P0882 – Transmission control module (TCM) -power input signal low

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By Jason (Contact Me)
Last Updated 2016-06-20
The Automotive Copywriter
CodeFault LocationProbable Cause
P0882 Transmission control module (TCM) -power input signal low
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Wiring, short to earth, TCM

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Table of Contents

  1. What Does Code P0882 Mean?
  2. What are the common causes of code P0882 ?
  3. What are the symptoms of code P0882 ?
  4. How do you troubleshoot code P0882 ?
  5. Codes Related to P0882
  6. Get Help with P0882

What Does Code P0882 Mean?

In transmissions with electronic shift controls, power is supplied to the transmission control module through the transmission control output circuit. This circuit provides the requisite power for the transmission control module, the transmission solenoid/pressure switch assembly, and the PCM under normal operating conditions.

If the vehicle experiences a problem that requires the transmission to be put into limp mode, the transmission control output circuit voltage changes. The transmission will engage in low gear as a self-protective measure and will not shift.

When the engine is started or the key is turned to the run position, the transmission control module performs a system check. It looks for voltage on the transmission control circuit. If the circuit is open, it requests the transmission control circuit to be powered up from the PCM. If low voltage is detected, DTC P0882 is set.

What are the common causes of code P0882 ?

  • Wiring problem – rubbing or broken wires or corrosion on the transmission control circuit is a common issue that causes DTC P0882. A wiring repair is all it takes to repair the condition.
  • Pushed-out or bent pins – damaged connector pins at the PCM or TIPM modules commonly cause the DTC P0882. This is most likely the case if the issue comes up immediately after repairing another condition.
  • Bad battery – low voltage codes are quite often related to poor battery condition. Weak batteries should be replaced to prevent annoyances like erroneous P0882 codes.
  • PCM fault – the PCM is difficult to diagnose as the cause of code P0882 but can be the point of failure.

What are the symptoms of code P0882 ?

When DTC P0882 has been set, the Check Engine light will be illuminated. In most vehicles, if the DTC is active the transmission will engage limp mode and will not shift. If P0882 is simply a stored DTC, it’s possible the transmission will shift as designed or it may also engage limp mode, depending on the vehicle affected.

How do you troubleshoot code P0882 ?

Battery

Because DTC P0882 is primarily related to an electronic shift control issue, low battery voltage can cause the code to set. Before beginning any in-depth electronic diagnosis, check that the battery voltage is proper.

A telltale sign that the battery is weak and may be causing DTC P0882 is if you require a boost to start the engine. Alternatively, perform a load test on the battery. Many auto parts retailers will perform out-of-vehicle load testing on batteries for no charge. If the load test fails, replace your battery. Clear the DTC with a code reader. If the code returns, continue with diagnosis.

Transmission Control Circuit Short To Ground

Locate the transmission control circuit for your vehicle at the PCM connector. You will need a wiring diagram specific to your make and model for accurate diagnosis, which you may be able to get printed from a parts retailer.

With the key in the off position, test the transmission control circuit between the PCM and the powertrain control module/totally integrated power module. The transmission control circuit should read 5.0 ohms. If the resistance is less than 5.0 ohms, there is likely a short to ground.

tipm

If the code is inactive or stored, it’s possible you have an intermittent short to ground also. Trace the circuit while monitoring the resistance, wiggling the wire and checking for breaks or rubbed sections in the wire. If you detect a change in resistance while wiggling a section, perform a repair on the wire, clear the codes and retest.

Transmission Control Circuit Open

Using a DVOM, check the transmission control circuit resistance in the same way as checking for a short to ground. If the resistance is more than 5.0 ohms, you likely have an open circuit.

To check for an open circuit, trace along the length of the transmission control circuit, checking for breaks in the wiring. Repair any broken wiring and make sure all connectors are fully seated and locked.

Pay close attention to connectors, looking for corrosion, bent or broken pins, or moisture in the connector. Repair any connector issues even if they are not specifically part of the transmission control circuit as they may serve a function in providing power to the transmission control circuit.

Powertrain Control Module

If you have an active DTC P0882 and you have verified that the transmission control circuit is good, the fault might lie with the PCM. Test the PCM by replacing it with a known good module and retest.

Low Voltage

Code P0882 can set due to low battery voltage caused by either improper charging system operation or excessive draw during starting.

With the engine running, test the alternator output with your DVOM. When running, your alternator should produce in the vicinity of 14.0 volts. If it is less than 12.0 volts at any time with the engine running, the alternator will need to be replaced.

A starter that draws excessive power during cranking can cause erroneous codes in the PCM. Common signs are slow engine cranking despite a fully-charged battery and no-crank situations with a full battery charge. The starter may need to be replaced, then retest for DTC P0882.

  • P0846 – Transmission fluid pressure (TFP) sensor B -range/ performance problem
  • P0869 – Transmission fluid pressure (TFP) sensor -high
  • P0871 – Transmission fluid pressure (TFP) sensor C range/performance

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