AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado

C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator Position Sensor Circuit

Quick Answer

The Transfer Case Control Module receives input from the range actuator position sensor and the transfer case range position sensor. 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
C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Range Actuator Position Sensor Circuit.
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 294
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 C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Transfer Case Control Module receives input from the range actuator position sensor and the transfer case range position sensor. Both sensors send this information as voltage signals which are converted to degrees and rotational direction by the Transfer Case Control Module software. If the two sensors disagree by greater than a predetermined amount the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set.
The range actuator position sensor receives an 8-volt reference signal from the Transfer Case Control Module. In return, the range actuator position sensor sends the Transfer Case Control Module a variable pulse width modulated signal indicating the position of the transfer case and a range actuator position direction signal. The range actuator position sensor, inside the A16 transfer case motor, also known as the transfer case range actuator, works in conjunction with the range position sensor to confirm the transfer case position. The range actuator position sensor is more sensitive than the transfer case range position sensor and is able to indicate to the Transfer Case Control Module the exact position of the transfer case between range changes. It is also able to show how much clutch activation is being commanded at any time.
The transfer case range position sensor, also known as the transfer case two/four-wheel drive actuator position sensor, receives a 5-volt reference signal from the Transfer Case Control Module and sends back a continuously variable pulse width modulated signal to the Transfer Case Control Module. This continuously variable signal indicates the position of the transfer case actuator.
The range actuator position sensor is more sensitive than the transfer case range position sensor but needs to reference the transfer case range position sensor value at ignition ON and mode changes. The transfer case range position sensor is an absolute sensor. The Transfer Case Control Module synchronizes the range actuator position sensor with the transfer case range position sensor at ignition ON and mode changes.
The range actuator position sensor is an integral part of the A16 Transfer Case Motor and cannot be replaced independently.
The transfer case range position sensor, also known as the gear position sensor, is an independently replaceable part.
OBDII Code C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado - Range Actuator Position Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com
C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator Position Sensor Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0396 2015 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 C0396 2015 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C0396 2015 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 C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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 C0396 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does OBDII code C0396 on a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado mean?

The code C0396 indicates a problem with the Range Actuator Position Sensor Circuit in the transmission system of the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0396 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common symptoms of code C0396 may include issues with shifting gears, hesitation or jerking during acceleration, and the transmission getting stuck in a specific gear.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0396 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes of code C0396 include a faulty range actuator position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunction in the transmission control module.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code C0396 in my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosing code C0396 typically involves using a scan tool to read the code, checking the wiring and connectors related to the range actuator position sensor, and performing tests to determine if the sensor is functioning correctly.

5. Can I continue driving my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code C0396?

It is not recommended to continue driving your vehicle with code C0396 as it can cause further damage to the transmission system. It is best to address the issue promptly to avoid potential safety hazards.

6. How can I repair OBDII code C0396 in my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairing code C0396 may involve replacing the range actuator position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or resetting the transmission control module after addressing the underlying issue.

7. Is it necessary to reset the OBDII code C0396 after repairing my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes, it is important to reset the code after repairing the issue to clear the fault code from the vehicle's system and ensure that the repair was successful.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code C0396 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Depending on your automotive repair skills and knowledge, you may be able to address code C0396 yourself by following diagnostic procedures and repair steps outlined in the vehicle's service manual.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code C0396 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost of repairing code C0396 can vary depending on the underlying cause of the issue, the parts needed for repair, and whether you choose to do the repair yourself or take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.

10. What are some preventive measures to avoid OBDII code C0396 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

To prevent code C0396, it is recommended to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle, address any transmission-related issues promptly, and avoid driving aggressively or towing heavy loads that can put stress on the transmission system.

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