Test Description

2001 Chevrolet Suburban C1500SECTION Test Description
WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. Tests the electrical function of the front axle actuator. Helps determine between mechanical and electrical malfunctions.

  2. Tests for proper power and ground at the front axle actuator.

  3. Tests the operation of the front axle control circuit.

  4. Tests the electrical function of the front axle actuator control circuit.

  5. Tests for proper supply voltage to the front axle actuator.

  6. Tests for open fuse in the front axle feed circuit.

  7. Tests the front axle control circuit for an open or high resistance.

  8. Tests the front axle switch circuit for an open or high resistance.

  9. 10 

    Helps determine if the front axle actuator has a mechanical malfunction.

  10. 11 

    Tests the front axle switch circuit for a short to voltage.

  11. 12 

    Inspect the front axle for a mechanical malfunction.

Front Axle Will Not Disengage

Step Action Value(s) Yes No
Schematic Reference:  Transfer Case Control Schematics  
1 Was the Transfer Case Diagnostic System Check performed? - Go to Step 2  Go to Diagnostic System Check - Transfer Case 
  1. Turn the ignition ON, with the engine OFF.
  2. Ensure that the vehicle is in 2WD mode.
  3. Install a scan tool.
  4. Use the scan tool in order to read the Front Axle Switch Status.
Does the scan tool display the Front Axle Switch status as Locked?
- Go to Step 10  Go to Step 3 
  1. Turn the ignition OFF.
  2. Disconnect the front axle actuator.
  3. Turn the ignition ON, with the engine OFF.
  4. Measure the voltage between the front axle feed circuit and the front axle ground circuit at the front axle actuator.
Is the voltage reading within the specified values?
9-14 V Go to Step 4  Go to Step 6 
  1. Connect a test lamp between the front axle feed circuit and the front axle control circuit at the front axle actuator.
  2. Observe the test lamp, while using the scan tool in order to engage the front axle.
Does the test lamp light?
- Go to Step 5  Go to Step 8 
  1. Connect a fused jumper wire between the front axle feed circuit and the front axle switch circuit.
  2. Use the scan tool in order to read the Front Axle Switch status.
Does the scan tool display the Front Axle Switch status Locked?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 9 
Measure the voltage between the front axle feed circuit and ground.
Is the voltage reading within the specified values?
9-14 V Go to Step 13  Go to Step 7 
Test for open fuse in the front axle feed circuit. Refer to Circuit Testing , and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Was the condition found and corrected?
- Go to Step 17  Go to Step 14 
Test the front axle control circuit for an open or high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing , and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Was the condition found and corrected?
- Go to Step 17  Go to Step 16 
Test the front axle switch circuit for an open or high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing , and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Was the condition found and corrected?
- Go to Step 17  Go to Step 16 
10 
  1. Disconnect the front axle actuator.
  2. Use the scan tool in order to read the Front Axle Switch status.
Does the scan tool display the Front Axle Switch status Locked?
- Go to Step 11  Go to Step 12 
11  Test the front axle switch circuit for a short to voltage. Refer to Circuit Testing , and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Was the condition found and corrected?
- Go to Step 17  Go to Step 16 
12  Inspect the front axle for a mechanical malfunction.
Was the condition found and corrected?
- Go to Step 17  Go to Step 16 
13 Repair an open in the front axle ground circuit. Refer to Circuit Testing , and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Is the repair complete?
- Go to Step 17  -
14 Repair an open in the front axle feed circuit. Refer to Circuit Testing , and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Is the repair complete?
- Go to Step 17  -
15 Replace the front axle switch/actuator. Refer to Electric Motor Actuator Replacement .
Is the repair complete?
- Go to Step 17  -
16 Replace the transfer case shift control module. Refer to Transfer Case Shift Control Module Replacement .
Is the repair complete?
- Go to Step 17  -
17
  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs .
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for allowing the symptom to re-occur.
Does the symptom re-occur?
- Go to Step 2  System OK
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.