AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0387 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

C0387 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Unable to Complete Shift

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
C0387 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Unable to Complete Shift.
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 316
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 11, 2023
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Code C0387 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, Neutral.
If the shift lever detent shaft were to bind, or there was a mechanical failure, or the transfer case clockwise circuit and the transfer case counterclockwise circuit were shorted together, the shift would not be completed. This will cause the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) to be set in order to protect system components from damage.
OBDII Code C0387 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Unable to Complete Shift - AutoCodes.com
C0387 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Unable to Complete Shift

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0387 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

How to Fix the DTC C0387 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 C0387 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 C0387 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 C0387 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code C0387 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

C0387 indicates an issue with the Transfer Case Range Shift Actuator Position Circuit, often preventing the transfer case from completing a shift.

2. What are the common symptoms of the C0387 code in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the "Service 4WD" light illuminating, inability to switch between 2WD and 4WD, and unusual noises or hesitation during shifting.

3. What causes the C0387 code on a 2016 Chevy Silverado?

Common causes include a faulty transfer case shift motor, wiring issues in the actuator circuit, or a malfunctioning transfer case control module (TCCM).

4. Can a bad transfer case shift motor trigger the C0387 code?

Yes, a failing transfer case shift motor is a leading cause of the C0387 code since it controls the range shift operation.

5. How do you diagnose the C0387 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to check for related codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the transfer case shift motor and position sensor.

6. Can a blown fuse cause the C0387 code?

Yes, a blown fuse related to the transfer case system can interrupt power to the shift motor or control module, triggering this code.

7. Is the transfer case control module (TCCM) often the problem with a C0387 code?

While less common, a faulty TCCM can cause the C0387 code if it fails to properly communicate with the transfer case shift motor.

8. How can the C0387 code be resolved on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the transfer case shift motor, repairing damaged wiring, clearing debris from the transfer case, or reprogramming or replacing the TCCM.

9. Is it safe to drive with the C0387 code active?

Driving may be possible, but it can be unsafe if the vehicle cannot shift into the proper drive mode for road conditions, especially if 4WD is needed.

10. What tools are needed to fix the C0387 code?

You will typically need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing electrical components, and possibly specialty tools for accessing the transfer case shift motor.

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