GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0374 54: General System Performance Temperature High

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Invalid

General System Performance

C0374 54

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Circuit/System Description

The general system performance DTC sets based on a thermal module within the transfer case shift control module software. The components included in this thermal model are the motor driver within the transfer case shift control module, the shift motor, and the clutch inside the transfer case.

The General System Performance includes the following components:

    • The transfer case shift control module
    • The transfer case clutch
    • The transfer case shift motor

This fault occurs when one of the three components included in the thermal model surpass the upper limits of this model indicating possible damage to the transfer case or other driveline components. This DTC detects an over temperature condition base on a thermal model.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • System voltage is 10.5-18 volts.
    • DTC C0896 is not set.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

This DTC sets if one of three components: motor driver inside the transfer case shift control module, transfer case clutch, or the shift motor, exceed the thermal model within the software for the module.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • All range and mode changes will be disabled while the DTC is current.
    • The SERVICE 4WD indicator remains illuminated for the remainder of the current ignition cycle.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The transfer case shift control module clears the DTC if the condition for setting the DTC is not currently present.
    • A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles without a fault present.
    • History and current DTCs can be cleared using a scan tool.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Transfer Case Control Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information.

Circuit/System Testing

The DTC can be set by more than one type of fault. It could be set by faulty wheel speed sensors, a front axle actuator not mechanically engaging, a worn transfer case clutch, or a motor brake not holding properly causing excessive motor engagement.

  1. This system compares front wheel speeds to rear wheel speeds to determine if slip is occurring and clutch engagement is necessary to correct this condition if the front axle actuator has not mechanically engaged this slip correction can not happen and the DTC will set.
  2. Place the vehicle on a hoist, turn the ignition on, engine off and shift the transfer case to 2WD. With a scan tool command the front axle actuator on using special functions in the scan tool. While one person is holding one of the front tires still, spin the other front tire if the front propshaft turns then the front axle is engaged. If it is engaged go to the next step. If not, tear down and inspect the front axle clutch fork for mechanical binding.
  3. Using the scan tool, go into EBCM data display and find the front and rear.
  4. Take the vehicle on a short test drive on a level and smooth surface. Compare the front wheel speeds to the rear wheel speeds. If the wheel speeds are erratic or they drop out, this would cause this DTC to set. Consider checking the EBCM for DTCs for the wheel speeds. If the wheel speeds are erratic, use the DTC diagnostics in antilock brakes to diagnose the condition. If this appears normal, to too the next step.
  5. The next check will be to see if the motor brake is holding. If it does not, this will cause the motor to stay engaged for extended periods of time causing it to exceed the thermal model.
  6. With a scan tool clear the DTC, shift the vehicle to 2WD, and monitor the transfer case motor amperage using the data display. Shift the vehicle to the 4 high mode if the amperage goes up while the motor is shifting and goes back to 0 amps in 5 seconds or less then the brake is holding. If the amperage stays high longer, this indicates the brake is not holding and the actuator will need to be replaced. If the brake holds, go to the next step.
  7. Next will be checking the transfer case clutch integrity.
  8. Place the vehicle for 4 high and take it for a test drive. Clear the DTC if possible. Monitor front and rear wheel speeds using the EBCM data display. Under heavy acceleration, monitor the front and rear wheel speeds. If the front wheel speeds are much lower, this indicates a weak clutch and a transfer case tear down and inspection will be required. If all of the above check all check out good replace the transfer case shift control module if the DTC continues to set and perform the motor learn procedure/Transfer Case High/Low Clutch Reset.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Control Module References for TCSCM replacement, setup, and programming
    •  Transfer Case High/Low Clutch Reset for Motor Learn Procedure
    •  Four-Wheel Drive Does Not Engage
    •  Front Drive Axle Clutch Fork Inspection
    •  Transfer Case Assembly Replacement