P0883 – Transmission control module (TCM) -power input signal high

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By Jason (Contact Me)
Last Updated 2016-06-21
The Automotive Copywriter
CodeFault LocationProbable Cause
P0883 Transmission control module (TCM) -power input signal high
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Table of Contents

  1. What Does Code P0883 Mean?
  2. What are the common causes of code P0883 ?
  3. What are the symptoms of code P0883 ?
  4. How do you troubleshoot code P0883 ?
  5. Codes Related to P0883
  6. Get Help with P0883

What Does Code P0883 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 high voltage is detected, DTC P0883 is set.

What are the common causes of code P0883 ?

  • Wiring problem – rubbing or broken wires or corrosion on the transmission control circuit is a common issue that causes DTC P0883. 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 P0883. This is most likely the case if the issue comes up immediately after repairing another condition.
  • Bad alternator – high voltage codes are often related to excessive alternator voltage.
  • PCM fault – the PCM is difficult to diagnose as the cause of code P0883 but can be the point of failure.

What are the symptoms of code P0883 ?

When DTC P0883 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 P0883 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 P0883 ?

Alternator

Circuit High Input codes like P0883 are mostly caused by defective alternators that develop excessive voltages, although there may be other causes as well, such as short circuits that “leak” current into a particular system from other, unrelated systems that work on higher voltages. Note that in the case of short circuits that leak power into a control circuit, there is likely to be other, seemingly unrelated trouble codes present along with the code(s) being investigated. Diagnosing a “high input” code will always involve a thorough testing of the charging system as a first step, followed by measures to isolate the system from all other possible sources of power during resistance, continuity, and reference voltage tests.

Transmission Control Circuit Short To Voltage

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.

tipm

If the code is inactive or stored, it’s possible you have an intermittent short to voltage 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 P0883 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.

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

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