AutoCodes – GMC – C0398 2016 GMC Sierra

C0398 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Range Actuator Position - Range Position Correlation

Quick Answer

The Transfer Case Control Module always monitors the Gear Position Sensor signal circuit and the Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor signal circuit. Common causes include Faulty Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor, Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor 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: C0398 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Range Actuator Position - Range Position Correlation.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor, Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor 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 429

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 12, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C0398 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Transfer Case Control Module always monitors the Gear Position Sensor signal circuit and the Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor signal circuit. The signal voltage values are converted to degrees to determine the position of the transfer case. The Transfer Case Control Module continuously compares the position of the Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor to that of the Gear Position Sensor. If the positions do not match within a pre-determined range, it is considered an error and a fault is set. The Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor is a higher resolution sensor and is more accurate but requires the Gear Position Sensor for correlation check at ignition ON and during transfer case range changes. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Range Actuator Position Sensor and the Range Position Sensor are both showing valid positions but differ by greater than a predetermined amount when no range change is in progress. The Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor, also known as the incremental position sensor, is part of the Transfer Case Motor. The Gear Position Sensor, also known as the Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor, the Two/Four Wheel Drive Actuator Position Sensor, or the rotational position sensor.

OBDII Code C0398 2016 GMC Sierra - Range Actuator Position - Range Position Correlation - AutoCodes.com — C0398 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Range Actuator Position - Range Position Correlation

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0398 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor
Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Transfer Case Range Actuator Position Sensor (part of the Transfer Case Motor or Transfer Case Two/Four Wheel Drive Actuator)
Faulty Transfer Case Control Module

How to Fix the DTC C0398 2016 GMC Sierra?

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 C0398 2016 GMC Sierra 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 C0398 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0398 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 C0398 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code C0398 mean for a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The C0398 code indicates an issue with the Range Actuator Position sensor, specifically a correlation error between the detected range position and the actual range actuator position.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C0398 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include the Check Engine Light or Service 4WD light turning on, difficulty shifting between 4WD modes, or the vehicle being stuck in a specific drive mode.

3. What causes the C0398 code to appear in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a malfunctioning range actuator, a faulty position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or software issues in the transfer case control module (TCCM).

4. How is the C0398 code diagnosed?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the range actuator and position sensor, check the wiring and connectors for damage, and test the TCCM for proper functionality.

5. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the C0398 code active?

Driving may be possible, but it can lead to further damage to the transfer case if the issue is not addressed. Itâ€™s best to have it repaired promptly.

6. How do you fix the C0398 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the range actuator, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, recalibrating the range position sensor, or updating/reprogramming the TCCM.

7. Is the C0398 code specific to the 2016 GMC Sierra?

No, the C0398 code can appear in other GM vehicles with similar 4WD systems, but the exact repair steps may vary by model.

8. How much does it cost to fix the C0398 code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs can range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on whether the range actuator or wiring needs replacement and labor costs in your area.

9. Can a bad transfer case cause the C0398 code?

Yes, internal issues in the transfer case can cause correlation errors and trigger the C0398 code, but this is less common compared to sensor or actuator malfunctions.

10. Do I need to recalibrate the system after repairing the C0398 issue?

Yes, after replacing the range actuator or position sensor, recalibration using a scan tool is often required to ensure proper operation of the 4WD system.