AutoCodesChevrolet – C039E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

C039E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator Position Sensor Direction Signal 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
C039E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Range Actuator Position Sensor Direction Signal 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 319
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 C039E 2018 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 C039E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - Range Actuator Position Sensor Direction Signal Circuit - AutoCodes.com
C039E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator Position Sensor Direction Signal Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C039E 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 C039E 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C039E 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 C039E 2018 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 C039E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code C039E mean on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The code C039E indicates an issue with the Range Actuator Position Sensor Direction Signal Circuit, which monitors the transfer case range actuator's movement.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C039E on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the Service 4WD light illuminating, failure to shift into 4WD or 2WD modes, or unusual noises from the transfer case.

3. What causes the C039E code to be triggered?

This code can be caused by a faulty range actuator position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or an issue with the transfer case control module.

4. Can a faulty transfer case motor cause the C039E code?

Yes, a malfunctioning transfer case motor can lead to improper range actuator operation, triggering the C039E code.

5. How do you diagnose the C039E code on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves scanning for codes, inspecting the range actuator position sensor and its wiring, and testing the transfer case motor and control module functionality.

6. Is it safe to drive with the C039E code active?

While it may be possible to drive, the vehicle’s ability to shift between 2WD and 4WD may be impaired, which could affect handling in certain conditions.

7. How is the C039E code fixed on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the range actuator position sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the transfer case control module.

8. Can a software update fix the C039E code?

In some cases, a software update for the transfer case control module may resolve the issue if it’s related to communication or calibration errors.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the C039E code?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to check wiring continuity, and possibly a service manual for wiring diagrams and component locations.

10. How much does it cost to fix the C039E code on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs vary, but replacing a range actuator position sensor typically costs $200–$400, including parts and labor, while wiring repairs could be less depending on the damage.

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