AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0381 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

C0381 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 251

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature - AutoCodes.com — C0381 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0381 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0381 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code C0381 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

C0381 indicates a problem with the Range Actuator System, specifically related to its performance under high-temperature conditions.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C0381 in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include 4WD system malfunction warnings, inability to shift between 4WD modes, or strange noises from the transfer case.

3. What causes the C0381 code to appear in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include an overheated range actuator, faulty actuator motor, transfer case issues, or wiring problems such as corroded or damaged connectors.

4. Can I drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with the C0381 code?

While the truck may still be drivable, the 4WD system may not function correctly, which could be problematic in off-road or slippery conditions.

5. How can I diagnose the C0381 code on my Silverado?

Diagnosis involves scanning for codes, inspecting the range actuator and wiring for damage, and monitoring the actuator's temperature data during operation.

6. How do I fix the C0381 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may involve replacing the range actuator, repairing wiring or connectors, or addressing transfer case issues, depending on the specific cause.

7. Is the C0381 code related to the transfer case in my Silverado?

Yes, the code is directly related to the transfer case's range actuator, which controls shifting between 4WD modes.

8. How much does it cost to repair the C0381 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs can range from $200 to $800, depending on whether the range actuator, wiring, or transfer case needs repair or replacement.

9. Can extreme driving conditions trigger the C0381 code?

Yes, excessive heat from towing, off-roading, or prolonged 4WD use can overheat the range actuator and trigger the code.

10. Do I need to replace the range actuator to clear the C0381 code?

Not always; first inspect and test the actuator and related components. Repairs to wiring or addressing overheating issues may resolve the code without replacement.