C0750 on 2007-2014 Chevrolet Equinox: TPMS Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2007-2014 Chevrolet EQUINOX

On this generation of Equinox, code C0750 has two very distinct and common causes. While it often points to a simple failed tire sensor due to age, it is also frequently a symptom of a failing Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR). This module processes signals from both the TPMS sensors and your key fobs. A failing RCDLR can trigger multiple TPMS codes (C0750, C0755, C0760, C0765) and cause the key fobs to stop working simultaneously, a link documented extensively in GM Technical Service Bulletins. Forum users report that a temporary fix, such as disconnecting the battery or pulling the 'DSM' fuse, can restore function, further pointing to a faulty RCDLR module rather than the sensor itself.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: This range covers the first generation (2007-2009) and the second generation (2010-2014) Equinox. The code's meaning is the same for both, but the specific TPMS sensor and RCDLR part numbers are different. Always verify the part number with your vehicle's VIN.

Symptoms You May Notice

• TPMS warning light flashes for about a minute and then stays on solid after starting the vehicle.
🎬 Watch: See what this warning message looks like on your dash.
• "Service Tire Monitor System" message appears on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
• Tire pressure display for the left front (LF) tire shows dashes ("--") instead of a pressure reading.
• Key fob functions (lock, unlock, remote start) may fail to work intermittently or completely.
• "No Remote Detected" message on the DIC, potentially leading to a no-start condition.
• Very poor key fob range, requiring you to be right next to the vehicle for it to work.

Most Likely Causes

1. Dead TPMS Sensor Battery 🔴 High Probability → Shop Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor TPMS sensors use sealed, non-replaceable batteries with a finite lifespan of 7-10 years. Vehicles in this 2007-2014 range are at or beyond the typical life expectancy of the original sensors.
   How to confirm: A professional TPMS diagnostic tool can be used to 'ping' the sensor. If the sensor does not respond, its battery is dead or it has failed internally. This is the most likely cause if C0750 appears alone and key fob functions are normal.
   Typical fix: Replace the left front TPMS sensor. The new sensor must be 'relearned' to the vehicle.
   Est. part cost: $30-$90
2. Faulty Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Keyless Entry Receiver This is a well-documented failure point on many GM vehicles from this era, as noted in TSB 16-NA-396. The RCDLR processes signals for both TPMS and keyless entry, and internal failure can disrupt both systems. Some TSBs mention it as a software issue where the module 'goes to sleep' and doesn't wake up.
   How to confirm: This is the likely cause if you have codes for multiple TPMS sensors (e.g., C0750, C0755, C0760, C0765) and your key fobs have also stopped working. A temporary fix can be achieved by disconnecting the car battery for 10-15 minutes or pulling the fuse labeled 'DSM' to reset the module. If this restores function, the RCDLR is failing.
   Typical fix: Replace the RCDLR module. The new module must be programmed to the vehicle by a dealer or a properly equipped shop. The RCDLR is located behind the passenger side rear quarter panel trim (C-pillar area) on 1st Gen models and in a similar location on 2nd Gen models.
   Est. part cost: $70-$150
3. Damaged TPMS Sensor ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor Sensors can be physically broken during tire installation, removal, or from a severe pothole impact.
   How to confirm: Visual inspection after dismounting the tire. The sensor may be cracked, broken off its valve stem, or otherwise visibly damaged.
   Typical fix: Replace the damaged TPMS sensor and perform the relearn procedure.
   Est. part cost: $30-$90

Rare But Worth Checking

• Poor RCDLR Antenna Connection:

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for other DTCs. If C0755, C0760, and C0765 are also present, the RCDLR is the primary suspect.
2. Test all key fob functions (lock, unlock, panic, remote start). If they do not work, the RCDLR is the most likely cause.
3. As a temporary fix and diagnostic step, disconnect the negative battery terminal for 15 minutes or pull the 'DSM' fuse in the interior fuse panel to reset the RCDLR. If function returns, the RCDLR is faulty and will likely fail again.
4. If only C0750 is present and the key fobs work correctly, the issue is almost certainly the left front sensor itself.
5. Use a TPMS diagnostic tool to attempt to activate the left front sensor. If it fails to respond, the sensor needs to be replaced.
6. If the sensor responds to the tool but the code persists, inspect the wiring and antenna connections for the RCDLR in the right rear quarter panel area.
7. If the RCDLR is suspected, confirm with a professional scan tool that can check the module's status before ordering a replacement. The module requires programming after installation.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor (OEM #13598771 (2nd Gen), 20925924 (1st/2nd Gen)) — This is the most common fix when C0750 appears alone. The sensor's internal battery dies, or the unit fails. Part numbers vary; always confirm with VIN.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, Schrader, Dorman, Bosch
  OEM price range: $60-$100
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$60
• Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) (OEM #20803735 (1st Gen, supersedes multiple older numbers), 20863945 (2nd Gen)) — This is the likely fix if multiple TPMS codes are set and/or the key fobs are not working. This part requires programming after installation. It is located behind the passenger side C-pillar trim.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, GM Genuine
  OEM price range: $80-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$90

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• C0755, C0760, C0765 — These are the codes for the other three tire pressure sensors. When all four appear together, it strongly points to a failure of the central receiver (RCDLR) rather than four individual sensors failing at once.
• B3055, B3060, B3935 — These are security and key-related codes. Their presence alongside C0750 reinforces the diagnosis of a broader electrical issue, often related to the RCDLR or BCM, as mentioned in TSB PIC5650M.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• PIC5650M: Addresses intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on, potentially related to DTCs including C0750.
• 16-NA-396: Describes intermittent operation of key fobs and TPMS system, with codes C0750, C0755, C0760, and C0765, caused by an internal failure of the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR).
• 16-NA-061: Details how a disconnected RCDLR antenna can cause TPMS codes, dashes on the DIC, and poor key fob range.
• PI1085A: Recommends replacing the RCDLR on 2012-2013 models for poor remote range or TPMS issues.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A known issue, documented in TSB 16-NA-396, involves the RCDLR failing and causing simultaneous loss of TPMS and key fob functionality.
• TSB PIC5650M links this code to intermittent no-crank or start-stall conditions accompanied by the security light, pointing towards a system-wide communication issue originating from a faulty module like the RCDLR.
• TSB 16-NA-061 suggests that before replacing the RCDLR, technicians should check for a disconnected antenna coax cable, which can produce identical symptoms.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• TPMS Sensor Transmission Frequency — expected: 315 MHz. Failure: No transmission or off-frequency transmission when activated with a TPMS tool.
• Vehicle Speed for Sensor 'Drive Mode' Activation — expected: Greater than 25 MPH (40 km/h). Failure: If a sensor's status does not change from 'Wake' to 'Drive' above this speed (viewable on a scan tool), the sensor's internal roll switch is likely faulty.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• C0750 :03: Left Front Tire Pressure Sensor Low Voltage. This indicates a potential issue with the sensor's battery or internal electronics causing a low voltage condition. (see via Professional scan tool like a GM Tech2 or GDS2 that can read symptom bytes (also called failure types).)
• C0750 :29: Left Front Tire Pressure Sensor Too Few Pulses. This is a critical symptom byte. It means the RCDLR is not receiving the expected number of data packets. TSB 16-NA-396 specifically calls this out as the symptom for a failing RCDLR when seen with all four tire codes (C0750, C0755, C0760, C0765). (see via Professional scan tool like a GM Tech2 or GDS2.)
• C0750 :39: Left Front Tire Pressure Sensor Internal Malfunction. This points directly to a failure within the sensor itself, such as a faulty pressure transducer or logic board. (see via Professional scan tool like a GM Tech2 or GDS2.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GDS2 / Tech2: Tire Pressure Sensor Learn — This function is required after replacing a TPMS sensor or the RCDLR module. It forces the vehicle to learn the unique ID and position of each sensor.
• GDS2 / Tech2: Observe Data: 'Pressure Sensor Mode' — When diagnosing a sensor that won't report, monitor this parameter while driving above 25 MPH. If it doesn't switch from 'Wake' or 'Park' to 'Drive', the sensor's internal roll switch is bad and the sensor needs replacement.
• GDS2 / Tech2: Module Setup: 'Remote Control Door Lock Receiver' — This is a mandatory step after installing a new RCDLR. The new module must be configured and programmed to the vehicle's specific options and security settings to function correctly.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• RCDLR (1st Gen) — On the right 'C' pillar, behind the trim panel between the rear passenger window and the small rear quarter window.. This is the physical location of the receiver module. A loose antenna or power connection here is the root cause of many C0750 issues on 2007-2009 models.
• RCDLR Antenna Coax Cable — Runs from the RCDLR module to the antenna amplifier and then to the antenna in the right rear glass. There are three connection points to check for looseness.. A disconnected coax cable at any of its three connection points can cause symptoms identical to a failed RCDLR, leading to misdiagnosis.
• G311 (1st Gen) — Under the right front seat.. This is a major body ground point. While not exclusively for the RCDLR, corrosion or looseness at this ground can cause a variety of difficult-to-diagnose electrical issues in the right side of the vehicle.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user in r/Chevrolet (2008 Equinox (1st Gen)) — Key fob only worked when right up against the driver's side of the car. Remote start would not work from a distance. All TPMS sensors were not reporting, causing a flashing 'Service Tire Pressure Monitoring System' message.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Scouring internet and repair manuals for the RCDLR location., Calling dealerships, who were unable to provide the location for the 1st Gen model.
  ✅ What actually fixed it After locating the RCDLR on the right C-pillar, the owner discovered the antenna was simply unplugged from the module. Plugging the antenna back in immediately restored full key fob range and allowed the TPMS sensors to be programmed and function correctly. It was a 5-minute fix once the module was accessed.
• Chevy Equinox Forum user (2007 Equinox) — Vehicle would not enter the TPMS relearn mode via the DIC. Pressing the 'check' button to initiate the learn process did nothing.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Attempting to use the DIC to enter relearn mode., Using a scan tool to initiate the relearn, which also failed.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner replaced the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) module. After replacement, the TPMS and keyless entry systems worked correctly, and they were able to successfully program a new key fob.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 15287331, 15782376, 15807816, 15857831, 15946938, 25771044, 25808837, 25852909, 25855007, 25896497, 92201608 → 20803735 — Part consolidation and revision over the life of the platform.
  Heads up: This is the RCDLR for 1st Gen (2007-2009) Equinox models. It is not compatible with 2nd Gen vehicles.
• 20818271 → 20863945 — Part revision for 2nd Generation vehicles.
  Heads up: This is the RCDLR for 2nd Gen (2010-2014) Equinox models. It is not compatible with 1st Gen vehicles.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2007-2009 (1st Generation): The RCDLR is a distinct module located in the right rear C-pillar. Diagnosis often involves physically inspecting the module and its antenna connection. The primary replacement part is PN 20803735.
• 2010-2014 (2nd Generation): The TPMS and keyless entry functions are more tightly integrated with the Body Control Module (BCM), though the RCDLR still acts as the radio frequency receiver. The replacement RCDLR part is PN 20863945. TSBs for these years often point to replacing the RCDLR for these symptoms.