AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B396A Chevrolet

B396A Chevrolet Code - Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction

Quick Answer

The liftgate motor is a bi-directional motor and open or close operation is the result of the direction of the motor rotation. Common causes include Faulty Liftgate Motor, Liftgate Motor harness is open or shorted, Liftgate Motor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
B396A Chevrolet indicates Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Liftgate Motor, Liftgate Motor harness is open or shorted, Liftgate Motor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,514
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 25, 2020
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Code B396A Chevrolet Description

The liftgate motor is a bi-directional motor and open or close operation is the result of the direction of the motor rotation. The Liftgate Control Module controls the liftgate motor through the control circuits by supplying power and ground in the appropriate polarity. The motor control circuits are monitored by the liftgate control module prior to activation for a high or low condition and during motor operation for any irregular current flow conditions. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the Liftgate Control Module detects a short to battery in the Liftgate Motor control circuits.
OBDII Code B396A Chevrolet - Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
B396A Chevrolet Code - Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B396A Chevrolet?

  • Faulty Liftgate Motor
  • Liftgate Motor harness is open or shorted
  • Liftgate Motor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Liftgate Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B396A Chevrolet?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B396A Chevrolet code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B396A Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B396A in a Chevrolet related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction?

- Common symptoms include the liftgate not opening or closing properly, unusual noises coming from the liftgate motor, and the liftgate getting stuck in one position.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B396A Chevrolet related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction?

- Possible causes include a faulty liftgate motor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning liftgate control module, or issues with the liftgate power supply.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B396A in my Chevrolet related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction?

- To diagnose the issue, you can start by checking the wiring and connectors for any visible damage, testing the liftgate motor for proper functionality, and scanning the liftgate control module for error codes.

4. Can I still manually open or close the liftgate if OBDII code B396A is present in my Chevrolet?

- In most cases, you should still be able to manually open or close the liftgate even if the code is present. Refer to your vehicle's manual for instructions on how to do this.

5. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code B396A related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction in a Chevrolet?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring, replacing the liftgate motor if necessary, resetting the liftgate control module, and ensuring a stable power supply to the liftgate system.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code B396A related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction?

- While it may be safe to drive, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage to the liftgate system and ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B396A in a Chevrolet related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may involve replacing the liftgate motor, repairing wiring, or reprogramming the liftgate control module. Costs can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

8. Can I reset OBDII code B396A related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction in my Chevrolet without professional help?

- You may be able to clear the code temporarily by disconnecting the car battery for a few minutes, but to address the underlying issue and prevent the code from reoccurring, it is recommended to seek professional help for diagnosis and repair.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance steps I can take to avoid OBDII code B396A related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction in my Chevrolet?

- Regularly inspecting the liftgate system for any signs of wear or damage, ensuring proper lubrication of moving parts, and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent the occurrence of this code.

10. Can OBDII code B396A related to the Liftgate Motor Power Open/Close Malfunction in a Chevrolet cause any other problems in the vehicle?

- While the code itself may not directly cause other problems, ignoring the issue can lead to further damage to the liftgate system, inconvenience in using the liftgate, and potential safety hazards. It is best to address the problem promptly.

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