Onan Generator: “Fault 14”
warning RV generator fault codes
What it means
Overfrequency fault. The engine governor could not hold the rated output frequency and the engine ran too fast (output frequency too high). Read as one blink, a pause, then four blinks.
Most likely causes
- Engine governor unable to maintain rated speed/frequency common
- Governor actuator or controller fault common
- Fuel-delivery irregularity (e.g., on LPG, oil migration affecting fueling) less common
Safe checks you can do yourself
- Note when it occurs (idle vs. load).
- Do not adjust the governor yourself - the manual directs this to a dealer.
How to reset / clear Fault 14
- Official corrective action: see an authorized Onan dealer.
- Re-read the stored code by pressing Stop three times within 5 seconds (code stops blinking after ~5 minutes).
When to call a technician
The manufacturer lists 'see an authorized Onan dealer' for code 14 - governor/frequency faults are not a DIY fix.
Accuracy notes
Quiet Diesel definition: frequency above 70 Hz for 40 milliseconds, or above 66 Hz for six seconds, measured after the starter was engaged. A circuit breaker tripping under load can make frequency overshoot and produce this code without anything being wrong with the governor.
Applies to
Onan RV QG / KY series RV gensets · Onan blink-code-controller RV gensets
FAQ
What does Onan Generator code "Fault 14" mean?
Overfrequency fault. The engine governor could not hold the rated output frequency and the engine ran too fast (output frequency too high). Read as one blink, a pause, then four blinks.
How do I reset Onan Generator Fault 14?
Official corrective action: see an authorized Onan dealer. Re-read the stored code by pressing Stop three times within 5 seconds (code stops blinking after ~5 minutes).
What is the most common cause of Fault 14 on a Onan Generator?
The most likely cause is engine governor unable to maintain rated speed/frequency.
Related · Onan generator
Underfrequency fault. The engine governor could not keep the engine… Fault 19
Governor actuator fault. The controller detected an open or shorted…
Sources
- Onan RV Generator Troubleshooting Codes (Table 5) — TABLE 5 - OVERFREQUENCY FAULT-CODE NO. 14 (Engine governor unable to maintain rated frequency) (Cummins/Onan (hosted by Heartland Owners))
- Operator Manual — RV Generator Set KY (Spec J–N) — 981-0159 (Issue 9), Section 4 Troubleshooting, Table 2 (Cummins Inc. (Onan))
- Operator Manual — RV Generator Set HDKCA / HDKCB (Spec A–E) — 0981-0173 (Issue 10), Section 4 Troubleshooting, Table 4-1 (Cummins Inc. (Onan Quiet Diesel))
● Checked against 3 manufacturer documents · Last verified 2026-08-07 · compiled from manufacturer documentation. Codes can vary by model year — always cross-check your unit’s manual. How we verify