AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0387 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

C0387 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 233

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 11, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code C0387 2017 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, 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 2017 Chevrolet Silverado - Unable to Complete Shift - AutoCodes.com — C0387 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Unable to Complete Shift

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0387 2017 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

How to Fix the DTC C0387 2017 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 C0387 2017 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 C0387 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0387 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0387 2017 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 C0387 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code C0387 mean on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

The code C0387 indicates an issue with the transfer case range actuator circuit, which prevents the vehicle from completing a shift between transfer case modes.

2. What are the symptoms of code C0387 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common symptoms include the "Service 4WD" light on the dashboard, inability to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes, and unusual noises or hesitation when attempting to shift.

3. What causes the C0387 code on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes include a faulty transfer case range actuator, damaged wiring or connectors in the actuator circuit, or a malfunctioning transfer case control module (TCCM).

4. Can I drive my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with the C0387 code?

While you may still be able to drive, operating the vehicle with this code can limit transfer case functionality and may cause further damage if not addressed promptly.

5. How do I diagnose the C0387 code on my Silverado?

Start by inspecting the transfer case range actuator, checking for damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion. Use a scan tool to monitor the actuator's operation and confirm the fault.

6. How do I fix the C0387 code on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may involve replacing the transfer case range actuator, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming the TCCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair the C0387 code on a Silverado?

The cost can vary, but replacing the transfer case actuator typically ranges from $300 to $600, including parts and labor, while wiring repairs may cost less.

8. Can a bad transfer case control module cause the C0387 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning TCCM can cause improper communication with the actuator, leading to the C0387 code.

9. How can I prevent the C0387 code on my Silverado?

Regularly inspect the transfer case actuator and wiring for damage or corrosion, and ensure the transfer case is maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

10. Will clearing the code fix the problem permanently?

Clearing the code with a scan tool may temporarily turn off the warning light, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.