P0887 on 2015 Chrysler 200: TCM Power Control Circuit High Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2015 Chrysler 200

The 2015 Chrysler 200 was one of the first vehicles to use the new ZF 9-speed automatic transmission (sales code 948TE). This transmission was known for having numerous electronic and software-related issues in its early years, leading to a poor reputation for reliability. As a result, Chrysler released several software updates to address problems like harsh shifting, erratic behavior, and false diagnostic codes, including P0887. The high frequency of TSBs for this exact code points to a widespread software issue rather than a typical hardware failure. This issue is not unique to the 200; its platform mate, the Jeep Cherokee (KL), suffers from the exact same problem and shares the same TSBs.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Harsh or erratic shifting
• Transmission gets stuck in one gear (limp mode)
• Failure to downshift, especially the 3-2 downshift.
• Illuminated Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light)
• "Service Transmission" message on the dashboard.
• Transmission or traction control warning light may be on.
• Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse
• Vehicle stalls or is undrivable.

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The 2015 model year had numerous documented software issues with the new 9-speed transmission. Chrysler issued multiple TSBs (e.g., 21-015-16, 21-019-17 REV. A) specifically to fix P0887 with a software update. This is the most common and first-line fix recommended by the manufacturer.
   How to confirm: A dealership or a qualified shop with a wiTECH scan tool can check the current software calibration ID against the latest version available from the manufacturer. An owner on Reddit confirmed their VIN fell under a software patch recall and was taking it to the dealer as the first step.
   Typical fix: Reprogram (flash) the TCM with the latest software version. This must be done by a dealer or a shop with the appropriate tools. The cost typically ranges from $75 to $250.
   Est. part cost: $0 (if covered by a campaign) - $250
2. Failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly If a software update doesn't resolve the code, the internal circuitry of the TCM may have failed. The power relay for the TCM is integrated into the module and is not a separate, serviceable part on this platform. This is a common failure point for vehicles with the ZF 9-speed.
   How to confirm: This is diagnosed by exclusion. If the TCM software is confirmed to be up-to-date and all wiring, power, and ground inputs to the module test correctly, the TCM is the likely culprit. An owner of a 2014 Jeep Cherokee with P0887 confirmed the dealer replaced the TCM after verifying the software was already current.
   Typical fix: Replace the Transmission Control Module. The new module must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN. The total replacement cost can range from $500 to $1500 depending on the part source and labor.
   Est. part cost: $400-$700
3. Wiring Harness or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability While less common than software issues for this code, the wiring harness to the transmission can be susceptible to damage from heat, vibration, or chafing. Rodents have also been known to chew through the harness, causing multiple communication codes.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the TCM for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Check for corrosion inside the main connector plugs. Perform a continuity and voltage test on the TCM power and ground circuits using a multimeter and a wiring diagram.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the faulty connector. Mopar and aftermarket harness repair kits are available.
   Est. part cost: $20-$200

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Alternator: An alternator that is over-charging the electrical system (producing excessive voltage) can trigger high voltage codes in various modules. Check the charging system voltage; it should be stable and typically between 13.5-14.5V when the engine is running.
• Weak Battery or Poor Ground Connection: → Shop Vehicle Battery A failing battery or a corroded main ground can cause erratic voltage fluctuations, confusing sensitive electronic modules and potentially setting a P0887 code. TSBs for the TCM flash procedure specifically warn to maintain stable battery voltage between 13.2 and 13.5 volts during the process to prevent issues. In one documented case, a full battery disconnect (including shorting the disconnected terminals to drain capacitors) resolved a host of electrical issues on a 2015 Chrysler 200 that presented with transmission problems.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan for all stored DTCs to see if other codes are present, especially those listed in the TSBs.
2. Check battery health and charging system operation. Ensure voltage is stable and within the 13.5-14.5V range with the engine running.
3. Crucially, check for applicable TSBs. Use the VIN to see if the vehicle is covered by TSBs #21-019-17 REV. A, #21-021-15 REV-C, or #21-015-16.
4. If a TSB applies and the software has not been updated, have a dealership or qualified shop perform the TCM reprogramming. This is the most likely fix. Ensure a battery charger is used to keep voltage between 13.2 and 13.5 volts during the flash.
5. After flashing, the technician should perform a 'PROXI Configuration Alignment' and 'VIN Verification' routine as specified by the TSB. A 'Quick Learn' procedure may also be required.
6. If the software is already up-to-date, inspect the TCM wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or looseness. Pay close attention to the main connector at the transmission.
7. Using a multimeter and a wiring diagram, verify that the TCM has proper power and ground signals at its connector.
8. If software is current and all wiring tests good, the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely failed component and should be replaced.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software Update — This is the manufacturer's recommended first step and most common solution for P0887 on this specific vehicle, as documented in multiple TSBs.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (dealer service)
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) (OEM #68225514AB, 68315880AA (Part numbers vary, verify with VIN)) — If a software update does not fix the issue, the module's internal power relay or circuitry has likely failed. Part number 68225514AB is listed as fitting the 2015 Chrysler 200.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $400-$700
  Aftermarket price range: $300-$600

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P061B — Internal Control Module Torque Calculation Performance. This code is frequently cited alongside P0887 in Chrysler TSBs for this vehicle. [Bulletin #21-019-17 REV. A, Bulletin #21-015-16]
• U0401 — Implausible Data Received From ECM/PCM. This indicates a communication breakdown between the engine and transmission computers, often triggered by the power fault in the TCM. [Bulletin #21-021-15 REV-C, Bulletin #21-015-16]
• P1DAD — Input Shaft-Output Shaft Direction Correlation. This is another transmission-specific code often listed with P0887 in TSBs, pointing to the widespread software issues. [Bulletin #21-021-15 REV-C]
• P0711 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range-Performance. Also mentioned in TSBs related to TCM software updates. [Bulletin #21-021-15 REV-C, Bulletin #21-018-17 REV. A]

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-019-17 REV. A: Mentions P0887-00 as part of a list of codes related to TCM performance.
• 21-021-15 REV-C: Lists P0887-00 along with symptoms like hard downshifts, addressed by a software update.
• 21-015-16: Explicitly states that reprogramming the TCM is the fix for P0887-00 on 2015 Chrysler 200 and Jeep Cherokee models.
• 21-021-15 REV. E: An earlier revision of a TSB that also lists P0887-00 as a known code.
• 21-018-17 REV. A: Addresses P0887 on the Ram ProMaster City, a platform mate with the same transmission.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• The 2015 Chrysler 200 was subject to numerous TSBs and customer complaints related to the performance of its ZF 9-speed automatic transmission.
• TSB #21-015-16 specifically addresses P0887 on the 2015 Chrysler 200 and instructs technicians to reprogram the TCM with updated software to resolve the issue. This TSB also covers the 2015 Jeep Cherokee, highlighting the shared nature of the problem.
• A recall was issued for some 2015 Chrysler

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Battery Voltage During TCM Flash — expected: 13.2 - 13.5 Volts. Failure: Voltage dropping below 13.2V or climbing above 13.5V can cause the flash to fail or corrupt the module.
• Charging System Voltage (Engine Running) — expected: 13.5 - 14.5 Volts. Failure: Voltage consistently above this range may indicate an over-charging alternator, triggering high voltage codes. Voltage below this range indicates a weak battery or charging system issue.
• Transmission Temperature for Quick Learn — expected: Minimum of 60°C (140°F). Failure: Attempting the Quick Learn procedure at a lower temperature may result in it failing or not completing successfully.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH: TCM Reprogramming (Flash) — This is the primary repair step for P0887 as specified by multiple TSBs. It updates the module's software to correct logic errors that falsely trigger the code.
• wiTECH: VIN Verification — This routine, found in the TCM 'Misc Functions' menu, is required after reprogramming the TCM to ensure it is correctly configured for the specific vehicle.
• wiTECH: PROXI Configuration Alignment — This procedure is performed after a module replacement or flash to ensure all vehicle modules (nodes) are communicating correctly on the CAN bus network.
• wiTECH: Quick Learn — After a TCM flash or replacement, this procedure is used to reset and learn the clutch adaptive values. It must be performed after the transmission is warmed to at least 60°C (140°F).
• wiTECH: Reset Adaptive Values — Used before a 'Quick Learn' procedure to clear the old adaptation memory cells from the TCM, especially after a transmission repair or to address poor shift quality.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Battery Ground Strap — The main battery negative cable connects to a ground point on the side of the transmission case.. Earlier models using this platform were known to have a weak, un-insulated ground strap that was prone to corrosion. A poor ground can cause erratic voltage fluctuations and communication errors between modules, potentially triggering P0887.
• TCM Main Connector — The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is located on the front of the transmission assembly. It has a large 74-way harness connector and two smaller 20-way connectors.. This is the primary connection point for all power, ground, and data signals to the TCM. Checking for pushed-back pins, corrosion, or damage here is a critical step if a software flash does not resolve the code.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• jeepcherokeeclub.com user (2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk (KL Platform mate), 94,000 miles) — P0887 code, transmission issues.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The dealership first attempted to apply a software update, as recommended by the TSB.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The dealer confirmed the TCM software was already up-to-date. They replaced the Transmission Control Module (TCM), which resolved the problem.
• YouTube user comment/video description (2013 Chrysler 200 (previous generation, but similar electrical issue)) — Intermittent no-start, no-crank condition.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial diagnosis pointed towards potential ignition switch or starter issues.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner added an additional 4-gauge ground wire from the battery negative terminal to a bolt on the transmission case. This resolved the electrical issue, which was caused by a corroded or insufficient factory ground.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• While a software flash is the most common fix, there are documented cases where it is not the solution. In a notable instance involving a 2014 Jeep Cherokee (platform mate), the dealership confirmed the TCM software was already current. The P0887 code was only resolved after replacing the entire Transmission Control Module, indicating an internal hardware failure of the module itself. This confirms that while starting with a software check is correct, it is not a guaranteed fix, and module failure is the next logical diagnostic step.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68225514AB → 68294441AA — Part revision or update by the manufacturer.
  Heads up: Part 68225514AB is listed for the 2015 Chrysler 200. Part 68294441AA is listed as the replacement, but verification with a VIN at a dealership is critical before ordering to ensure compatibility.
• 5150742AC → 68225514AA — Part revision or update by the manufacturer.
  Heads up: An older part number that was replaced by 68225514AA.