P0885 on 2015 Jeep Cherokee: TCM Power Control Circuit Fault Guide

What's Unique About the 2015-2015 Jeep CHEROKEE

The 2015 Jeep Cherokee (KL generation) and its platform-mate, the Chrysler 200, were early adopters of the ZF 9-speed automatic transmission, which was known for significant software and control issues in its initial years. Many drivability complaints, including harsh shifting, lurching, and unpredictable behavior, 🎬 Watch: Owners discuss their experiences with these transmission issues were traced back to software glitches rather than mechanical failures. As a result, this P0885 code is frequently associated with software that needs to be updated by a dealer, a solution addressed in several manufacturer TSBs that cover multiple vehicles with this transmission.

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 stuck in one gear (limp mode).
• Vehicle may not shift or move.
• Check Engine Light and/or Transmission Warning Light are on.
• Engine may stall when coming to a stop.
• Vehicle unexpectedly shifts to neutral.
• Multiple warning lights on the dash, such as 'Service Transmission', 'Service E-Brake', and 'Service Hill Start Assist'.
• A hard 'bang' or 'clunk' when shifting out of Park.

Most Likely Causes

1. TCM/PCM Software Requires Update 🔴 High Probability The 2015 Cherokee had numerous software-related transmission issues from the factory, which Chrysler addressed with multiple TSBs (e.g., 21-019-17 REV. A, 21-015-16) that specifically list P0885 as a code resolved by a software flash.
   How to confirm: A Jeep dealer or qualified shop with a wiTECH scan tool can check the current software version against the latest available version referenced in TSBs.
   Typical fix: Update the TCM and/or PCM software using a dealer-level diagnostic tool. This is often referred to as a 'reflash' and may require a 'PROXI Configuration Alignment' afterwards.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Wiring or Connector Issue 🟡 Medium Probability Recall S55 was issued for insufficient crimps in the transaxle wire harness which could cause intermittent high electrical resistance and lead to a loss of connection. This fault directly causes the transmission to default to neutral or enter limp mode.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors between the fuse box, relay, and the TCM for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness. A multimeter can be used to check for continuity and proper voltage at the TCM connector. The S55 recall procedure involves checking for specific DTCs to determine if the harness needs replacement.
   Typical fix: If related to the S55 recall, a dealer will perform a software update and, if necessary, replace the transaxle range sensor wire harness. Otherwise, repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the corroded connector.
   Est. part cost: $5-$100
3. Faulty TCM Power Relay 🟡 Medium Probability Relays are electromechanical switches that can wear out over time, and this is a common failure point for any power circuit.
   How to confirm: Locate the TCM power relay in the vehicle's fuse box (Power Distribution Center). 🎬 See this guide to locate your TCM fuse and relay You can test it with a multimeter or swap it with an identical relay from a non-critical system (like the horn) to see if the problem resolves.
   Typical fix: Replace the faulty relay.
   Est. part cost: $10-$30
4. Blown Fuse or Faulty Fusible Link ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Check the fuses related to the TCM and transmission in the under-hood and interior fuse panels. Visually inspect them and test with a multimeter under load.
   Typical fix: Replace the blown fuse. If it blows again immediately, this indicates a short circuit that needs to be diagnosed.
   Est. part cost: $1-$5

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM): While possible, the TCM itself is rarely the cause of the failure. All other possibilities, especially software and wiring, should be exhausted before condemning the module. Misdiagnosing a bad TCM is common.
• Weak Battery or Failing Alternator: Low system voltage can cause a variety of unpredictable electrical issues in modern vehicles, including triggering power-related codes for various modules. Diagnosis for TSB flashes requires stable battery voltage between 13.2 and 13.5 volts. This should be checked early in the diagnosis.
🎬 Watch: How to check grounds for common electrical problems

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for active Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and recalls (like S55) related to the transmission for your specific VIN. The most likely fix is a software update.
2. Check the vehicle's battery and charging system to ensure stable voltage above 12.4V at rest and within spec while running. A battery charger is recommended during any software flashing.
3. Locate and inspect all fuses related to the transmission and TCM in the Power Distribution Center. Replace any that are blown.
4. Locate the TCM power relay in the main fuse box. Swap it with a known-good, identical relay to see if the code clears and symptoms disappear.
5. If the issue persists, inspect the wiring harness and connectors going to the TCM for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose pins, paying close attention to the main connector at the TCM and areas mentioned in recall S55.
6. Using a multimeter, verify that battery voltage is present at the TCM power relay socket and at the TCM's power input pin with the key in the 'ON' position.
7. If all wiring and power sources are confirmed to be good, the vehicle must be taken to a dealer or qualified shop to have the TCM/PCM software updated using a wiTECH tool.
8. If a software update does not resolve the issue, further diagnosis of the TCM itself is required, which may lead to replacement as a final step.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• TCM Power Relay — A common and inexpensive failure point for the TCM power circuit. It's often the first part to check and replace after fuses.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Bosch, Standard Motor Products
  OEM price range: $20-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $10-$25
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) — This is a last resort if all other diagnostic steps, including software updates and wiring checks, fail to resolve the code. It is an expensive part and rarely the true cause.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $600-$800
  Aftermarket price range: $400-$600

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0711 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range-Performance. This code is listed alongside P0885 in multiple TSBs (e.g., 21-019-17 REV. A), indicating a common software glitch triggers them together.
• P0975 — Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit Performance. Also listed in the same TSBs as P0885, pointing to a shared software-related cause.
• P0887 — TCM Power Control Circuit High. This code is for the opposite condition (high voltage) but is also mentioned in the same TSBs, suggesting a group of related software faults.
• P1DB2 — Actuator Supply Voltage 'A' Circuit. A real-world owner on a forum reported this code appearing simultaneously with P0885, indicating a related power supply fault detected by the system.
• C1240-86 — Automatic/Robotic Gear Box Signal Fault - Signal Invalid. This chassis code was reported by an owner along with P0885, suggesting the loss of power to the TCM caused a communication breakdown with other modules like the ABS/stability control system.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-019-17 REV. A: Mentions P0885 as one of several codes that can be resolved with a TCM software update for the 2015 Jeep Cherokee and Chrysler 200.
• 21-015-16: Also lists P0885 as part of a group of codes addressed by a PCM/TCM software flash for the 2015 Cherokee and 200.
• 21-021-15 REV. E: Connects P0885 to drivability issues and recommends a software update as the fix for the 2015 Cherokee.
• Recall S55 / NHTSA 16V-529: Addresses a wiring harness crimp issue that can cause a loss of motive power. The fix involves a software update to put the vehicle in limp mode instead of neutral and may include harness replacement.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Recall S55 - Insufficient Wire Crimp: The 2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee was subject to recall S55 for insufficient crimps in the transaxle wire harness, which could cause intermittent high electrical resistance. This fault can cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift to neutral and may be a root cause for code P0885. The fix involves a software update and, if certain DTCs are present, replacement of the harness.
• Prevalent Software Issues: Numerous TSBs were released to address software issues causing poor shift quality and setting various transmission codes, including P0885. TSB 21-019-17 REV. A is a key example, calling for a TCM reflash to correct this and other codes on both the Cherokee and Chrysler 200.
• Owner Experience with Cold-Start Faults: A Jeep Renegade owner (with the same t

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Voltage at TCM power input pin — expected: Battery voltage (approx. 12.6V with key on, engine off; ~14V with engine running). Failure: 0V or significantly lower than battery voltage indicates an open circuit in the power supply wiring, fuse, or relay.
• Voltage at TCM power relay control circuit (from PCM) — expected: Battery voltage when the PCM commands the relay ON (typically with key on).. Failure: 0V when the key is on suggests a problem with the PCM or the wiring between the PCM and the relay.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH: TCM VIN Verification — After reprogramming the TCM, this routine must be performed to ensure the module is correctly configured to the vehicle.
• wiTECH: PROXI Configuration Alignment — After flashing any module, this function is used to verify that all control modules on the CAN bus are communicating correctly and are properly aligned with the vehicle's configuration.
• wiTECH: Quick Learn — After a software update or transmission repair, this procedure is necessary to allow the TCM to relearn clutch fill times and shift points. The PCM must be up-to-date for this function to be available.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Power Distribution Center (Underhood Fuse Box) — Located in the engine compartment, near the battery on the driver's side.. This is the location of the primary fuses and potentially the relay that supply power to the TCM.
• F28 Fuse — In the underhood Power Distribution Center. It is a double micro three-blade fuse.. This is the main fuse for the Transmission Control Module (TCM). A failure here will cut all power and set a P0885.
• TCM Power Relay — For the 2015 Cherokee, sources indicate there is no single, swappable relay for the TCM. Power is controlled via the F28 fuse and internal logic, making the fuse and wiring the primary external check.. While many guides mention a relay, vehicle-specific information points to an integrated power control system, focusing diagnosis on fuses and wiring.
• G108 Ground — On the passenger side inner fender, near the power distribution block.. This ground point is critical as it serves the Body Control Module (BCM) and the Transmission Control Module (TCM). A loose or corroded G108 can cause intermittent power loss to the TCM, triggering P0885.
• TCM Location — The TCM for the 9-speed transmission is typically mounted directly to the transmission housing inside the engine bay.. Knowing its location is necessary for inspecting the main harness connector for damage, corrosion, or issues related to the S55 recall.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Jeep Cherokee Forum user (2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 3.2L V6) — Vehicle went into limp mode, 'Service Transmission' light on, codes P0885 and U1424 (Implausible Engine Torque Signal). The issue was intermittent, often happening after hitting a bump.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Dealer performed software updates (TSBs), but the problem returned., Initial wiring checks found no obvious faults.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The technician eventually traced the problem to a poor ground connection. A braided ground strap from the engine block to the chassis was found to be loose and slightly corroded. Cleaning the contact points and tightening the ground strap resolved the intermittent power loss to the TCM and cleared the codes permanently.