Is your 06 Impala Key Fob acting up? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many Chevy Impala owners face similar frustrations with their remote keyless entry systems. The good news is, with a bit of know-how and the right tools, you can often troubleshoot and even reprogram your key fob yourself. This guide dives deep into a real-world experience of getting a 2006 Impala key fob working again, offering insights and steps you can use to tackle your own key fob issues.
The Key Fob Saga Begins: Symptoms and Initial Steps
Like many car owners, the journey started with a simple annoyance: the key fob became unreliable. Sometimes it would work, sometimes it wouldn’t, leaving us guessing whether the doors would lock or unlock remotely. This intermittent behavior pointed to a potential issue beyond just a dead battery. While replacing the battery in your 06 Impala key fob is always the first step (and an easy fix if you’re lucky!), in this case, a new battery didn’t solve the problem.
The next logical step was to investigate the car’s remote keyless entry system itself. For the 06 Impala, this system relies on a Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) module and an antenna to communicate with the key fob. A malfunctioning antenna or RCDLR module can prevent your key fob signals from being received, leading to the issues we were experiencing.
Diving Deeper: Antenna and RCDLR Module Replacement
Research suggested that in many cases, problems with the 06 Impala key fob system could be traced back to a faulty antenna or RCDLR module. To address this, the decision was made to replace both components. A new antenna was purchased, and a used RCDLR module (part number 20803735) was sourced online. Opting for a used module can be a cost-effective way to repair your system, but it’s important to ensure the part is compatible with your vehicle.
With the replacement parts in hand, the next hurdle was programming the used RCDLR module to work with the 06 Impala and, crucially, to recognize the existing key fobs. This is where things can get a bit technical, requiring specialized tools and software.
Programming the 06 Impala Key Fob: Tech2 and TIS2000
To program the RCDLR module and key fobs, a GM Tech2 diagnostic tool was used, along with a CANdi (Controller Area Network diagnostic interface) module. The Tech2 is a powerful tool used by mechanics to diagnose and program GM vehicles, including the 06 Impala. A clone version of the Tech2 was utilized in this instance, making this type of repair more accessible to DIY enthusiasts.
The process involves “flashing” the RCDLR module, essentially rewriting its software to match the specific vehicle and recognize the key fobs. Initially, attempts were made to use TIS2000 software, a legacy GM diagnostic software suite, on an older Windows XP computer. However, a common challenge with used modules is software compatibility. The used module turned out to have a newer software version than what was available on the TIS2000 CD. TIS2000, designed to update modules, not downgrade them, refused to overwrite the newer code.
TIS-2-Web and Software Compatibility Challenges
To overcome the software version mismatch, the next step involved subscribing to TIS-2-Web, GM’s online service programming system. While this incurred a cost (around $40 for a single-vehicle subscription), it provided access to the latest software versions for the 06 Impala’s RCDLR module.
However, the software journey wasn’t smooth sailing. TIS-2-Web has its own set of system requirements. It mandates a specific, relatively recent version of Java, which clashed with the older Internet Explorer 6 browser on the XP machine. Modern browsers like Firefox were also incompatible with Java applets required by TIS-2-Web at the time. Finding a compatible combination of operating system, browser, and Java version became a troubleshooting task in itself.
Pass-Through Programming and Hardware Adaptations
Another hurdle encountered was the realization that TIS-2-Web only supports “pass-through” programming for the RCDLR module on the 06 Impala. This means a direct connection from the laptop to the car’s diagnostic port is necessary, unlike some older modules that could be programmed in a “remote” mode.
This pass-through requirement meant needing a laptop with a serial port to interface with the Tech2 tool. While older laptops with serial ports were available, they were often running outdated operating systems like XP, which had already proven problematic with software compatibility. The solution was to use a USB-to-RS232 converter to connect the Tech2 to a newer Windows 7 laptop. However, not all USB-to-serial converters work reliably with the Tech2. Research led to the “HXSP-2108D” converter as a recommended model for its compatibility.
Connection Errors and Troubleshooting: Pin 1 to the Rescue
With the software and hardware finally aligned, programming seemed imminent. The car was connected to the Tech2 via the CANdi module and the USB-to-serial converter linked the Tech2 to the laptop running TIS-2-Web. The programming process was initiated, but frustration struck again: “Unknown Communications Error” messages plagued the attempt.
Despite the communication errors, the key fobs could still be programmed to lock and unlock the doors with the new module. However, a persistent “Service Tire Pressure Monitoring System” message appeared on the driver’s information display, and the Tech2 intermittently reported communication issues with the RCDLR module or incorrect vehicle information.
Days of troubleshooting, interspersed with holiday commitments, eventually pinpointed the culprit: an intermittent connection on pin 1 of the vehicle’s ALDL (Assembly Line Diagnostic Link) connector. Pin 1 is part of the low-speed GMLAN (General Motors Local Area Network) bus, crucial for communication between modules in the car. Once this faulty pin connection was repaired, the communication errors vanished.
Successful Reprogramming and Resolution
With the connection issue resolved, reconnecting the laptop and car, and restarting TIS-2-Web, led to a smooth programming process. The software picked up where it had left off, and the RCDLR module flashing completed successfully. Confirmation of success came with flashing dash lights, sweeping gauges, and the disappearance of the error message on the driver’s display.
Was It Worth It? Cost and Satisfaction
While the process was undoubtedly complex and time-consuming, the outcome was a fully functional key fob system for the 06 Impala. The cost breakdown for this DIY repair was:
- Antenna: $60.00 (CAD)
- Used RCDLR Module: $44.00 (CAD)
- USB to Serial Converter: $17.00 (CAD)
- TIS-2-Web Subscription: $57.00 (CAD)
Total cost in Canadian dollars was approximately $178.00, or around $130 USD. Compared to the potential cost of an aftermarket system or dealership repair, and considering the satisfaction of DIY problem-solving, the effort was deemed worthwhile. Most importantly, a working key fob brought back convenience and peace of mind.
Key Takeaways for 06 Impala Key Fob Repair
This real-world experience highlights several key points for anyone tackling 06 Impala key fob issues:
- Start with the basics: Check the key fob battery first.
- Consider antenna and RCDLR module: These are common failure points in the 06 Impala keyless entry system.
- Programming is often necessary: Replacing the RCDLR module typically requires programming to match your vehicle and key fobs.
- Tech2 and TIS-2-Web are powerful tools: But they can come with software and hardware compatibility challenges.
- Troubleshooting is crucial: Be prepared to diagnose connection issues and software errors.
- DIY is achievable: With patience, research, and the right tools, you can successfully repair your 06 Impala key fob system yourself.
By understanding the process, potential pitfalls, and solutions outlined in this guide, you’ll be better equipped to restore the convenience of your 06 Impala key fob and get back to enjoying remote access to your vehicle.
