P0887 on 2015-2017 Jeep Renegade: TCM Power Control Circuit High Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2017 Jeep RENEGADE

The 2015-2017 Jeep Renegade uses the ZF-designed 9-speed automatic transmission, known within FCA as the 948TE. This transmission is known for its complex software that has required numerous updates across multiple platforms (including the Jeep Cherokee and Chrysler 200) to resolve drivability and reliability issues. Code P0887 is a very common result of these software issues, where the module's programming incorrectly reports a high voltage condition, often without a true electrical fault in the wiring. Multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) have been issued by Jeep specifically to fix P0887 with a software flash, confirming it's a known factory issue.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) is on.
• "Service Transmission" warning light on the dashboard.
• Vehicle enters "limp mode," often getting stuck in one gear.
• Harsh or erratic shifting between gears.
• Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
• Vehicle may not start.
• Hill Start Assist and Traction Control warning lights may illuminate.
• Unresponsive accelerator pedal.

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software 🔴 High Probability FCA has released multiple TSBs for the 2015-2017 Renegade to resolve this specific code with a software update. TSB 21-040-17 explicitly states the fix for P0887 is to reprogram the TCM. This is the most common and well-documented failure mode.
   How to confirm: A Jeep dealer or a qualified shop with a wiTECH scan tool can check the current software version on the TCM against the latest available version for your vehicle's VIN.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming (flashing) the TCM with the latest software. This is not a DIY repair and typically costs between $150-$250 at a dealership.
   Est. part cost: $150-$250 for the dealer service
2. Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM) 🟡 Medium Probability If a software update doesn't fix the issue, the internal power relay or circuitry within the module itself has likely failed. The TCM is located on top of the transmission, under the battery and air filter housing, where it's subjected to heat and vibration.
   How to confirm: This is diagnosed by exclusion. If the software is up-to-date and all wiring and power inputs are confirmed good, the TCM is the culprit. A technician may also attempt to communicate directly with the TCM; a failure to do so points to a bad module.
   Typical fix: Replace the Transmission Control Module and program the new unit to the vehicle's VIN using a wiTECH scan tool.
   Est. part cost: $400-$700
3. Weak Battery or Faulty Charging System ⚪ Low Probability Low system voltage or voltage spikes from a bad alternator can cause electronic modules to behave erratically. TSBs for this issue specifically warn technicians to maintain stable battery voltage (between 13.2 and 13.5 volts) during the flashing procedure, highlighting the module's sensitivity to voltage fluctuations.
   How to confirm: Test the battery's health and state of charge. With the engine running, check the alternator's output voltage with a multimeter; it should be stable and typically between 13.5-14.5 volts.
   Typical fix: Replace the battery or the faulty alternator.
   Est. part cost: $150-$500
4. Wiring Harness or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability While less common for this specific code on the Renegade, chafed, corroded, or loose wiring to the TCM can cause high resistance or short circuits. The main connector on the TCM itself is a known point to check for corrosion or backed-out pins.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the TCM (located under the battery tray) for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Perform a continuity and voltage drop test on the power and ground circuits.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the faulty connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$200

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan for all Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) to see if other codes are present, which can provide context.
2. Check battery health and charging system operation. Ensure voltage is stable and within the 13.5-14.5V range when the engine is running. A weak battery can cause numerous false electronic codes.
3. Using a dealer-level scan tool (wiTECH), check for applicable TSBs for your vehicle's VIN. The provided TSBs (#21-043-17, #21-042-17, #21-032-15 REVA, #21-040-17, #21-011-17) are directly relevant.
4. Verify the current software version on the TCM. If an update is available, perform the TCM reprogramming procedure as outlined in the TSBs. This step requires a dealer or specialized shop.
5. If the code returns after the software update, perform a physical inspection. Remove the battery and battery tray to access the TCM. Inspect the TCM wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
6. If the wiring is intact and the software is current, the TCM is the most likely cause of failure and should be replaced and programmed to the vehicle.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software Update — This is the most common and manufacturer-recommended first step to resolve a P0887 code on this platform, as confirmed by multiple TSBs.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (dealer service)
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) (OEM #68259511AA, 68379382AB (Part numbers are VIN-specific and often superseded; always verify with a dealer)) — If a software update does not fix the issue, the module's internal power control circuitry has likely failed. The TCM is located on the transmission, under the battery tray.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $400-$700
  Aftermarket price range: $300-$600

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U1412 — Implausible Vehicle Speed Signal Received. This can occur when the TCM is malfunctioning and sending bad data over the CAN bus network. [TSB #21-043-17, TSB #21-011-17]
• U0001 — High Speed CAN Communication Bus. This indicates a general communication failure, which is a common side effect of a module (like the TCM) having power issues. [TSB #21-043-17, TSB #21-011-17]
• P0711 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance. A faulty TCM can misinterpret sensor data, leading to this code. [TSB #21-042-17, TSB #21-032-15 REVA]
• P072F — Stuck In Fourth Gear. This is a direct symptom of the TCM failing to control the transmission properly due to the power circuit fault. [TSB #21-042-17]

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-043-17: Mentions P0887 on 2017 models in conjunction with communication codes.
• 21-042-17: Links P0887 on 2016 models to other transmission performance codes like being stuck in gear.
• 21-032-15 REVA: Connects P0887 on 2015 models with harsh shifting and other gear-related codes.
• 21-040-17: Specifically calls out P0887 as the primary code fixed by a TCM software flash on 2017 models.
• 21-011-17: Associates P0887 on 2016 models with CAN bus communication codes.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Multiple Technical Service Bulletins have been issued by Jeep for the 2015-2017 Renegade specifically to address code P0887 by reprogramming the TCM. This indicates a widespread software issue from the factory.
• The ZF 9-speed (948TE) transmission used in this vehicle is known for requiring numerous software updates to correct shifting and performance issues, with P0887 being a common flag for these problems.