High Pitch Noise AWD Mode(Non Mechanical)

precision45 · May 2, 2016

So this took me awhile to pinpoint when the noise was happening. Driving in 2wd mode you hear nothing at all. The minute you switch to AWD there is a very high-pitch electronic noise coming form around the 4wd-AWD knob/dash area(My Best guess). You can be parked and the noise is still there. It doesn't change when you drive. Just wanted to know if anyone else has heard this. I am going in for an oil change and will have them look at it. Any ideas?

SouthernSilveradoGuy85 · May 2, 2016

AWD and 4hi in a 4x4 vehicle are different. You only need 4x4 in the snow, ice or off-road. Other than that, keep it on 2hi. Auto 4x4 is if the road conditions aren't consistent. So it's patches of snow and/or ice with dry or went pavement.

precision45 · May 2, 2016

Sorry I meant to type Auto and not AWD. I understand how they all work. I'm more concerned about the annoying sound.

hayes369 · May 2, 2016

http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/index.php?/topic/155509-High-frequency-noise-coming-from-dash-when-in-4WD

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newdude · May 2, 2016

PIP5261A: Faint High Pitched Whine Noise In Auto 4 Wheel Drive

the following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.
Condition/Concern
Some customers may comment on a high pitched whine noise from the vehicle noticed when driving in auto 4wd. The customer may comment that it is an intermittent noise and no noticeable pattern to when it can be heard.
Recommendation/Instructions
The transfer case control module on these vehicles is located next to the accelerator pedal and is not covered by any close out or hush panels.

When the transfer case control module has to move the transfer case actuator motor the higher current passing through the module causes an "electronic buzz or whine" within some of the capacitors in the module that can be heard by some of our customers.

Typically this can only be heard with all accessories and HVAC off and only when actuator movement is required. This does not indicate a concern with the module and should not be replaced to address this concern.

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.

precision45 · May 3, 2016

Nice!!! Thank you both!!! Looks like it will be Dynomat and a little griping to the dealership to log the issue.....

FL335i · May 3, 2016

i must be deaf. I don't hear anything.

Roader · May 3, 2016

Nice!!! Thank you both!!! Looks like it will be Dynomat and a little griping to the dealership to log the issue.....

I took it in and they wouldn't do anything but print the TSB

TJay74 · May 3, 2016

I took it in and they wouldn't do anything but print the TSB

Correct, what else did you expect? It is a known and validated issue. GM has already researched it and advised the noise is from the motors in the actuator performing the required process and it is a normal noise and is not harmful in any way. If the sound bothers you then I would suggest sound proofing the area if possible.

Roader · May 4, 2016

Correct, what else did you expect? It is a known and validated issue. GM has already researched it and advised the noise is from the motors in the actuator performing the required process and it is a normal noise and is not harmful in any way. If the sound bothers you then I would suggest sound proofing the area if possible.

I took it a long time ago when there wasn't much info on the issue. A better solution would be for it to not make noise or put sound proofing around it since they know it does make noise. Why do I need to do GMs work on a $50k truck?

hurricanoday · May 4, 2016

I took it a long time ago when there wasn't much info on the issue. A better solution would be for it to not make noise or put sound proofing around it since they know it does make noise. Why do I need to do GMs work on a $50k truck?

Not sure if the whole tsb was posted, but it sounds like what you are complaining about is considered normal for these trucks. The thing that jumped out to me was Typically this can only be heard with all accessories and HVAC off and only when actuator movement is required.

Is it really that bad?

Roader · May 4, 2016

Not sure if the whole tsb was posted, but it sounds like what you are complaining about is considered normal for these trucks. The thing that jumped out to me was Typically this can only be heard with all accessories and HVAC off and only when actuator movement is required.

Is it really that bad?

I can hear it with the radio on but not as much. It's a high pitched, constant sound that does not go awayuntil you take it out of 4auto. Luckily I don't need 4auto often in Texas and am usually in 2wd or out on the ranch when I need 4hi or low

SouthernSilveradoGuy85 · May 4, 2016

I've only had mine in auto maybe 3 times give or take and haven't heard any kind of electrical high pitch sound. Haven't heard it in 4hi or 4lo either.

Jordan Mason gm · December 16, 2019

I've definitely heard this sound too. I have a '15 GMC Sierra with 49k miles that I just bought. As soon as I switch it into auto 4x4 or 4 high, instantly hear a high frequency chirp. Than as you lightly step on accelerator the noise continues for a brief moment. Also when you let off accelerator. Don't notice it as much above 40 mph. But whoever is hearing it, definitely isn't crazy!! It's been a couple years since last post... Anyone find any remedies?

Thank you

boettcher40 · December 16, 2019

1 hour ago, Jordan Mason gm said:

I've definitely heard this sound too. I have a '15 GMC Sierra with 49k miles that I just bought. As soon as I switch it into auto 4x4 or 4 high, instantly hear a high frequency chirp. Than as you lightly step on accelerator the noise continues for a brief moment. Also when you let off accelerator. Don't notice it as much above 40 mph. But whoever is hearing it, definitely isn't crazy!! It's been a couple years since last post... Anyone find any remedies?

Thank you

Exact same issue I have!! I bought my 14 SLT a few months ago and could not figure out what this noise was.. dealer told me it was rear brakes since they needed to be replaced but I knew they were full of shit. Finally found that post above, but wrapping the TCCM didn't do anything. The noise is still inside the switch.. so I will be ordering a new switch after the holidays and hopefully that takes care of my issue. Extremely annoying, especially in the midwest, so I feel your pain!