P0882 OBD-II: TCM Power Input Signal Low

What does code P0882 mean?

Code P0882 stands for TCM Power Input Low

The transmission control module (TCM) is the onboard computer that governs your vehicle’s transmission. Sometimes the transmission control module is built into the powertrain control module (PCM) and other times it’s a standalone unit.

Powertrain Control Module

Like any other computer, the TCM receives inputs from peripheral devices, such as sensors and switches. The TCM then uses this information to control various outputs, such as the shift solenoids and torque converter clutch solenoid. It’s through operation of these output devices that the TCM controls transmission operation.

Like any other electronic device, the TCM must have proper power and ground. Code P0882 indicates there isn’t enough power getting to the transmission module. This is usually due to a problem with the power input circuit. The ‘low’ portion of the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a short circuit, whereas ‘high’ would indicate and open circuit.

P0882 symptoms

• An illuminated check engine light
• Vehicle stuck in “limp” mode

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Common causes for P0882

Code P0882 is typically caused by one of the following:

• A problem with the TCM circuit
• Low battery voltage
• A faulty TCM relay
• An internal TCM issue

How to diagnose and repair P0882

Perform a preliminary inspection

Sometimes P0882 can pop up intermittently, or it can result from a dead battery. Clear the code and see if it returns. If it does, the next step is to perform a visual inspection. A trained eye can check for issues such as broken wires and loose connections. If a problem is found, the issue should be repaired and the code cleared. If nothing is discovered, check for technical service bulletins (TSBs). TSBs are recommended diagnostic and repair procedures put out by the vehicle manufacturer. Finding a related TSB can greatly reduce diagnostic time.

Check for other trouble codes

Before proceeding, the vehicle should be checked for related DTCs. This could help speed up the diagnostic process. On example is a Chrysler vehicle with a DTC for the totally integrated power module (basically a smart fuse box). Such a code could pinpoint a problem with that module, and not the TCM power input circuit.

Check the battery

The next thing a professional will do is check the battery. There won’t be enough voltage getting to the TCM is the battery isn’t up to snuff. The battery should be charged or replaced as needed and the code cleared.

Check the TCM/PCM relay

A relay is used to supply power to the TCM. Since relays are usually easy to access and test, this is the next step. Relay function can be tested by swapping the relay with another known good relay from the vehicle. Other ways to check the relay include testing it with a digital multimeter (DMM) and using jumper wires in its place.

Check the fuses

Like relays, fuses are easy to check. A blown fuse will prevent power from reaching the TCM. Fuses can be inspected visually, to see if their filament is blown. They can also be checked with a DMM or test light.

Check TCM circuit

The next step is to check the TCM circuit for problems. This is usually done using a DMM at the TCM connector. Since the code is for signal low, short circuits should be checked first. If a problem is found, the factory wiring diagram will need to be traced to pinpoint the concern. Then, the issue can be repaired and the code cleared.

Repair or replace the TCM

If everything checks out, there may be a problem with the TCM. It may be detecting a low input power condition when there really isn’t one. At this point, the TCM would either need to be replaced or reprogrammed.

Other diagnostic codes related to P0882

• P0880: Code P0880 indicates the transmission control module TCM has detected an input signal malfunction.
• P0881: Code P0881 indicates the transmission control module TCM has detected a problem with input signal range/performance.
• P0883: Code P0883 indicates the transmission control module TCM has detected a high input signal.
• P0884: Code P0884 indicates the transmission control module TCM has detected an intermittent input signal problem.

Code P0882 technical details

P0882 is monitored when the vehicle ignition is turned from the “OFF” to the “RUN” position and/or when the ignition it turned from the “START” to “RUN” position.