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.

Circuit/System Description

When transfer case is in auto 4WD mode the transfer case control module monitors the front wheel speeds and the rear wheel speeds. When a noticeable difference between the front and rear is seen the transfer case control module sends a PWM voltage to the motor so it can apply the clutch in order to correct a slip condition. The slip conditions is the difference in speed between the front and rear axles. The module has a thermal model based system so when the slip correction can not be made when a large percentage PWM signal has been sent, it will disable the system to prevent damage to the clutches.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Transfer Case Control Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Transfer Case Control Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

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

DTC Type Reference

DTC Symptom Description

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions

Diagnostic Aids

Erratic wheel speed sensors can cause this condition to occur. Monitor the wheel speeds using the EBCM scan tool data list.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Monitor the wheel speed sensors using the EMCM scan tool data list. If the wheel speeds are erratic or there is a large difference between front and rear then diagnose and repair as necessary. Check for EBCM DTCs as they have likely set for wheel speed performance.
  2. If nothing is found with wheel speed performance then the clutches may be excessively warn. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Transfer Case Disassemble