P0885 on 2015 Chrysler 200: TCM Power Circuit Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2015 Chrysler 200

The 2015 Chrysler 200, the first year of its generation, is known for widespread issues with its ZF 9HP48 9-speed automatic transmission. For this specific model, code P0885 is frequently not a hardware failure. Chrysler issued several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) stating that this code, often with others, can be triggered by a software problem within the powertrain or transmission control module. In many cases, the official fix is a simple software reflash performed by a dealer. Additionally, this platform is subject to a recall for faulty wiring harness crimps that can cause a loss of power, directly relating to this code's circuit.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Harsh, erratic, or delayed shifting
• Transmission gets stuck in one gear (limp mode)
• Vehicle unexpectedly shifts into neutral
• Engine stalls, especially when coming to a stop or while driving
• Check Engine Light is illuminated
• "Service Transmission" message on the dashboard
• Vehicle will not move when placed in gear
🎬 Watch: Troubleshooting a Chrysler 200 that won't move in gear
• Reduced fuel economy

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated TCM/PCM Software 🔴 High Probability Multiple manufacturer TSBs (21-019-17 REV. A, 21-015-16, 21-021-15 REV-E) identify a software update as the specific fix for this code on the 2015 model year.
   How to confirm: A Chrysler dealer or a properly equipped independent shop must connect a diagnostic tool (like wiTECH) to check the current software version against the latest available from the manufacturer.
   Typical fix: Update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and/or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software to the latest version. This is a dealer-only or specialty shop repair.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Faulty TCM Power Relay 🟡 Medium Probability Relays are common failure points in automotive electrical systems. They are constantly switching and can wear out over time.
   How to confirm: Locate the relay in the under-hood fuse box (Power Distribution Center), often labeled 'Transmission Control'. Swap it with an identical relay from a non-critical system (like the horn) and see if the problem resolves. A multimeter can also be used to test the relay's function.
   Typical fix: Replace the TCM power relay. 🎬 See this guide on fixing the P0885 relay error code
   Est. part cost: $15-$40
3. Wiring or Connector Issue 🟡 Medium Probability NHTSA Recall 16V-529 (FCA #S55) was issued for 2015 models due to insufficiently crimped terminals in the transmission wire harness, which can cause intermittent high resistance and lead to a loss of propulsion.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness going to the TCM and the fuse/relay box for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and proper voltage at the TCM connector.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the faulty connector. The recall remedy involves a software update and, if fault codes are present, replacement of the transaxle range sensor wire harness.
   Est. part cost: $5-$100
4. Blown Fuse ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Locate the fuse for the TCM circuit in the owner's manual or on the fuse box diagram (often in the under-hood Power Distribution Center) and visually inspect it. Test with a multimeter for continuity.
   Typical fix: Replace the blown fuse. If it blows again, a short circuit exists that must be diagnosed.
   Est. part cost: $1-$5
5. Failed Transmission Control Module (TCM) ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: This is typically diagnosed by exclusion. If all software, relays, fuses, and wiring are confirmed to be good, the TCM itself is the likely culprit. The TCM is located on the transaxle, accessible after removing the driver's side front wheel.
   Typical fix: Replace the Transmission Control Module. The new module will require programming (proxy alignment) to the vehicle's VIN.
   Est. part cost: $280-$550

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Battery or Alternator: Low overall system voltage can cause various electronic modules to set power-related fault codes. It's a simple and important first check.
• Lost VIN Programming: In some instances, particularly after a battery has died and been replaced, the TCM can 'lose' its programming and communication with other modules. This can prevent the car from moving and set various communication codes. The fix is a 'proxy alignment' procedure performed with a high-level scan tool to re-synchronize the modules.
🎬 Watch: How to perform a budget-friendly proxy alignment

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to P0885 for your vehicle's VIN. The most likely fix is a software update.
2. Test the battery and charging system to ensure proper system voltage (typically 12.4V+ with engine off, 13.5V-14.5V with engine running).
3. Inspect the fuses related to the transmission control module in the under-hood Power Distribution Center. Replace if blown.
4. Locate the TCM power relay in the under-hood fuse box. It is often a standard 'ice cube' style relay. Swap it with a known-good, identical relay (e.g., from the horn circuit) to see if the symptoms change.
5. If the relay is not the issue, carefully inspect the wiring harness and connectors between the fuse box and the TCM for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose pins, paying close attention to the areas mentioned in recall 16V-529.
6. Using a multimeter, verify that battery voltage is present at the TCM power relay socket and at the power input pin on the TCM connector when the key is in the 'ON' position.
7. If a high-end scan tool is available, check for communication with the TCM and see if a 'proxy alignment' or VIN relearn procedure is needed, especially if the battery was recently replaced.
8. If all wiring, fuses, and relays are confirmed to be good and the software is up to date, the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is likely faulty and requires replacement and programming.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software Update — As per multiple TSBs, a software reflash is the most common and specific fix for this code on a 2015 Chrysler 200.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (Dealer Service)
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• TCM Power Relay (OEM #56046679AA (or equivalent multi-use relay)) — This is the most common hardware component to fail in the TCM's power supply circuit. It is a standard relay used in many Chrysler applications.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products
  OEM price range: $25-$50
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$30
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) (OEM #68294441AA (Mopar Remanufactured)) — If software and the external electrical circuit are good, the module itself has likely failed. Replacement requires programming.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Dorman (609-046)
  OEM price range: $380-$550
  Aftermarket price range: $280-$400

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0711 — Listed in the same TSBs as P0885, indicating a related software issue affecting the transmission temperature sensor circuit.
• P0975 — Also listed in the manufacturer TSBs alongside P0885, pointing to a software-related fault in the shift solenoid 'B' control circuit.
• P0887 — Frequently appears with P0885 as per the TSBs; it indicates the TCM Power Control Circuit is high, suggesting the module is seeing incorrect voltage.
• P0700 — This is a generic code indicating that the TCM has stored a fault code. It acts as a general alert that a more specific transmission code, like P0885, is present.
• U0100 — Indicates 'Lost Communication With ECM/PCM'. This can occur alongside P0885 if the power issue is severe enough to disrupt communication between modules.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-019-17 REV. A: Addresses P0885 and other codes, recommending a software update.
• 21-015-16: Also lists P0885 as a code that can be resolved with a software update.
• 21-021-15 REV. E: Connects P0885 to drivability issues and points to a software fix.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• The 2015 Chrysler 200 was subject to multiple TSBs (including #21-019-17 REV. A, #21-015-16, and #21-021-15 REV-E) that directly link P0885 to a needed software update.
• This model year is widely reported to have transmission problems, including hard shifts, lurching, and stalling, related to the 9-speed automatic transmission.
• A recall (NHTSA 16V-529) was issued to address an unexpected shift to neutral, which can be caused by faulty wiring harness crimps related to the TCM power circuit.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• TCM Power Relay Output Voltage — expected: System (Battery) Voltage (approx. 12.6V KOEO, 13.5-14.5V KOER). Failure: Voltage is below 3.0V when the PCM is commanding the relay on.
• TCM Power Control Circuit Resistance to Ground — expected: Infinite resistance (Open circuit). Failure: Resistance is below 5.0 Ohms, indicating a short to ground in the control circuit.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (Dealer) or capable aftermarket (e.g., ThinkDiag+): Proxy Configuration Alignment — Required after replacing the TCM or other major vehicle modules to synchronize them with the Body Control Module (BCM) and prevent communication errors or a flashing odometer. The function is typically found under the BCM's 'Special Functions' or 'Guided Diagnostics' menu.
• wiTECH (Dealer): Valve Body Solenoid Learn — This procedure must be performed after the TCM or the transmission valve body is replaced to ensure proper shift quality by calibrating the new components.
• wiTECH (Dealer): Restore Vehicle Configuration — Used before a Proxy Alignment to ensure the BCM has the correct factory configuration data to write to the new modules.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) — Mounted directly on the transaxle. It is accessed by removing the driver's side front wheel and looking through the opening rearward of the suspension strut.. This is the module that is reporting the power circuit fault. Its location makes it susceptible to weather and vibration, which can affect its connector and internal components.
• TCM C4 Connector — The main electrical connector on the TCM itself.. This is the primary point for testing power and ground signals directly at the module. Common power input wires are often Yellow/Orange.
• Main Chassis/Transmission Ground — A primary ground strap or wire connecting the transmission case to the vehicle's chassis or negative battery terminal.. A corroded or loose ground connection at the transmission can cause a voltage drop, leading to various electrical faults, including TCM power codes. One owner's issue was resolved by fixing a 'rotten' starter ground wire, which often shares a grounding path with the transmission.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user post in r/MechanicAdvice (2015 Chrysler 200) — No start, followed by multiple electrical issues including non-working lights and horn after initial repairs.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) A first mechanic replaced the starter motor, which did not solve the underlying electrical problems.
  ✅ What actually fixed it A second mechanic diagnosed and fixed the true root causes: a badly rotten starter ground wire, a partially broken starter signal wire, and damaged pins in the starter relay socket within the fuse box.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• While multiple Technical Service Bulletins point to a software update as the primary fix for P0885 on the 2015 Chrysler 200, it should not be the only diagnostic step. In one documented case, a vehicle with similar symptoms had the issue resolved only after a thorough inspection revealed a rotten starter ground wire and damaged relay pins in the fuse box. This was after another mechanic had already replaced the starter to no effect. This proves that fundamental electrical issues (power and ground integrity) can mimic the exact symptoms of the widely known software bug and must be ruled out before assuming a module or its programming is at fault.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68225514AA, 68225514AB, 68249614AA → 68294441AA — Part revision and consolidation for the 9-speed transmission TCM.
  Heads up: The replacement module (68294441AA) is not plug-and-play. It must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN using a 'Proxy Alignment' procedure. Failure to program will result in a no-start condition or other communication faults.