oil pressure faults?
Yes. The CAT ET event log records every protection event with timestamp and engine hours. This is documented as critical for diagnosing faults related to NHTSA Recall 07V279000 (C11/C13/C15 oil cap dislodgement) — even when no active fault code is present at the time of diagnosis.
14. Does CAT ET 2019C support CAT marine engines?
Yes. CAT marine engines including C12, C18, C32, and 3406 marine variants are supported in ET 2019C. The CA3 adapter works on marine engines via the standard CAT 9-pin Deutsch service connector found on marine ECM housings.
15. Why does CAT ET show “ECM not communicating” even with the ignition on?
Most common causes: CA3/CA2 adapter drivers not installed, adapter not recognized by Windows (check Device Manager), or ECM power/ground fault. Also check that the service connector cable is fully seated — CAT Deutsch connectors require firm pressure until the lock clicks.
16. What is the difference between CAT ET 2019C and CAT SIS?
CAT ET (Electronic Technician) is the diagnostic and programming tool that communicates with the machine’s ECMs. CAT SIS (Service Information System) is the service manual and parts lookup database. They are separate products, though CAT ET can integrate with SIS to display service procedures alongside fault codes when both are installed.
17. Does CAT ET 2019C work on CAT off-highway trucks (785, 793)?
Yes. CAT 785 and 793 off-highway haul trucks are supported in ET 2019C. These trucks use CAT C18 and C175 engines with full ECM access via the CA3 adapter. The service connector is typically located in the cab on the access panel near the left cab ladder.
18. Can CAT ET 2019C read fault codes on Cat 320/330 Next Generation Excavators?
Yes. The Cat 320 NG, 330 NG, and 336 NG excavators (introduced 2017–2019) are fully supported in ET 2019C. These models introduced new ECM architecture that is not fully supported in ET versions prior to 2018C.
19. Does CAT ET 2019C support CAT generator sets?
Yes. CAT generator sets with electronic engines (C9, C15, C18, C27, C32, G3300, G3400, G3500 series) are supported. Connect via the standard CAT 9-pin Deutsch service connector on the generator control panel.
20. Is CAT ET 2019C the same as CAT Advisor?
No. CAT ET 2019C is the dealer-level full diagnostic tool with ECM programming access. CAT Advisor is a simplified fleet monitoring interface designed for fleet managers and operators — it shows fault codes and machine health summaries but does not provide ECM programming, event log access, or programmable parameter control.
