What P0885 means
Some transmissions draw their power through a relay, such as the transmission control relay in Chrysler's fuse box that feeds the solenoids.
How the engine computer detects it
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 transmission drops into its hydraulic emergency gear. P0885 means the coil circuit is open; the module checks its relay driver output at key-on. Ford lists it in its powertrain code list with or without MIL depending on vehicle; on FCA's 948TE nine-speed in the 2015 Cherokee and Chrysler 200 it was cured with a transmission module reflash.
Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages
Symptoms
- MIL on
- Limp mode in a fixed gear, no shifting
- Harsh engagement into D or R
Common causes
- Relay faulty (coil open) or missing Most likely
- Wire between relay and module open, connector or fuse box contact Most likely
- Fuse of the relay coil blown Possible
- Module software (FCA 948TE reflash) Possible
How to diagnose P0885
- Read every stored code with an OBD-II scanner. If misfire or fuel trim codes are there too, fix those first: they often cause this one.
- Inspect the parts involved: transmission relay, relay wiring, fuse, transmission control module.
- Work through the causes above from most to least likely, cheapest checks first.
- Clear the code and drive a full drive cycle to confirm the repair held.
Reading the code
- P
- Powertrain
- 0
- Generic (SAE) code
- 8
- Transmission
- 85
- Specific fault
Questions drivers ask
Can I drive with code P0885?
Drive gently and only as far as you need to. The engine computer may limit power to protect the engine, so avoid highways and heavy traffic until it's fixed. If the check engine light starts flashing, pull over.
Will my car pass an emissions inspection with P0885?
Probably not in states that test vehicles with an OBD-II scan: an emissions-related code that keeps the check engine light on is usually an automatic fail. Rules differ by state and county, so check yours.
Can I fix P0885 myself?
Often yes, with an OBD-II scanner and basic tools. Difficulty: easy. Start with the cheapest checks before replacing expensive parts.
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Repair costs are rough estimates for parts and labor and vary by vehicle and region.