I'm told that it could be the switch for the 4X4 system ( on the dash ), or the Encoder motor sensor or the encoder motor on the transfer case. The service writer at the GM dealer says that I cannot replace the Encoder motor/sensor myself because once you remove the old one and install and plug in the new one it has to be programmed first. Is this true? The dealer wants to charge $218.00 in labor to replace the motor plus $557 for the new part (if that is indeed the problem). How will they determine whether it is the Encoder Motor, the sensor, or the switch on the dash? Will they simply plug in a scanner and read codes or will they actually do electrical testing on each part and measure resistances? I'm trying to save as much money as I can. I found the OEM replacement Encoder motor/sensor for $249 on eBay. It's held on by 2 bolts, can't take more than 10 - 15 minutes to change myself. Can I change it myself and then drive it to a shop with a scanner to have it programmed? Any help would be appreciated.

I'm told that it could be the switch for the 4X4 system ( on the dash ), or the Encoder motor sensor or the encoder motor on the transfer case. The service writer at the GM dealer says that I cannot replace the Encoder motor/sensor myself because once you remove the old one and install and plug in the new one it has to be programmed first. Is this true? The dealer wants to charge $218.00 in labor to replace the motor plus $557 for the new part (if that is indeed the problem). How will they determine whether it is the Encoder Motor, the sensor, or the switch on the dash? Will they simply plug in a scanner and read codes or will they actually do electrical testing on each part and measure resistances? I'm trying to save as much money as I can. I found the OEM replacement Encoder motor/sensor for $249 on eBay. It's held on by 2 bolts, can't take more than 10 - 15 minutes to change myself. Can I change it myself and then drive it to a shop with a scanner to have it programmed? Any help would be appreciated.

this does not need to be programed...the question is what is your problem ????also did the dealer pull the DTC drive train codes ??
or is he just guessing at YOUR expense..

log in with the drive train DTC and your issues with the 4X4 ....then answers can be given...you are not the first with this problem...

no programing is required...it could also be the 4x4 control circuit next to the dash 4x4 switch...