C0765 on 2013-2020 Buick Encore: Right Rear TPMS Fault Causes & Fixes

What's Unique About the 2013-2020 Buick ENCORE

While a bad TPMS sensor is a common issue on most vehicles, on many GM platforms including the Encore, the TPMS sensors communicate through the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR). This is the same module that receives signals from your key fob. A failing RCDLR can cause both TPMS codes, like C0765, and key fob problems to appear simultaneously. This is a well-documented issue, and GM has issued technical service bulletins about it for various models, including TSB 16-NA-396, which specifically links TPMS codes with key fob failures to the RCDLR.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Symptoms You May Notice

• TPMS warning light is illuminated or flashing on the dashboard.
• "Service Tire Monitor System" message on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
• Key fob functions (lock/unlock, remote start) may not work intermittently or at all.
• "No Remote Detected" message o 🎬 Watch: How to start your vehicle with a dead key fob.n the DIC.
• In rare cases, as noted in TSB PIC5650M, it can be associated with a no-start or start-and-stall condition with the security light on.

Most Likely Causes

1. Dead TPMS Sensor Battery 🔴 High Probability → Shop Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor TPMS sensors use non-replaceable internal batteries that have a finite lifespan, typically lasting 5-10 years. Vehicles in this year range are reaching the end of the original sensors' life expectancy.
   How to confirm: Use a TPMS activation tool to attempt to read the sensor's data. If the tool cannot get a reading from the right rear sensor but can from others, the sensor has failed. This is the most likely cause if key fob functions are normal. A GM-specific scan tool may show a symptom code :03 (Low Voltage).
   Typical fix: Replace the right rear TPMS sensor and perform a TPMS relearn procedure. 🎬 See this walkthrough on how to relearn your TPMS sensors. It is often recommended to replace all four sensors at the same time if they are original, as the others are likely near failure as well.
   Est. part cost: $30-$70
2. Failed Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Keyless Entry Receiver This module is known to fail on many GM platforms of this era. It handles signals for both the TPMS and key fobs, so its failure affects both systems. TSB 16-NA-396 was issued specifically to address this internal failure.
   How to confirm: The most telling symptom is the simultaneous failure of key fob functions and the appearance of TPMS codes. A professional scan tool may show C0765 with a specific symptom code like '29: Too Few Pulses', which strongly points to the RCDLR as the culprit per TSB 16-NA-396.
   Typical fix: Replace the RCDLR module. The new module must be programmed to the vehicle using dealer-level software (e.g., GDS2). The RCDLR is typically located in the rear of the vehicle, behind the upper rear trim panel on the driver's side.
   Est. part cost: $40-$80
3. Damaged TPMS Sensor ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor Sensors can be physically damaged during tire installation or by hitting a large pothole or road debris.
   How to confirm: Visual inspection after dismounting the tire. If the code appeared immediately after a tire service, damage during service is a likely cause. A GM-specific scan tool may show a symptom code :39 (Internal Malfunction).
   Typical fix: Replace the damaged TPMS sensor and perform a relearn procedure.
   Est. part cost: $30-$70

Rare But Worth Checking

• Body Control Module (BCM) Issue: → Shop Body Control Module While rare, the BCM is the central computer that processes the TPMS data from the RCDLR. If both the sensors and RCDLR are confirmed good, the BCM could be the source of the problem. This is more likely if other unrelated electrical issues are present.
• Wiring Harness Damage: Damage or a poor connection in the wiring for the RCDLR or its antenna could interrupt communication, leading to the code. TSB 16-NA-061 discusses how a disconnected RCDLR antenna can cause TPMS codes and poor key fob range. This is unlikely unless other electrical issues are present. In some GM vehicles, the power wire to the RCDLR can corrode and break under the driver's door sill plate.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Verify the code with a professional OBD-II scanner capable of reading Chassis (C) codes. Check for symptom codes like '03', '29', or '39' which point to the sensor battery, RCDLR, or internal sensor failure, respectively.
2. Check the function of all key fobs. Do they lock/unlock the doors consistently? If not, suspect the RCDLR module.
3. Use a TPMS activation tool to test each tire pressure sensor, starting with the right rear. Note if it fails to respond.
4. If the sensor fails to respond and the key fobs work correctly, the sensor itself has likely failed (e.g., dead battery). The tire must be dismounted to replace it.
5. If multiple TPMS sensors are not responding and/or the key fobs are inoperative, the RCDLR module is the most likely cause.
6. Inspect the RCDLR antenna connection. Per TSB 16-NA-061, a loose coax cable at the module or antenna can cause these symptoms.
7. If the sensor responds but the code persists, attempt a TPMS relearn procedure as outlined in the owner's manual or service information.
8. After replacing any parts (sensor or RCDLR), perform the necessary programming and relearn procedures. RCDLR replacement requires programming with a GM-specific tool like GDS2.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor (OEM #13540601) — This is the most common failure point, usually due to the internal battery dying after 5-10 years of service. This is the likely culprit if key fobs work normally.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, Schrader, Continental/VDO, Dorman, Standard Motor Products
  OEM price range: $40-$70
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$50
• Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) (OEM #13597910) — A common failure on GM vehicles that causes TPMS codes and key fob issues simultaneously. This part number supersedes older versions 13510984 and 13583332.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, GM Genuine
  OEM price range: $40-$80
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$60

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• C0750 — Indicates a fault with the Left Front TPMS sensor. Often appears with other TPMS codes if there is a systemic issue like a failing RCDLR.
• C0755 — Indicates a fault with the Right Front TPMS sensor. Often appears with other TPMS codes if there is a systemic issue like a failing RCDLR.
• C0760 — Indicates a fault with the Left Rear TPMS sensor. Often appears with other TPMS codes if there is a systemic issue like a failing RCDLR.
• B3055, B3060, B3935 — These are security and key-related codes that may appear alongside C0765, as noted in TSB PIC5650M, pointing to a broader electrical or module communication issue.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• PIC5650M: Mentions C0765 in a list of DTCs that can occur with a no start or start/stall condition and the security light on.
• 16-NA-396: Addresses intermittent key fob operation and TPMS codes (including 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 and poor key fob range, which can mimic a failed RCDLR module.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Per TSB PIC5650M, code C0765 can be part of a complex issue involving the vehicle's security system, potentially leading to no-start or stalling conditions.
• Per TSB 16-NA-396, a faulty RCDLR is a known cause for C0765 (and other TPMS codes) when accompanied by a symptom code '29' and/or intermittent key fob operation.
• Per TSB 16-NA-061, similar symptoms can be caused by a poor or disconnected antenna connection for the RCDLR, which should be checked before replacing the module itself.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• C0765 :03: Indicates the battery within the TPMS sensor is failing or low. (see via GM-specific scan tool (e.g., Tech 2, GDS2) in the RCDLR data list.)
• C0765 :08: Indicates the sensor is sending an invalid signal. This can be due to internal sensor failure or external RF interference. (see via GM-specific scan tool (e.g., Tech 2, GDS2).)
• C0765 :29: Too Few Pulses. This specifically indicates the RCDLR is not receiving the expected number of transmissions from the sensor. TSB 16-NA-396 identifies this as a primary indicator of internal RCDLR failure. (see via GM-specific scan tool (e.g., Tech 2, GDS2).)
• C0765 :39: Internal Malfunction. This symptom code points directly to a hardware failure within the TPMS sensor itself. (see via GM-specific scan tool (e.g., Tech 2, GDS2).)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GDS2 / Techline Connect (SPS2): Remote Control Door Lock Receiver Programming/Setup — This function is mandatory after replacing the RCDLR module. It programs the new module to the vehicle's BCM and immobilizer system. Failure to perform this step will result in a no-start condition and inoperative key fobs.
• GDS2 or TPMS Activation Tool (e.g., EL-50448): TPMS Learn Mode — This is required after replacing a TPMS sensor, rotating tires, or replacing the RCDLR to teach the vehicle the new sensor IDs and their positions on the car.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• A18 RCDLR (Remote Control Door Lock Receiver) — Located behind the left rear quarter trim panel in the cargo area.. This is the module that receives the signal from the right rear TPMS sensor. All signals for TPMS and key fobs are processed here. A failure of the module, its power, ground, or antenna connection will cause this code.
• G303 — Located on the floor pan, behind the left rear quarter trim panel, near the RCDLR.. This is the primary ground connection for the RCDLR. A loose or corroded ground at this point can cause intermittent RCDLR operation, leading to TPMS codes and key fob issues.
• RCDLR Connector X1, Pin 7 (BK) — At the RCDLR module connector.. This is the ground circuit pin for the RCDLR. A voltage drop test should be performed here if a bad ground is suspected. A reading of more than a few millivolts indicates a poor ground connection at G303 or a wiring issue.
• RCDLR Connector X1, Pin 8 (RD/VT) — At the RCDLR module connector.. This is the battery positive voltage circuit pin for the RCDLR. It should have constant battery voltage. Lack of voltage here indicates a blown fuse or a break in the power wire, which can occur under the driver's door sill plate.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• HR Repair YouTube Channel (2011 Chevrolet Silverado (similar GM architecture)) — Key fobs were inoperative and the scan tool showed 'No Communication' with the RCDLR module.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initially diagnosing the RCDLR module itself as faulty and ordering a replacement.
  ✅ What actually fixed it A diagnostic check found no 12V power at the RCDLR connector. The technician traced the wiring and found a broken and corroded power wire for the RCDLR located in the harness under the driver's side door sill plate. Repairing the wire restored power and fixed the issue without needing to replace the module.
• Chevy HHR Network forum (Chevrolet HHR (demonstrates a common GM programming issue)) — Gradually weakening remote start and door lock function, along with TPMS warnings.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing key fob batteries.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The final diagnosis was a failed RCDLR. The story highlights a critical part of the repair: the dealership refused to install and program an aftermarket RCDLR. The owner had to use a genuine GM part for the dealer to perform the mandatory programming, emphasizing that programming capability is essential for this repair.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 13583332, 13510984 → 13597910 — Internal design improvements to address reliability issues that caused TPMS and key fob failures.
  Heads up: While physically interchangeable, the new part number (13597910) is the required service replacement. All versions require programming to the vehicle via GDS2/SPS2 after installation.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2013-2016: These pre-facelift models have a distinct interior and instrument cluster. The TPMS/RCDLR functions are fundamentally the same as later models, but they are more likely to have the older, less reliable RCDLR part numbers from the factory.
• 2017-2020: The 2017 model year introduced a facelift with a revised interior, dashboard, and infotainment system. While the TPMS system still operates on 315 MHz and uses the same RCDLR, these models may have come with the updated RCDLR part number (13597910) from the factory. The procedure for placing the vehicle in 'learn mode' via the Driver Information Center (DIC) may have slightly different menu navigation steps than pre-facelift models.