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 C0306: Motor A or B Circuit Malfunction

Circuit/System Description

The transfer case encoder motor is a permanent magnet DC motor and gear reduction assembly. When energized through motor feed A, motor control B provides the ground through the transfer case shift control module ground circuit. The motor, through a series of gears, rotates the sector shaft of the transfer case which applies varying force to a set of clutch plates, controlling the torque applied to the front wheels.

This DTC detects the following conditions:

    • An open in the motor feed A or motor control B circuits
    • A short to voltage in the motor feed A or motor control B circuits
    • A short to ground in the motor feed A or motor control B circuits
    • An open in the module ground circuit
    • An open inside the motor
    • A short to ground inside the motor

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • System voltage is 9-18 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The system tests the motor circuits by checking for unwanted voltage.
    • Then, the system supplies voltage on each of the motor circuits and reads the voltage back on the other circuit.
    • If the system detects a condition with the circuits, the DTC is logged. The transfer case shift control module senses a low voltage return in the motor feed A or motor control B circuits when a high voltage is expected.
    • The fault must remain current for 30 seconds to set the DTC.
    • The transfer case shift control module provides a reference voltage of 4.5 volts on the motor A/B line for diagnostic purposes.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • All shifting is disabled.
    • The SERVICE AWD 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 no longer exists.
    • A history DTC clears after 100 consecutive ignition cycles without a fault present.
    • History DTCs can be cleared using a scan tool.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Transfer Case Control Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Transfer Case Description and Operation

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.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.