C0760 on 2007-2014 Chevrolet Impala: TPMS Fault Causes and Fixes
Code C0760 means the Left Rear Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor is not communicating with the car. The most common fix is replacing the sensor because its internal battery has died after 7-10 years. If your key fobs are also malfunctioning or have poor range, the problem is likely the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) module, a well-documented issue on this platform.
- C0760 points to a problem with the left rear TPMS sensor.
- The most likely cause is a dead battery in the sensor itself, especially on an older vehicle.
- If key fob problems (poor range, not working) occur at the same time, the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) is the primary suspect, not the sensor.
- Replacing the RCDLR requires professional programming.
- Always check for simple causes like Radio Frequency Interference from aftermarket chargers before replacing parts.
What's Unique About the 2007-2014 Chevrolet IMPALA
On this generation of Impala (and its W-body platform mates), the module that receives the TPMS signal (the RCDLR) also handles the key fobs and vehicle immobilizer system. A failure of this single module can cause a strange combination of symptoms: TPMS warnings (often for all four tires), key fobs not working or having severely reduced range, and in some cases, a no-start or stalling condition. [TSB PIC5650M, 28] This is a critical distinction, as a TPMS code might be the first sign of a failing RCDLR, not just a bad tire sensor. Multiple GM Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) have been issued for this exact problem.
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 Impala generations. The 2007-2013 models are the 9th generation (W-body). The 2014 model year includes both the 9th generation (sold as the 'Impala Limited' for fleets) and the new 10th generation. While the operating principle of the TPMS is the same, specific part numbers for sensors and modules may differ. The RCDLR failure is particularly well-documented on the 9th generation models. The Impala Limited uses a 315 MHz sensor frequency.
Symptoms You May Notice
- "SERVICE TIRE MONITOR" message on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
- The TPMS warning light is illuminated on the instrument cluster (may flash for one minute before staying on).
- The tire pressure display for the left rear tire shows dashes (--) instead of a number.
- Intermittent or non-functional key fobs (if the RCDLR is the cause).
- Severely reduced range for key fobs, requiring you to be very close to the car to lock/unlock (if the RCDLR is the cause).
- "No Remote Detected" message on the DIC (if the RCDLR is the cause).
- Vehicle may not start or may stall (rare, but possible if the RCDLR is the cause). [TSB PIC5650M]
- Replacing the Body Control Module (BCM) when the issue is actually the RCDLR. The RCDLR is a separate, less expensive module that communicates with the BCM.
- Replacing all four TPMS sensors when the simultaneous failure of all sensors and key fobs strongly indicates a problem with the shared receiver (RCDLR).
Most Likely Causes
- Failed Left Rear TPMS Sensor 🔴 High Probability TPMS sensors contain a non-replaceable battery with a finite lifespan, typically 7-10 years. Vehicles in this year range are at or beyond the end of that expected lifespan, making battery failure the most common reason for this code to appear by itself.
How to confirm: Use a TPMS activation tool to attempt to read the sensor. If the tool cannot get a response (no ID, pressure, or temperature reading), the sensor is dead. If C0760 is the only TPMS code present, the sensor is the most likely failure point.
Typical fix: Replace the left rear TPMS sensor and perform the TPMS relearn procedure.
Est. part cost: $25-$75 - Faulty Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) 🟡 Medium Probability This module is a known failure point on many GM platforms of this era, causing a loss of communication with both TPMS sensors and key fobs. Forum discussions are filled with owners experiencing simultaneous TPMS and key fob issues that were resolved by replacing the RCDLR.
How to confirm: If C0760 is present along with other TPMS codes (like C0750, C0755, C0765) and the key fobs are also working intermittently or not at all, the RCDLR is the most likely culprit. A scan tool can check for communication with the RCDLR itself. The module is typically located under the rear window trim or behind the driver's side C-pillar trim.
Typical fix: Replace the RCDLR module. This part requires programming by a dealer or qualified shop with a GM-specific scan tool.
Est. part cost: $50-$150 - Radio Frequency (RF) Interference ⚪ Low Probability
How to confirm: Check for any aftermarket electronic devices plugged into the car's power outlets (e.g., cheap phone chargers, dash cams, GPS units, aftermarket LED bulbs). Unplug them all and see if the code clears and the system operates normally. TSB PIC5650 specifically calls out RFI as a cause for these symptoms.
Typical fix: Remove or replace the interfering device.
Est. part cost: $0
Rare But Worth Checking
- Wiring/Connector Issue at RCDLR:
- Cold Solder Joint Inside RCDLR:
Diagnosis Steps
- Manually check the air pressure in all four tires to rule out an actual low-pressure situation.
- Check the function of your key fobs. Do they work correctly? Is the range significantly reduced? If so, suspect the RCDLR.
- Check for RF Interference. Unplug ALL aftermarket devices (phone chargers, dash cams, etc.) and re-test.
- Attempt the TPMS relearn procedure. On the Impala, this is typically done by putting the car in 'learn mode' via the Driver Information Center (DIC) buttons. 🎬 Watch: How to reset your TPMS light using the DIC. If the procedure won't start or times out, this can also point to an RCDLR issue.
- Use a TPMS activation tool to trigger the left rear sensor. If the tool gets no signal (no ID, pressure, or temp), the sensor is bad and needs replacement. This is the most likely cause if C0760 is the only code present.
- If the sensor transmits a signal but the car's horn doesn't chirp to confirm the learn, there is a receiver (RCDLR) or communication issue.
- If the RCDLR is suspected, locate it and inspect its wiring and connectors. On the 9th Gen Impala, it is generally located behind the trim near the rear window or C-pillar, sometimes under the defroster grill panel. Check for loose connections, especially the coaxial antenna cable, and check for power and ground at the connector.
- If the RCDLR is the confirmed culprit, it must be replaced and programmed by a professional with a GM-specific scan tool like a Tech 2 or GDS2.
Parts You'll Likely Need
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor
(OEM #13598773)— The internal battery in the original sensor fails after 7-10 years, making it the most common point of failure for this code. This part number has been superseded by newer numbers like 13540602.
Trusted brands: ACDelco, Schrader, Dorman, Continental
OEM price range: $50-$90
Aftermarket price range: $25-$50 - Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR)
(OEM #25974373)— This module is a known failure point. It processes signals for both the TPMS and key fobs, so its failure can trigger code C0760, often along with key fob issues. Note: Part numbers vary by year and options; confirm with VIN. This part number supersedes 25782061, 25824324, and 25920951.
Trusted brands: ACDelco (GM Genuine)
OEM price range: $50-$150
Aftermarket price range: N/A
Related Codes That Often Appear With This One
- C0750, C0755, 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 common receiver (the RCDLR) rather than all four sensors failing simultaneously.
- B3055, B3060 — These are vehicle security codes related to the key transponder. Their presence alongside C0760 is a strong indicator that the RCDLR is failing, as it is integral to the immobilizer system. [TSB PIC5650M]
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls
- PIC5650M: Notes that TPMS codes like C0760 can appear alongside security codes (B3055, B3060) during no-start or stall conditions, pointing towards a fault with the RCDLR or RF interference.
- 07-08-52-001B: A TSB specifically addressing inoperative RKE (key fob), poor range, and TPMS messages, instructing technicians to replace the RCDLR and sometimes an associated coax antenna.
- 16-NA-396: A later TSB covering many GM vehicles that confirms an internal RCDLR fault can cause intermittent loss of key fob functions along with TPMS codes C0750, C0755, C0760, and C0765.
- 16-NA-061: Details how a disconnected coaxial antenna cable at the RCDLR can cause TPMS and key fob issues, often affecting the sensors furthest from the module first.
Platform-Specific Known Issues
- Location of RCDLR: Owners and repair guides confirm the RCDLR on the 9th generation Impala is located behind the interior trim panel near the rear window, often on the driver's side C-pillar or under the rear package tray shelf. One service manual also indicates a location on the upper center of the instrument panel, under the defroster grill panel for the 2007 model.
- Owner Experience: A common story on forums is an owner first replacing a TPMS sensor with no success, only to later find that the simultaneous poor key fob range was the real clue pointing to the RCDLR.
Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values
- RCDLR Power Supply Voltage — expected: 9-16 volts. Failure: 0 volts indicates a blown fuse (check DSM 10A fuse in I/P fuse block) or an open in the power wire.
- RCDLR Ground Connection — expected: Near 0 volts when testing between the ground pin and a known good chassis ground.. Failure: Voltage reading above 0.1V indicates a poor ground connection.
Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking
- C0760 with Symptom Byte :29: The symptom code ":29" translates to "Too Few Pulses." This indicates the RCDLR is receiving a signal from the sensor, but the data packet is incomplete or corrupted. This points away from a completely dead sensor and towards a weak sensor battery, significant RF interference, or a fault within the RCDLR's receiving circuitry. (see via GM GDS2 (Global Diagnostic System 2) or equivalent professional scan tool.)
Scan Tool Commands That Help
- GM Tech 2 / GDS2: Module Setup > RCDLR Setup — This function is required after replacing the RCDLR module to integrate it with the vehicle's other systems, particularly the theft deterrent system.
- GM Tech 2 / GDS2: Program Key Fobs — Used after RCDLR replacement or when adding/removing key fobs. The tool provides options like "Invalidate All" or programming to the "Next Available Slot".
- GM GDS2: Control Functions (Bidirectional) — Allows a technician to command modules to perform actions, such as locking/unlocking doors, to verify if the module is capable of sending commands, helping to isolate the fault between the module, wiring, and actuator.
- GM Tech 2 / GDS2: Theft Deterrent System Relearn — After replacing and setting up a new RCDLR, a 10 or 30-minute theft relearn procedure must be performed to sync the new module with the vehicle's immobilizer.
Wiring & Ground Locations
- RCDLR Module — On 9th Gen Impalas, it is typically located behind the driver's side C-pillar trim panel or under the rear package shelf, accessible from the trunk. A service manual for 2007 also lists a location under the center of the instrument panel defroster grill.. This is the central receiver for both TPMS and key fob signals. Its location is critical for inspection of wiring, the antenna connection, and for replacement.
- RCDLR Coaxial Antenna — A coaxial cable runs from the RCDLR module to an antenna, which may be integrated into the rear window glass or have an associated amplifier module.. A loose or disconnected coaxial antenna is a known cause of poor signal reception, leading to TPMS codes (often for the tires furthest away) and reduced key fob range. TSB 16-NA-061 specifically details this issue.
- DSM Fuse (10A) — In the instrument panel (I/P) fuse block.. This fuse provides power to the RCDLR (sometimes labeled as the Driver Seat Module or DSM). A loss of communication with the RCDLR can be caused by this fuse being blown.
Real Owner Repair Stories
- CorvetteForum user (2005 Chevrolet Corvette (similar GM platform)) — "No fob detected" message, but the car would start if the dash was tapped. Intermittent RCDLR communication.
❌ Tried (didn't work) Repinning the connectors., Attempting to program a different, used RCDLR module (which failed because it was locked to another vehicle).
✅ What actually fixed it The owner removed the original RCDLR, opened the plastic case, and re-soldered the header pins where they connect to the circuit board. This fixed the cold solder joints that were causing the intermittent connection. - YouTube channel DanielJaegerFilms (Chevrolet vehicle (model not specified, but same RCDLR principle)) — "Service Tire Monitor System" message, unable to relearn front TPMS sensors, and key fobs not working from the front of the car but working when held close to the rear C-pillar.
❌ Tried (didn't work) Attempting the standard TPMS relearn procedure (only the rear tires would learn).
✅ What actually fixed it The combination of symptoms (only rear sensors learning, poor fob range except near the rear) correctly pointed to a faulty RCDLR. The diagnosis was confirmed by the fact that the receiver is located in the rear of the car, explaining why signals from the front were not being received. The fix was to replace the RCDLR.
OEM Part Supersession History
25782061, 25824324, 25920951→25974373— Standard part evolution and consolidation by the manufacturer.
Heads up: The replacement part 25974373 requires programming with a GM scan tool (Tech 2 or GDS2) after installation; it is not plug-and-play.
Model Year Variations Within This Range
- 2014: In 2014, Chevrolet sold two different Impalas: the all-new 10th generation model and the previous 9th generation model, which was re-badged as the "Impala Limited" and sold primarily to fleets. Parts like the RCDLR and TPMS sensors are not interchangeable between the two distinct models. The Impala Limited (9th gen) continues the systems from the 2007-2013 models.
- 2007: A service manual for the 2007 Impala notes the RCDLR could be located in the center of the dashboard under the defroster grill, a different location from the C-pillar/rear shelf location more commonly cited for later 9th generation models.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chevrolet IMPALA:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- What's Unique About the 2007-2014 Chevrolet IMPALA
- Diagnostic Flowchart
- Symptoms You May Notice
- Most Likely Causes
- Rare But Worth Checking
- Diagnosis Steps
- Parts You'll Likely Need
- Related Codes That Often Appear With This One
- Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls
- Platform-Specific Known Issues
- Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values
- Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking
- Scan Tool Commands That Help
- Wiring & Ground Locations
- Real Owner Repair Stories
- OEM Part Supersession History
- Model Year Variations Within This Range
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