Control module issues? Car is dead/in Blackout. Help!
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 102
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From: Temecula CA
Control module issues? Car is dead/in Blackout. Help!
I purchased a 2005 base with the Z51 package on it with 29,000 miles. Car is a manual. The car is like new and is bone stock. I purchased this car from a private party. I went to look at the car and went for a test drive. Everything working fine. I went back the next day and picked it up and drove it home. Everything working fine. On the 2nd day of ownership my fob was not being recognized. I went through the process and re-linked fob #1 and fob #2. Then a day later - The car is DEAD. No display on the drivers information center. Nothing is functioning and my steering wheel is locked.
I had the car taken on a flat bed to my trusted local shop. We decided to replace the Keyless Entry Module (RCDLR) in the dash. Plugged in the new module and had a programmer there to link it to the car. Nothing!!! Car is still in dead mode with nothing?
I know this is a common issue with the C6. I am looking for any direction or input on how I should proceed now? How do I diagnose from here? Everything on this car looks like new. I do not believe that it would be a bad or damaged wire.
I had the car taken on a flat bed to my trusted local shop. We decided to replace the Keyless Entry Module (RCDLR) in the dash. Plugged in the new module and had a programmer there to link it to the car. Nothing!!! Car is still in dead mode with nothing?
I know this is a common issue with the C6. I am looking for any direction or input on how I should proceed now? How do I diagnose from here? Everything on this car looks like new. I do not believe that it would be a bad or damaged wire.
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,621
Likes: 4,069
From: Cape Coral, Florida
If your shop can't communicate with the new RCDLR via their scan tool you ALWAYS check the modules POWERS and GROUNDS FIRST!!...this is auto diagnostics 101...they may have changed it for nothing !!...they should also be checking for "U" or communication trouble codes...doubtful you will be able to diagnose this yourself if your shop can't...these shops only know how to replace parts which you've seen.
Last edited by C5 Diag; Jan 7, 2026 at 03:52 PM.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 102
Likes: 2
From: Temecula CA
Thank you for your reply. My mechanic has a programmer that he has used for Corvettes and the key fob issues in the past. That is who he had in there plugging into the system. I will ask and double check about the grounds. I can't believe that he wouldn't have checked that but you never know.
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,621
Likes: 4,069
From: Cape Coral, Florida
Thank you for your reply. My mechanic has a programmer that he has used for Corvettes and the key fob issues in the past. That is who he had in there plugging into the system. I will ask and double check about the grounds. I can't believe that he wouldn't have checked that but you never know.
Most of these shop "mechanics" are just hacks and clueless regarding diagnostics...sorry but that is what I've seen over the last 20 years...find someone who knows what they are doing !!
