AutoCodes – Cadillac – C0379 Cadillac

C0379 Cadillac Code - Front Axle Switch Circuit

Quick Answer

The front axle control circuit consists of an electric motor actuator that engages and disengages the front axle. Common causes include Faulty Front Axle Engagement Actuator, Front Axle Engagement Actuator harness is open or shorted, Front Axle Engagement Actuator 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
C0379 Cadillac indicates Front Axle Switch Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Front Axle Engagement Actuator, Front Axle Engagement Actuator harness is open or shorted, Front Axle Engagement Actuator 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.
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Code Popularity 1,102
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 11, 2023
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Code C0379 Cadillac Description

The front axle control circuit consists of an electric motor actuator that engages and disengages the front axle. The front axle engagement actuator consists of a permanent magnetic motor, a worm gear-controlled plunger, a front axle switch, and an electronic control circuit within the actuator assembly.
The front axle engagement actuator contains the following circuits: A Run/Crank Ignition 1 Voltage circuit, a Four-Wheel Drive Wheel Lock Indicator circuit, a Front Axle Actuator Control circuit, and a ground circuit.
When a shift to 4WD Auto, 4WD High, or 4WD Low is requested, the Transfer Case Control Module engages the front axle by grounding the front axle actuator control circuit through a current limiting driver.
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when a short to ground, short to voltage, or open circuit is detected.
OBDII Code C0379 Cadillac - Front Axle Switch Circuit - AutoCodes.com
C0379 Cadillac Code - Front Axle Switch Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0379 Cadillac?

  • Faulty Front Axle Engagement Actuator
  • Front Axle Engagement Actuator harness is open or shorted
  • Front Axle Engagement Actuator circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Transfer Case Control Module

How to Fix the DTC C0379 Cadillac?

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 C0379 Cadillac 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 C0379 Cadillac Code

1. What does the OBDII code C0379 mean on a Cadillac?

C0379 indicates an issue with the front axle switch circuit, often related to the vehicle's four-wheel-drive system or transfer case.

2. What are the common symptoms of a C0379 code in a Cadillac?

Symptoms can include the 4WD system not engaging properly, warning lights on the dash (such as "Service 4WD"), or difficulty switching between drive modes.

3. What causes the C0379 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty front axle switch, damaged wiring or connectors in the switch circuit, or issues with the transfer case control module.

4. Can a bad front axle switch cause the C0379 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning front axle switch is a primary cause of the C0379 code, as it disrupts communication with the control module.

5. How do I diagnose the C0379 code on my Cadillac?

Start by inspecting the front axle switch and its electrical connections for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test the circuit and check for continuity issues.

6. Is it safe to drive with the C0379 code active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, the 4WD system may not operate as intended, which could compromise performance in slippery or off-road conditions.

7. How can I fix the C0379 code on my Cadillac?

Repairs typically involve replacing the faulty front axle switch, repairing damaged wiring, or reprogramming the transfer case control module if necessary.

8. Can a software update resolve the C0379 code?

In some cases, a software update for the transfer case control module may resolve the issue, but this depends on the specific vehicle and diagnostic findings.

9. How much does it cost to repair the C0379 code?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue is with the switch itself or the wiring.

10. Will clearing the C0379 code with a scan tool fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove the warning, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

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