P0882🔧 Transmission control module (TCM) power supplyDrive with caution, fix soon

P0882: TCM Power Input Signal Low (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-23 · Based on 2 cited source(s)

What P0882 means

The transmission control module (TCM) is the computer that runs an automatic transmission. Both sources say it is sometimes built into the engine computer (PCM) and sometimes a separate unit, and that like any module it needs proper power and ground. P0882 is set when the voltage reaching the TCM on its power input circuit is too low. The sources describe who detects it differently: RepairPal says the TCM sees the low voltage and tells the PCM to set the code, while OBD-Codes.com says the PCM detects the low voltage condition in the TCM power input circuit. RepairPal says the 'low' in the name points to a short circuit, and lists low battery voltage and a faulty TCM relay among the causes; OBD-Codes.com says P0882 is usually stored because of a defective contact relay, and also lists a failed vehicle speed sensor, CAN network wiring faults and mechanical transmission failure. They also differ on symptoms: RepairPal lists the check engine light and limp mode, while OBD-Codes.com lists harsh or erratic shifting, failure to shift, and disabled traction control and ABS. OBD-Codes.com notes P0882 often comes with other PCM, TCM or ABS codes. RepairPal rates it 'Moderate'; OBD-Codes.com says to diagnose it as soon as possible.

Severity: can I keep driving?

Drive with caution, fix soon

Get it checked soon. RepairPal rates P0882 'Moderate', meaning it may not threaten safety right away but should be diagnosed within a reasonable time. OBD-Codes.com says it should be diagnosed as soon as possible and that the transmission may shift much more harshly than normal. RepairPal lists the transmission getting stuck in limp mode, and OBD-Codes.com says traction control and ABS may be disabled, so don't put off the diagnosis.

Common symptoms

Likely causes

Roughly most to least common, based on the sources below. Your vehicle may differ.

  1. Low battery voltage, or a dead battery in the past (listed by RepairPal)
  2. Faulty TCM power relay (both sources; OBD-Codes.com says a defective relay is the usual cause)
  3. Blown fuse or fusible link in the TCM power supply (both sources)
  4. Short or open in the TCM power circuit or CAN network wiring (both sources)
  5. Failed vehicle speed sensor or mechanical transmission failure (listed by OBD-Codes.com)
  6. Faulty TCM or PCM, or a programming error (both sources)

Diagnostic steps you can do

⚠ Before you start

Work on a cool engine, parked on level ground with the parking brake set. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

  1. Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, write them down, then clear the code and see if it comes back. RepairPal says P0882 can be intermittent or can be left over from a dead battery.
  2. Check for other codes first. RepairPal gives the example of a Chrysler with a code for the power module (smart fuse box), which could point to that module instead of the TCM power circuit.
  3. Test and charge the battery, or replace it if it's weak, then clear the code.
  4. Check the TCM fuses and relay. RepairPal suggests swapping the relay with an identical known-good relay from the same vehicle, or testing it with a multimeter.
  5. Inspect the wiring and connectors at the TCM for broken wires, loose connections, burns or corrosion.
  6. With a multimeter and a wiring diagram for your vehicle, check voltage and ground at the TCM connector. RepairPal says to look for short circuits first, since this is a 'low' code.
  7. Search for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your year, make and model; both sources say a matching bulletin can save a lot of diagnosis time.

Typical fixes

Repair costs vary widely by vehicle, region, parts brand and shop, so we don't quote prices. Get a written estimate after diagnosis.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • The transmission is stuck in limp mode or is shifting harshly
  • Traction control or ABS warnings are on along with P0882
  • Several modules have communication or power codes at once
  • The relay, fuses, battery and wiring check out and the TCM is suspected; it may need replacing or reprogramming with dealer-level tools

Where to buy

Plain search links. Always match parts to your exact year, make, model and engine.

OBD2 scanners on Amazon Parts at Advance Auto Parts catalog at RockAuto

FAQs

Is it safe to drive with P0882?

RepairPal rates it 'Moderate', but the transmission may go into limp mode or shift harshly, and OBD-Codes.com says traction control and ABS may be disabled. Get it diagnosed as soon as you can.

Can a bad battery cause P0882?

Yes. RepairPal lists low battery voltage as a cause and says the code can show up after a dead battery. Test and charge the battery, clear the code, and see if it returns.

What is the most common fix for P0882?

OBD-Codes.com says it's usually stored because of a defective relay. RepairPal says to check the battery, then the TCM relay and fuses, then the TCM wiring, before suspecting the TCM itself.

How much does it cost to fix P0882?

Neither source gives a repair cost. A relay, fuse or battery is far cheaper than a TCM, so get a diagnosis and a written estimate first.

Sources

  1. OBD-Codes.com: P0882 TCM Power Input Signal Low (Stephen Darby, ASE)
  2. RepairPal: P0882 OBD-II code (rated Moderate)

Last reviewed 2026-10-23. Code definitions and repair steps can vary by manufacturer. Confirm with your vehicle's service information.