AutoCodes – Cadillac – C0387 Cadillac

C0387 Cadillac 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 Cadillac 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 1,000
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 Cadillac 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 Cadillac - Unable to Complete Shift - AutoCodes.com
C0387 Cadillac Code - Unable to Complete Shift

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0387 Cadillac?

  • 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 Cadillac?

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 Cadillac 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 Cadillac code?

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Need Help with the 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 Cadillac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0387 in a Cadillac related to "Unable to Complete Shift"?

- Common symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, delayed shifting, or the transmission getting stuck in a particular gear.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0387 in a Cadillac?

- The code C0387 typically indicates an issue with the shift solenoid, transmission fluid level, transmission control module, or wiring/connectivity problems.

3. How can I diagnose the root cause of OBDII code C0387 in my Cadillac?

- Diagnosing the issue may involve conducting a thorough inspection of the transmission system, checking the transmission fluid level and condition, and using a scan tool to retrieve additional diagnostic trouble codes.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code C0387 in a Cadillac?

- Repairing OBDII code C0387 may require advanced knowledge and tools, making it more suitable for experienced DIY enthusiasts or professional mechanics.

5. What are some recommended repair tips for resolving OBDII code C0387 in a Cadillac?

- Start by checking and topping up the transmission fluid, inspecting the shift solenoid for any damage or blockages, examining the wiring harness for any signs of wear or corrosion, and ensuring proper connectivity between components.

6. How critical is it to address OBDII code C0387 in a Cadillac promptly?

- Ignoring OBDII code C0387 can lead to further transmission damage, potential safety issues, and increased repair costs over time. It's recommended to address the issue promptly.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my Cadillac with OBDII code C0387 present?

- It is not advisable to continue driving your Cadillac with OBDII code C0387 present, as it can lead to transmission-related problems and potentially compromise the vehicle's drivability.

8. How can I reset OBDII code C0387 in a Cadillac after making the necessary repairs?

- After repairing the underlying issue causing OBDII code C0387, you can reset the code using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes to clear the error code.

9. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code C0387 in Cadillac vehicles?

- It's recommended to check with an authorized Cadillac dealership or refer to the manufacturer's website to see if there are any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code C0387 for specific Cadillac models.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code C0387 from occurring in the future in my Cadillac?

- Regular maintenance of the transmission system, including checking and changing the transmission fluid at recommended intervals, can help prevent issues like OBDII code C0387 from occurring in the future.

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