Experiencing tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) problems with your 2008 Pontiac G6? It’s a common frustration when you notice dashes instead of tire pressure readings on your Driver Information Center (DIC). If you’re facing this issue, especially after a dead battery or disconnecting power, you’re not alone. The good news is, while it might seem like a major problem, the fix is usually straightforward and doesn’t necessarily involve your key fob.
Understanding the 2008 Pontiac G6 TPMS Issue
For owners of the 2008 Pontiac G6, as well as similar GM models like the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky of the same year, encountering dashes on the TPMS display is a known issue. Instead of showing your tire pressure, the display stubbornly shows “–” for all tires. This typically indicates a malfunction in the system’s ability to read the tire pressure sensors. You might also notice that your key fobs become unresponsive at the same time.
This problem isn’t due to faulty TPMS sensors themselves in many cases. Instead, it stems from a specific software quirk in the 2008 models.
The Root Cause: Software Glitch
General Motors (GM) identified a “soft” software calibration in the Radio Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) module for the 2008 Pontiac G6, Solstice, and Sky. This particular software version is susceptible to memory loss if the vehicle experiences a low voltage condition. This can happen when:
- Your car battery dies and needs to be replaced or jump-started.
- You disconnect the car battery for maintenance or repairs.
When the RCDLR loses power, it can lose its programming, including the data needed to communicate with the TPMS sensors and the key fobs. This results in the dreaded dashes on your display and potentially inoperative key fobs. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like C0775, C0569, and B3105 might also be set in the RCDLR module, further confirming this issue. Attempting to relearn the TPMS sensors by adding or releasing tire pressure will also likely fail under these circumstances.
The Solution: Dealer Reprogramming (TSB 08-03-16-001B)
Fortunately, GM has addressed this problem with a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #08-03-16-001B. The solution involves reprogramming the RCDLR module with an updated software calibration. This updated software is a “hard set,” meaning it’s not susceptible to the same memory loss issues caused by voltage fluctuations.
The recommended fix is to visit your local GM dealer (Chevrolet, Pontiac, or Saturn if still available, or a Buick or GMC dealer as they are part of GM). Dealership technicians have the specialized equipment, specifically the Tech 2® scan tool with the latest software, and access to the TIS2WEB system needed to perform this reprogramming.
Key points about the dealer reprogramming process:
- TSB Reference: Inform your service advisor about TSB #08-03-16-001B to ensure they are aware of the specific fix for this known 2008 model year issue.
- RCDLR Reprogramming: The technician will use the Service Programming System (SPS) via TIS2WEB to reflash the RCDLR module with the updated calibration.
- Communication Error: In rare cases, the Tech 2® might have trouble communicating with the RCDLR. The TSB provides guidance for this scenario, advising technicians to use the “Pass-Thru Only” option in SPS and select “Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (TSB 08-03-16-001) with E4399 error.”
What to Expect After Reprogramming
Once the dealer has reprogrammed your RCDLR, your TPMS should function correctly again, and the dashes should be replaced with accurate tire pressure readings. However, the TSB also outlines some additional steps that may be necessary after the reprogramming:
- Relearn Keyless Entry Transmitters: You might need to relearn your key fobs to the vehicle. Your dealer can perform this procedure.
- Reconfigure Tire Pressure Placards and Tire Type: The technician may need to reconfigure these settings in the system.
- Relearn Tire Pressure Sensors: It’s also crucial to relearn the tire pressure sensors to the newly programmed RCDLR. This ensures the system correctly identifies and reads each sensor.
Your GM service technician will be able to perform all these necessary steps to ensure your TPMS and key fob systems are fully functional after the RCDLR reprogramming.
Conclusion
If you own a 2008 Pontiac G6 and are seeing dashes for your tire pressure readings, don’t panic. It’s a known software issue that can be easily resolved by a dealer reprogramming your RCDLR module. While “2008 Pontiac G6 Tpms Reset Without Key Fob” might be your search term, the ultimate solution involves a trip to the dealership for a software update. This will not only fix your TPMS display but also ensure the long-term reliability of your system by preventing the issue from recurring. Contact your local GM dealer and mention TSB #08-03-16-001B to get your 2008 Pontiac G6 TPMS back in working order.
