P0885 code meaning
TCM Power Relay Control Circuit/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P0885 means
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.
P0885 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyEasy, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0885
- MIL on
- Limp mode in a fixed gear, no shifting
- Harsh engagement into D or R
Common causes of P0885
- Most likelyRelay faulty (coil open) or missing
- Most likelyWire between relay and module open, connector or fuse box contact
- PossibleFuse of the relay coil blown
- PossibleModule software (FCA 948TE reflash)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission relayRelay wiringFuseTransmission control module
What each part of P0885 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 8 | Area: transmission. |
| 85 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0885 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0885
What does P0885 mean?
P0885 means "TCM Power Relay Control Circuit/Open". Some gearboxes draw their power through a relay, such as the transmission control relay in Chrysler's fuse box that feeds the solenoids. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0885?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0885 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0885 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0885 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0885 to fix?
Difficulty: easy. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0885 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.