C0750 on 2015-2022 Chevrolet Equinox: TPMS Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2022 Chevrolet EQUINOX

On the Equinox, particularly the third generation (2018+), this code is not always a simple bad sensor. General Motors issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 16-NA-396) acknowledging that a faulty Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) can cause code C0750, often along with codes for all other sensors. This is because the RCDLR is the central module that processes signals from both the TPMS sensors and your key fobs. Therefore, owners may experience complete key fob and passive entry malfunctions simultaneously with the TPMS warning light, pointing towards the RCDLR as the root cause rather than the sensor itself. The TSB specifically calls out 2018 Equinox models built before April 14, 2017, as being prone to this internal RCDLR failure.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Generation note: This range covers two Equinox generations: the second (2015-2017) and the third (2018-2022). While a bad sensor is common on both, a faulty Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) is a documented issue specifically for the 2018 model year and is a known cause for this code on the third generation. A separate TSB for 2015 models (PIC5650M) links C0750 to intermittent no-start conditions, suggesting a different potential electrical fault path on second-generation vehicles.

Symptoms You May Notice

• TPMS warning light is on or flashing
• "Service Tire Monitor System" message on the Driver Information Center (DIC)
• Tire pressure reading for the left front tire shows dashes (--) on the DIC
• Key fob has poor range or is completely inoperative (if RCDLR is the cause)
• "No Remote Detected" message (if RCDLR is the cause)
• Push button start system fails to respond without placing the fob in the designated backup slot
• Passive entry system (door handle buttons) inoperative

Most Likely Causes

1. Dead or Failing TPMS Sensor Battery 🔴 High Probability TPMS sensor batteries have a finite lifespan of 5-10 years. Vehicles in the 2015-2017 model years are at a high probability of experiencing this natural failure.
   How to confirm: Use a TPMS diagnostic tool to attempt to activate the sensor. If the tool cannot get a reading (ID, pressure, temperature), the sensor is not transmitting, likely due to a dead battery. A professional scan tool may show a sub-code like C0750 03 (Low Voltage).
   Typical fix: Replace the left front TPMS sensor. The tire must be unseated from the wheel to access it. 🎬 Watch: How to install a new sensor and perform a relearn. A TPMS relearn procedure is required after replacement.
   Est. part cost: $30-$60
2. Faulty Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) 🟡 Medium Probability A known issue, especially on 2018 models, as documented in GM Technical Service Bulletin 16-NA-396. The RCDLR module can internally fail, ceasing to process signals for both TPMS and key fobs.
   How to confirm: This is the likely cause if you have multiple TPMS codes (e.g., C0750, C0755, C0760, C0765) and/or your key fobs are working intermittently or not at all. A scan tool may also show no communication with the RCDLR or display the code with a symptom byte of :29 (Too Few Pulses).
   Typical fix: Replace the RCDLR module. This part is located behind the rear interior trim panels and requires programming by a dealer or a properly equipped independent shop using GM's Service Programming System (SPS).
   Est. part cost: $80-$150
3. Damaged or Faulty TPMS Sensor ⚪ Low Probability Sensors can be damaged during tire changes or by road impacts. Aftermarket wheels can also sometimes cause interference or be incompatible.
   How to confirm: A visual inspection after dismounting the tire may reveal physical damage. A TPMS tool will fail to get a reading from the sensor. A professional scan tool may show a sub-code like C0750 39 (Internal Malfunction).
   Typical fix: Replace the left front TPMS sensor and perform the relearn procedure.
   Est. part cost: $30-$60

Rare But Worth Checking

• RCDLR Antenna Connection Issue: According to TSB 16-NA-061, a loose or disconnected coaxial cable at the RCDLR module, its antenna amplifier, or the antenna itself (often in the rear glass) can mimic a failed module. A disconnect closest to the RCDLR will cause the most severe symptoms (all sensors and fobs fail), while a disconnect at the antenna may only cause reduced range. It's worth inspecting these connections before replacing the RCDLR. A real-world repair on a similar platform found the antenna was simply unplugged at the module, and reconnecting it fixed all TPMS and key fob issues.
• Electrical Interference: Rarely, strong RF interference from aftermarket devices like cell phone chargers, dash cams, or power inverters can disrupt the signal between the TPMS sensors and the RCDLR, causing intermittent codes. Try unplugging all aftermarket electronics to see if the issue resolves.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for other DTCs. If codes for multiple TPMS sensors (C0755, C0760, C0765) are present, or if key fob-related codes are stored, suspect the RCDLR.
2. Test Key Fob Function. Check lock, unlock, and remote start functions. If they are inoperative or have very poor range, the RCDLR is the likely culprit.
3. Use a TPMS diagnostic tool to attempt to read data from all four tire sensors. Note the ID, pressure, and battery status for each.
4. If the left front sensor does not respond to the tool, it has most likely failed. The internal battery is the primary suspect.
5. If the left front sensor *does* respond but the code persists, or if you have key fob issues, the problem is with the RCDLR or its wiring/antenna.
6. Inspect the RCDLR and its antenna. The RCDLR is typically located behind the passenger side rear quarter panel (C-pillar) trim. 🎬 See this video for the RCDLR receiver location and removal. Inspect the coaxial antenna cable for secure connections at the module, antenna amplifier, and antenna itself as per TSB 16-NA-061.
7. If the sensor is bad, replace it. This requires breaking the bead of the tire.
8. If the RCDLR is confirmed to be faulty, it must be replaced. This part requires programming by a dealer or a properly equipped independent shop using GM's Service Programming System (SPS).
9. After replacing a sensor or the RCDLR, perform the TPMS relearn procedure. This can be initiated via the Driver Information Center (DIC) menu. Once in learn mode, the horn will chirp. Go to each tire in sequence (LF, RF, RR, LR) and either use a TPMS activation tool or deflate the tire until the horn chirps for each one. A double chirp at the end confirms success.
🎬 Watch: Quick walkthrough of the 2018+ Equinox TPMS reset procedure.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor (OEM #13598771) — This is the most frequent failure point. The internal battery dies, causing a loss of signal and triggering code C0750.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, Schrader, Continental/VDO
  OEM price range: $45-$70
  Aftermarket price range: $25-$50
• Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) (OEM #13540045 (Note: This part supersedes 13595511 and 13509518)) — A documented cause of C0750 on this platform, especially when accompanied by key fob issues or multiple TPMS codes.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco (GM Genuine)
  OEM price range: $80-$150
  Aftermarket price range: Not commonly available

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• C0755 — Right Front TPMS sensor fault. When seen with C0750 and other TPMS codes, it strongly suggests a common receiver problem (RCDLR) rather than multiple simultaneous sensor failures.
• C0760 — Left Rear TPMS sensor fault. Same as above, points to a central RCDLR issue.
• C0765 — Right Rear TPMS sensor fault. Same as above, points to a central RCDLR issue.
• B3055 — Key-related code. Its presence alongside C0750 on a 2015 model could indicate a broader security or BCM issue as noted in TSB PIC5650M.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 16-NA-396: Intermittent Operation of Key Fobs, Door Unlock Inoperative “No Remote Detected” Message with Possible TPM MIL. Points to a faulty RCDLR as the cause for C0750.
• PIC5650M: Intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with security light. Lists C0750 as a possible related code.
• 16-NA-061: Service Tire Monitor System/ Tire Pressures Display Dashes/ RKE Short Range/ No Fob Detected Message. Details antenna connection issues that can mimic a failed RCDLR.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• TSB 16-NA-396 documents an internal fault in the RCDLR on 2018 models (built before April 14, 2017) that causes C0750 and other TPMS codes, along with total key fob inoperability. The fix is to replace the RCDLR.
• TSB 16-NA-061 explains that a disconnected RCDLR antenna can cause identical symptoms and should be checked before replacing the module itself.
• TSB PIC5650M links C0750 on 2015 models to intermittent no-start conditions, pointing to a more complex electrical or security system fault.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• C0750 29: Too Few Pulses. This is a critical symptom code mentioned in TSB 16-NA-396 that strongly indicates the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) is not receiving the expected number of data packets from the TPMS sensor, pointing to a receiver-side problem. (see via GM GDS2 or a high-end professional scan tool capable of reading manufacturer-specific symptom bytes.)
• C0750 03: Low Voltage. This symptom code typically indicates that the TPMS sensor's internal battery is failing. (see via GM GDS2 or a high-end professional scan tool.)
• C0750 39: Internal Malfunction. This symptom code points to a fault within the TPMS sensor itself, separate from its battery. (see via GM GDS2 or a high-end professional scan tool.)
• C0750 08: Bus Signal / Message Failure. This indicates a data communication error on the vehicle's network, which could be related to the RCDLR, BCM, or wiring. (see via GM GDS2 or a high-end professional scan tool.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GM Service Programming System (SPS/SPS2): Replace and Program (for the RCDLR or BCM) — This function is mandatory after installing a new Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR). It flashes the module with the correct vehicle-specific firmware and VIN.
• GM Service Programming System (SPS/SPS2) or Tech2Win: IMMO Immobilizer Learn / Program Transponder or Remote Key — This function must be performed after programming a new RCDLR to teach the vehicle to recognize the existing key fobs. The process often involves deleting all old keys from memory first, then adding them back one by one.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• RCDLR Module — Behind the interior trim panel on the passenger side (right) rear C-pillar.. This is the physical location of the receiver module. Access is required to replace the module or to check its coaxial antenna connection, which can become disconnected and cause C0750 along with key fob failure.
• G103 — On the cowl at the left rear of the engine compartment, often near the brake booster.. On some GM platforms, this ground point serves the Remote Door Lock Receiver. A poor connection here could potentially cause intermittent RCDLR operation, leading to TPMS and key fob issues.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user in r/Chevrolet (2008 Chevrolet Equinox (First generation, but component architecture is similar)) — TPMS sensors were not reporting to the vehicle and the key fob had extremely low range, requiring it to be right against the car to work.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Scouring the internet for information, Calling the dealership for the part location
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner located the RCDLR module in the right-side C-pillar and discovered its antenna had been unplugged. Plugging the antenna back in resolved all TPMS and key fob range issues instantly.

"I Checked Everything" — The Actual Cause

• A common diagnostic pattern for this code is using a TPMS tool to verify that the sensor in the tire is transmitting a signal, yet code C0750 remains active in the vehicle's computer. This is the equivalent of a 'clean' test for the sensor itself. In these cases, the actual cause is almost always a problem on the vehicle's receiving end: a faulty RCDLR module, a disconnected RCDLR antenna cable, or a poor ground connection for the module, as outlined in TSB 16-NA-396 and TSB 16-NA-061.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• While replacing the TPMS sensor is the most common fix for a single C0750 code, a significant counter-narrative exists where the sensor is not the problem. If key fob malfunctions are present, blindly replacing the TPMS sensor will not fix the issue. The root cause is far more likely to be the central RCDLR module or its associated wiring/antenna. A real-world case confirmed this, where multiple TPMS and key fob issues were solved not by replacing any electronics, but by simply reconnecting an unplugged antenna at the RCDLR module, a fix that costs nothing in parts. This highlights the importance of diagnosing symptoms as a whole rather than focusing only on the trouble code's basic definition.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 13509518 → 13595511, then 13540045 — The original part was prone to internal failure as documented in TSB 16-NA-396. Subsequent part numbers are revised versions intended to correct the defect.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2015-2017 (Second Generation) vs. 2018-2022 (Third Generation): The 2018 model year marked a complete redesign with different engines, body, and interior technology. TSB 16-NA-396, which details the common RCDLR failure, specifically applies to early-build 2018 models. In contrast, TSB PIC5650M links C0750 to no-start conditions on the 2015 model, suggesting potentially different electrical failure modes between the two generations.