AutoCodes – GMC – C0381 2015 GMC Sierra

C0381 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature

Quick Answer

The Transfer Case Motor, also known as the transfer case range actuator, is a bi-directional, permanent magnet, DC motor. Common causes include Faulty Transfer Case Motor (Transfer Case Two/Four Wheel Drive Actuator), Transfer Case Motor harness is open or shorted, Transfer Case 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: C0381 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transfer Case Motor (Transfer Case Two/Four Wheel Drive Actuator), Transfer Case Motor harness is open or shorted, Transfer Case 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.

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Code Popularity 221

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 05, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C0381 2015 GMC Sierra Description

The Transfer Case Motor, also known as the transfer case range actuator, is a bi-directional, permanent magnet, DC motor. When energized, through the transfer case clockwise circuit or transfer case counterclockwise circuit, the ground is provided by the opposing motor control circuit which becomes grounded through the transfer case control module ground circuit. The transfer case range actuator, through a series of gears, rotates the transfer case control actuator shaft which moves the transfer case two/four-wheel drive actuator cam and transfer case high/low shift fork in order to shift the transfer case between the following modes or ranges: 2WD, 4WD/AWD Automatic, 4WD High/Locked, 4WD Low and Neutral.

OBDII Code C0381 2015 GMC Sierra - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature - AutoCodes.com — C0381 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0381 2015 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Transfer Case Motor (Transfer Case Two/Four Wheel Drive Actuator)
Transfer Case Motor harness is open or shorted
Transfer Case Motor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Transfer Case Control Module

How to Fix the DTC C0381 2015 GMC Sierra?

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 C0381 2015 GMC Sierra 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 C0381 2015 GMC Sierra 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 C0381 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0381 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential overheating of the transmission or engine.

2. What does the OBDII code C0381 indicate in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Code C0381 signifies a Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature issue in the vehicle.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0381 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty range actuator, wiring issues, low transmission fluid levels, or a malfunctioning transmission temperature sensor.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code C0381 in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble code, inspecting the range actuator and associated wiring, checking transmission fluid levels, and testing the transmission temperature sensor.

5. Can I continue driving my 2015 GMC Sierra with OBDII code C0381?

It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code as it can lead to further damage to the transmission or engine components.

6. How can I repair OBDII code C0381 in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the range actuator, repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper transmission fluid levels, and replacing the transmission temperature sensor if necessary.

7. Is it safe to clear OBDII code C0381 in my 2015 GMC Sierra without repairing the issue?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying problem is not recommended, as the issue may persist and potentially cause more severe damage to the vehicle.

8. Can extreme weather conditions contribute to triggering OBDII code C0381 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, high temperatures or driving in hot climates can potentially lead to the Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature code being triggered.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance steps to avoid OBDII code C0381 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Regularly checking and maintaining transmission fluid levels, inspecting the range actuator system, and addressing any wiring issues promptly can help prevent this code from appearing.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code C0381 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may take a few hours to a day to diagnose and fix the Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature problem in the vehicle.