Powertrain, generic · Transmission

P0885 TCM Power Relay Control Circuit/Open

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Some gearboxes draw their power through a relay, such as the transmission control relay in Chrysler's fuse box that feeds the solenoids. P0885 to P0887 cover the coil control of that relay, P0888 to P0892 its sense line, which reads back the switched output and compares it with the command. A dead relay leaves all solenoids without power, so the gearbox drops into its hydraulic emergency gear. P0885 means the coil circuit is open; the module checks its relay driver output at key-on. Ford lists it in its powertrain code list with or without MIL depending on vehicle; on FCA's 948TE nine-speed in the 2015 Cherokee and Chrysler 200 it was cured with a gearbox module reflash.

Likely causes

Relay faulty (coil open) or missing
Wire between relay and module open, connector or fuse box contact
Fuse of the relay coil blown
Module software (FCA 948TE reflash)

Symptoms

  • MIL on
  • Limp mode in a fixed gear, no shifting
  • Harsh engagement into D or R

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€20–400
Time0.3–2 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

transmission relayrelay wiringfusetransmission control module

Related codes

P0886P0887P0888P0890P0882

References: roushcleantech.com, static.nhtsa.gov, law.cornell.edu.