P0888 code meaning
TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P0888 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. P0888 is the general fault of the sense line, without telling low, high or range apart. No maker documents it on its own; Subaru uses the low variant P0890.
P0888 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 P0888
- MIL on
- Limp mode in a fixed gear, no shifting
- Harsh engagement into D or R
Common causes of P0888
- Most likelyRelay contacts burnt or corroded
- PossibleFuse in the load circuit
- PossibleWire between relay output and module
- Less likelyModule
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 P0888 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. |
| 88 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0888 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 P0888
What does P0888 mean?
P0888 means "TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit". 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 P0888?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0888 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0888 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0888 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 P0888 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 P0888 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.