AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0381 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

C0381 2017 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 2017 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 215

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 2017 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 2017 Chevrolet Silverado - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature - AutoCodes.com — C0381 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0381 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0381 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0381 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does OBDII code C0381 mean for my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- OBDII code C0381 indicates an issue with the Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature in your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0381 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Common symptoms of OBDII code C0381 may include engine overheating, poor performance, and potential transmission shifting issues.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0381 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Possible causes of OBDII code C0381 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado include a faulty range actuator, high transmission fluid temperature, or wiring/connectivity issues.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code C0381 in my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Diagnosing OBDII code C0381 may involve using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble code, checking the transmission fluid temperature, and inspecting the range actuator for any signs of damage.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code C0381 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Repair tips for addressing OBDII code C0381 may include replacing the faulty range actuator, ensuring proper transmission fluid levels and cooling, and checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connections.

6. Can I continue to drive my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code C0381?

- It is not recommended to drive your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code C0381, as it can lead to further damage to the transmission system.

7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code C0381 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The cost to repair OBDII code C0381 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

8. Is OBDII code C0381 a common issue in 2017 Chevrolet Silverado vehicles?

- OBDII code C0381 is not one of the most common issues in 2017 Chevrolet Silverado vehicles, but it can still occur due to various factors affecting the range actuator system.

9. Can I reset OBDII code C0381 in my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado by disconnecting the battery?

- While disconnecting the battery may clear the code temporarily, it is not a recommended long-term solution, as the underlying issue causing OBDII code C0381 will still need to be addressed to prevent it from reoccurring.

10. Should I take my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado to a professional mechanic for OBDII code C0381 diagnosis and repair?

- It is advisable to take your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado to a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair of OBDII code C0381 to ensure the issue is accurately identified and fixed.