AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature

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: C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature.
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 210

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 C0381 2014 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 C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature - AutoCodes.com — C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0381 2014 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 C0381 2014 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 C0381 2014 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 C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 C0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

The common symptoms of OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado include poor fuel economy, engine performance issues, and potential overheating.

2. What does the OBDII code C0381 indicate for a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

OBDII code C0381 for a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature issue.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes of OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado include a faulty range actuator, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning temperature sensor.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code C0381 on my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

To diagnose OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble codes and then inspect the range actuator system components for any visible damage or issues.

5. Can I continue driving my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code C0381?

It is not recommended to continue driving your 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code C0381, as it can lead to further damage to the engine or other components.

6. How can I repair OBDII code C0381 on my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

To repair OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, you may need to replace the faulty range actuator, repair any wiring issues, or replace the malfunctioning temperature sensor.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado without fixing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the code, and the issue is likely to reoccur.

8. Are there any DIY tips for addressing OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

While some basic inspections can be done DIY, addressing OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado may require professional diagnosis and repair due to the complexity of the range actuator system.

9. How much can I expect to pay for repairing OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost of repairing OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve parts and labor costs ranging from $200 to $800 or more.

10. Can extreme weather conditions affect the occurrence of OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes, extreme weather conditions, particularly high temperatures, can potentially exacerbate the Range Actuator System Performance High Temperature issue associated with OBDII code C0381 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado.