AutoCodes – Oldsmobile – C0379 Oldsmobile

C0379 Oldsmobile Code - Front Axle System Malfunction

Quick Answer

The front axle control circuit consists of an electric motor actuator, which engages and disengages the front axle. Common causes include Faulty Front Axle Motor Actuator, Front Axle Motor Actuator harness is open or shorted, Front Axle Motor 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 Oldsmobile indicates Front Axle System Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Front Axle Motor Actuator, Front Axle Motor Actuator harness is open or shorted, Front Axle Motor 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 2,282
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 26, 2020
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Code C0379 Oldsmobile Description

The front axle control circuit consists of an electric motor actuator, which engages and disengages the front axle. The front axle actuator motor consists of a permanent magnetic motor, a worm gear controlled plunger, a front axle switch and an electronic control circuit, all within the actuator assembly.
The front axle actuator consists of the following circuits:
- The front axle control circuit, which is also connected to the transfer case shift control module
- The front axle switch circuit, which is also connected to the transfer case shift control module
- An ignition 3 voltage circuit
- A ground circuit
When a shift to AUTO 4WD, 4HI or 4LO is requested, the transfer case shift control module engages the front axle by grounding the front axle control circuit through a current limiting driver.
This DTC detects a short to ground, short to voltage or an open circuit.
OBDII Code C0379 Oldsmobile - Front Axle System Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
C0379 Oldsmobile Code - Front Axle System Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0379 Oldsmobile?

  • Faulty Front Axle Motor Actuator
  • Front Axle Motor Actuator harness is open or shorted
  • Front Axle Motor Actuator circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C0379 Oldsmobile?

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 Oldsmobile 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.

Need more information about the C0379 Oldsmobile code?

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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 Oldsmobile Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile (Front Axle System Malfunction)?

- Common symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, unusual noises coming from the front axle, and the vehicle feeling unstable or vibrating during acceleration.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile?

- The code C0379 Oldsmobile typically indicates issues with the front axle actuator, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning front axle disconnect actuator.

3. How can I diagnose the Front Axle System Malfunction related to OBDII code C0379?

- To diagnose the issue, you can use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code, visually inspect the front axle components for any visible damage, and test the front axle actuator for proper function.

4. Can I continue driving my vehicle with OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the Front Axle System Malfunction code active, as it can lead to further damage and potential safety hazards.

5. How can I repair OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile myself?

- Depending on the exact cause, repairing the issue may involve replacing the front axle actuator, repairing damaged wiring, or resetting the front axle disconnect actuator. It is advisable to consult a professional if you are not experienced in automotive repairs.

6. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile without addressing the underlying issue?

- While resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, it is crucial to address the root cause of the Front Axle System Malfunction to prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle's safety and performance.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile?

- The cost of repairing the Front Axle System Malfunction can vary depending on the exact cause, labor rates, and parts needed. It is recommended to obtain quotes from reputable automotive repair shops for an accurate estimate.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the Front Axle System Malfunction related to OBDII code C0379?

- Yes, extreme cold or wet conditions can exacerbate issues with the front axle components, leading to the triggering of the C0379 code. It is essential to keep the front axle components well-maintained, especially in harsh weather environments.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile?

- Regularly inspecting the front axle components for signs of wear or damage, keeping the front axle system well-lubricated, and addressing any unusual noises or vibrations promptly can help prevent the occurrence of the Front Axle System Malfunction.

10. Can OBDII code C0379 Oldsmobile be related to other vehicle systems or components?

- While the code specifically pertains to the Front Axle System Malfunction, it can sometimes be linked to issues with the transfer case, differential, or electronic control module. Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the exact cause.

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