AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0306 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

C0306 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator Control Circuit

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: C0306 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Range Actuator Control 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 263

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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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 C0306 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 and Neutral.

OBDII Code C0306 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Range Actuator Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — C0306 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0306 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
Faulty Transfer Case Control Module

How to Fix the DTC C0306 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 C0306 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 C0306 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 C0306 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

What does the OBDII code C0306 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

1. C0306 indicates an issue with the Range Actuator Control Circuit, which is responsible for controlling the transfer case shift. 2.

What are the common symptoms of code C0306?

Symptoms may include the "Service 4WD" light illuminating, inability to shift into 4WD or AWD modes, and unusual noises from the transfer case. 3.

What causes the C0306 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty range actuator motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning transfer case control module (TCCM). 4.

Can a bad transfer case motor cause the C0306 code?

Yes, a faulty or stuck range actuator motor is a common cause of this code and should be inspected. 5.

How can I diagnose the C0306 code?

Start by visually inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, check the fuse for the transfer case system, and use a scan tool to monitor the TCCM and actuator motor operation. 6.

Can I drive my truck with the C0306 code?

It is generally safe to drive in 2WD mode, but you may lose access to 4WD functionality. Prolonged driving without repair could cause further damage to the transfer case system. 7.

How do I fix the C0306 code on my 2016 Silverado?

Repairs may involve replacing the range actuator motor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or reprogramming or replacing the transfer case control module. 8.

Is a software update required to fix the C0306 code?

In some cases, a software update for the transfer case control module may resolve the issue, but this depends on the specific diagnosis. 9.

How much does it cost to repair the C0306 code?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $200 to $800, depending on whether you need a new actuator motor, wiring repairs, or TCCM replacement. 10.

Can I fix the C0306 code myself?

If you have experience with automotive electrical systems, you can attempt basic inspections and repairs, such as checking wiring and fuses. However, advanced diagnostics may require professional assistance.