The Most Reliable Cummins Engine, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the engine you think is the most reliable!

Updated on May 1, 2024 06:55

In the heart of every robust trucking and heavy machinery operation lies the power of a reliable engine. Businesses depend significantly on the durability and performance of their engines to ensure smooth operations and avoid costly downtimes. That's why understanding which Cummins engines stand up to the rigors of demanding usage can save time and resources. By participating in voting on the most reliable Cummins engines, users contribute to a community resource that aids potential buyers in making informed decisions. This dynamic tally helps clarify which models are performing best in the field, based on real-world experiences rather than just manufacturer claims or isolated reviews.

What Is the Most Reliable Cummins Engine?

1

57
votes
Cummins ISX15

Cummins Inc.

This engine is the most powerful and reliable engine in the Cummins lineup, delivering up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 lb-ft of torque. It is widely used in heavy-duty trucks, construction equipment, and marine applications.
The Cummins ISX15 is a heavy-duty diesel engine designed for trucks and commercial vehicles. It is known for its reliability, performance, and fuel efficiency.

Displacement: 15 liters

Power Range: 400-605 horsepower

Torque Range: 1,450-2,050 lb-ft

Bore: 137mm

Stroke: 169mm
2

44
votes
Cummins ISB

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and fuel-efficient option for medium-duty applications, delivering up to 360 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in school buses, delivery trucks, and RVs.
The Cummins ISB is a type of diesel engine commonly used in motorhomes. It is known for its reliability, efficiency, and durability. The engine was created by Cummins Inc., an American engine manufacturer. With its robust design and excellent performance, the Cummins ISB has been a popular choice for motorhome owners.

Displacement: 6.7 liters

Cylinder Configuration: Inline 6

Horsepower: 250-400 HP

Torque: 560-800 lb-ft

Fuel Type: Diesel
Cummins ISB in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most reliable engine for a motorhome
3

22
votes
Cummins B-Series

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and durable option for light-duty applications, delivering up to 325 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in pickup trucks, vans, and small buses.
The Cummins B-Series is a line of diesel engines designed and manufactured by Cummins Inc. It is a medium-duty engine that has gained a reputation for its reliability and durability. The B-Series has been widely used in various applications, including trucks, buses, construction equipment, and industrial machinery.

Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement Range: 3.9L - 5.9L

Power Range: 105 hp - 325 hp

Torque Range: 305 lb-ft - 610 lb-ft

Fuel System: High-pressure common rail
4

20
votes
Cummins M11

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and durable option for heavy-duty applications, delivering up to 400 horsepower and 1,250 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in dump trucks, concrete mixers, and heavy equipment.
The Cummins M11 is a diesel engine manufactured by Cummins Inc.

Displacement: 10.8 liters

Cylinder configuration: Inline 6-cylinder

Fuel system: Direct Injection

Aspiration: Turbocharged and Aftercooled

Compression ratio: 16.3:1
5

21
votes
Cummins QSB

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and fuel-efficient option for medium-duty applications, delivering up to 400 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in skid steers, excavators, and generators.
The Cummins QSB is a reliable and widely used engine in various applications. It is an in-line 4 or 6-cylinder diesel engine designed for medium-duty applications.

Displacement: 4.5 to 6.7 liters

Power Output: 110 to 360 horsepower

Torque: 300 to 800 lb-ft

Fuel System: High-pressure common rail (HPCR)

Cooling System: Liquid-based cooling
6

9
votes
Cummins N14

Cummins

This engine is a reliable and durable option for heavy-duty applications, delivering up to 525 horsepower and 1,850 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in long haul trucks, mining equipment, and marine applications.
The Cummins N14 is a heavy-duty diesel engine that was produced by Cummins from 1991 to 2000. It was commonly used in long-haul trucks, construction equipment, and other heavy-duty applications.

Displacement: 14.0 liters

Cylinder configuration: Inline 6-cylinder

Compression ratio: 17.5:1

Injection system: Mechanical fuel injection

Horsepower range: 330-525 hp
7

12
votes
Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Cummins X15

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and powerful option for heavy-duty applications, delivering up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in dump trucks, heavy equipment, and emergency vehicles.
The Cummins X15 is a high-performance diesel engine known for its reliability and efficiency. It is designed for heavy-duty applications and is often found in commercial trucks, construction machinery, and other demanding industries. With advanced engineering and cutting-edge technology, the Cummins X15 delivers outstanding performance while meeting stringent emissions regulations.

Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement: 14.9 liters

Power Range: 400-605 horsepower

Torque Range: 1450-2050 lb-ft

Turbocharging: Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT)
8

5
votes
Cummins K19

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and durable option for heavy-duty applications, delivering up to 700 horsepower and 2,700 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in mining trucks, oil rigs, and marine applications.
The Cummins K19 is a heavy-duty, in-line six-cylinder diesel engine known for its exceptional reliability and durability. It has been widely used in various applications, including industrial, marine, and power generation.

Displacement: 19 liters

Configuration: In-line 6-cylinder

Aspiration: Turbocharged

Compression Ratio: 14.5:1

Bore x Stroke: 159 mm x 159 mm
9

5
votes
Cummins QSK23

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and powerful option for heavy-duty applications, delivering up to 950 horsepower and 3,500 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in mining trucks, oil rigs, and marine applications.
The Cummins QSK23 is a powerful and reliable heavy-duty diesel engine primarily designed for industrial and off-highway applications. It was introduced by Cummins Inc., an American machinery manufacturer known for producing innovative engines and power systems.

Engine Type: Inline six-cylinder

Displacement: 23 liters

Aspiration: Turbocharged and aftercooled

Power Range: 760-950 horsepower

Torque Range: 2500-3100 lb-ft
10

8
votes
Cummins QSX15

Cummins Inc.

This engine is a reliable and powerful option for heavy-duty applications, delivering up to 675 horsepower and 2,300 lb-ft of torque. It is commonly used in long haul trucks, mining equipment, and marine applications.
The Cummins QSX15 is a high-performance and reliable engine designed for heavy-duty applications. It is part of the Cummins Quantum Series engines lineup, known for its durability and power.

Aspiration: Turbocharged and air-to-air aftercooled

Engine Type: Four-stroke, six-cylinder, in-line diesel engine

Displacement: 15.0 liters (912 cubic inches)

Compression Ratio: 17.1:1

Max Power: 600 horsepower (447 kilowatts)

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Ranking factors for reliable engine

Durability

The engine should be able to withstand the rigors of everyday use without succumbing to wear and tear.
Fuel Efficiency

The engine should be able to deliver good fuel economy without compromising on performance.
Power Output

The engine should have enough horsepower and torque to get the job done efficiently.
Maintenance Costs

The engine should be easy to maintain, with inexpensive replacement parts and straightforward repair procedures.
Performance Under Load

The engine should be able to handle heavy loads without overheating or suffering from performance issues.
Emissions Compliance

The engine should meet current emissions regulations while still delivering good performance.
Reputation

The engine should have a good reputation in the industry, with a proven track record of reliability and performance.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable Cummins engine. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or engine is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2581 views
201 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each engine once every 24 hours. The rank of each engine is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most reliable cummins engine

When it comes to diesel engines, Cummins is a name that is synonymous with reliability and power. With over 100 years of experience in the industry, Cummins has produced a wide range of engines that are used in various applications. From heavy-duty trucks to marine vessels, Cummins engines are known for their durability and efficiency. One of the most popular questions that Cummins enthusiasts ask is, "What is the most reliable Cummins engine?" While there is no easy answer to this question, there are some engines that stand out as being particularly reliable. The Cummins 5.9 liter engine, also known as the 6BT, is often cited as one of the most reliable engines ever produced by Cummins. Used in a variety of applications, including light-duty trucks, the 5.9 liter engine is known for its durability, simplicity, and ease of maintenance. Another popular engine is the Cummins 6.7 liter engine, which is used in heavy-duty trucks and other applications. With a reputation for reliability and power, the 6.7 liter engine has become a favorite of truck enthusiasts and commercial drivers alike. Overall, Cummins engines are known for their reliability, durability, and longevity. Whether you are looking for a light-duty engine for your pickup truck or a heavy-duty engine for your commercial vehicle, Cummins has a range of options that are sure to meet your needs.