P0887 — TCM Power Relay Control Circuit High

What Does P0887 Mean?

P0887 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: TCM Power Relay Control Circuit High. This code relates to the transmission system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 2 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of P0887

⚠️ Check engine light illuminated
⚠️ Traction control system activated
⚠️ Failure to accelerate

Common Causes

🔍 Worn or fouled spark plugs
🔍 Wiring or connector problem
🔍 Blown head gasket
🔍 Sensor or control module malfunction

P0887 Reports by Year

2016

3

2019

3

2021

2

2020

2

2023

1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"COMPLETE ELECTRICAL POWER FAILURE DUE TO PERSISTENT DRAIN ON BATTERY. AFTER JUMPSTART, CAR WAS OPERATIONAL; HOWEVER, THERE IS INTERMITTENT FAILURE WHEN THE CAR IS NOT IN USE FOR 24 HOURS. INTERMITTENT HARD FAULT WITH DTC P0887 IN SOBDMC (SECONDARY ON BOARD DIAGNOSTICS MODEL C). BELOW ARE A SUBSET "
— Ford Fusion owner, 12/13/2016

"TRANSMISSION ELECTRONICALLY SHIFTED FROM DRIVE TO MANUAL, WHILE IN TRAFFIC, THREE TIMES SO FAR. SERVICE TRANSMISSION, SERVICE EMERGENCY BRAKE, TRACTION CONTROL OFF, AND MIL ILLUMINATED(CODE P0887 STORED). SOFTWARE UPDATES PREFORMED IN JULY. TRANSMISSION SHIFTS ERRATICALLY AT LOW SPEEDS SINCE UPDATES"
— Jeep Cherokee owner, 07/15/2016

"ON TWO OCCASIONS THE FOLLOWING SEQUENCE OF EVENTS HAVE HAPPENED. 1. "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT APPEARS. MESSAGE READS "SERVICE TRANSMISSION". 2. IMMEDIATELY TRANSMISSION NO LONGER RESPONDS. 3. TURN OFF VEHICLE. UPON RESTARTING "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT REMAINS ON BUT VEHICLE RETURNS TO FUNCTIONING NORMALLY."
— Jeep Cherokee owner, 11/18/2016

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P0887

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

#	Vehicle	Reports
1	JEEP CHEROKEE
2	FORD FUSION

P0887 Reports by Vehicle

Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.

JEEP CHEROKEE

12 NHTSA reports · Peak: 2016, 2014, 2015

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive with this transmission code?

Use caution. Transmission codes can indicate serious issues that worsen with continued driving. Avoid highway speeds until diagnosed.

Do I need a full transmission rebuild?

Not necessarily. Many transmission codes are caused by solenoids, sensors, or low fluid — which are much cheaper fixes than a rebuild.

How much does a transmission repair cost?

Solenoid replacement: $200-500. Valve body: $500-1,000. Full rebuild: $1,800-3,500. Get a proper diagnosis first.

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
🔧 Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
🔧 Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections
🔧 Check transmission fluid level and condition; top off or change if needed
🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)

1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

P0887: TCM Power Relay Control Circuit High