AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0381 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

C0381 2018 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 2018 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 283

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 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature - AutoCodes.com — C0381 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0381 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0381 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0381 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code C0381 mean on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Code C0381 indicates an issue with the Range Actuator System, specifically related to performance problems caused by high temperature.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C0381 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include difficulty shifting into 4WD, warning lights on the dashboard, reduced drivability, or unusual noises from the transfer case.

3. What causes the C0381 code to appear in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The code can be triggered by high temperatures affecting the range actuator, wiring issues, a malfunctioning actuator motor, or a failing transfer case component.

4. Can driving with the C0381 code cause further damage?

Yes, ignoring this code can lead to increased wear on the transfer case or drivetrain components, potentially resulting in more expensive repairs.

5. How is the C0381 code diagnosed on a Chevrolet Silverado?

Technicians typically use a diagnostic scanner to read the code, inspect the range actuator, check wiring and connectors, and perform temperature and voltage tests.

6. What repairs are commonly needed to fix the C0381 code?

Repairs may include replacing the range actuator, addressing wiring or connector issues, or servicing the transfer case if internal damage is found.

7. Can I fix the C0381 code on my Silverado myself?

If you’re experienced with vehicle repairs, you may be able to inspect connectors and replace the actuator, but complex transfer case issues are best handled by a professional.

8. How much does it cost to repair the C0381 code on a 2018 Silverado?

Repair costs can range from $200 to $800 depending on whether the actuator needs replacement or if transfer case repairs are required.

9. What preventive maintenance can help avoid the C0381 code?

Regularly inspecting and maintaining the transfer case fluid, checking wiring and connectors, and avoiding excessive strain on the 4WD system can help prevent this code.

10. Can a software update resolve the C0381 code on a Chevrolet Silverado?

In some cases, a software update for the vehicle’s control modules may address actuator performance issues, but hardware problems will still require repair.