P0887 on 2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee: TCM Power Circuit High Causes & Fixes

What's Unique About the 2014-2015 Jeep GRAND CHEROKEE

The 2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2 generation) uses a sophisticated electronically controlled 8-speed transmission (845RE or 8HP70). For this platform, Chrysler issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) acknowledging that code P0887 could be set due to software anomalies, not necessarily a hardware fault. [TSB #21-033-15, TSB #21-016-15 REV-B] The manufacturer's primary recommended solution is reprogramming the TCM with updated software to improve diagnostic accuracy and prevent false codes. [TSB #21-033-15] This is critical because the TCM's power relay is internal, making a simple relay swap impossible.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Symptoms You May Notice

• "Service Transmission" warning light on the dashboard.
🎬 Watch: Understanding the 'Service Transmission' warning and common solutions.
• Vehicle enters "limp mode," often getting stuck in a single gear.
• Check Engine Light is on.
• Harsh, erratic, or delayed shifting.
• Engine revs high between shifts.
• Unresponsive accelerator pedal.
• Malfunctioning speedometer or other instrument cluster warnings (ABS, Traction Control).

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly Chrysler has released multiple TSBs for the 2014-2015 Grand Cherokee specifically to update TCM software to improve diagnostics for P0887, indicating this is a well-known issue. [TSB #21-033-15, TSB #21-016-15 REV-B] These updates are designed to correct software logic that may falsely interpret voltage readings as high.
   How to confirm: A Jeep dealership or a qualified shop with a wiTECH scan tool can check the current software calibration ID and see if a newer version is available per the TSBs.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming (flashing) the TCM with the latest software. This must be done with a dealer-level scan tool while maintaining a stable battery voltage (between 13.2 and 13.5 volts) to prevent bricking the module.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM) 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly If a software update does not fix the issue, the internal power control circuitry of the TCM itself may have failed. The power relay is integrated into the TCM and cannot be replaced separately. The TCM is located inside the vehicle, under the center console, where it is generally protected but can still fail electronically.
   How to confirm: This is typically diagnosed by exclusion. If the software is up-to-date and all wiring/power inputs are confirmed to be good, the TCM is the likely culprit.
   Typical fix: Replacement of the Transmission Control Module, followed by programming it to the vehicle using a tool like wiTECH.
   Est. part cost: $400-$800
3. Wiring or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability While less common than software issues, wiring problems can still occur. The main TCM connector, fuses, and grounds can become corroded or loose, leading to voltage irregularities. The fuse box in the engine bay contains several fuses related to the TCM (e.g., F60) that should be inspected.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness going to the TCM for any signs of damage, melting, or corrosion. Check relevant fuses in the engine bay fuse box. Test for proper voltage and ground at the TCM connector using a multimeter and a wiring diagram.
   Typical fix: Repairing the damaged section of the wiring harness or cleaning/replacing the connector or fuses.
   Est. part cost: $20-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Alternator: An alternator that is overcharging the electrical system can create voltage spikes that trigger a P0887 code. This should be suspected if system voltage is consistently reading high (e.g., over 15 volts) during operation.
• Weak Battery or Poor Ground Connection: → Shop Vehicle Battery While the code indicates high voltage, a weak or failing battery can cause erratic voltage fluctuations throughout the vehicle's electrical system, sometimes leading to unexpected codes. TSBs for flashing procedures specifically warn to maintain stable battery voltage between 13.2 and 13.5 volts, highlighting the system's sensitivity.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for any available Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to P0887 for your vehicle's VIN. This is the most critical first step.
2. Using a professional scan tool (like wiTECH), check the current software version of the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
3. If an update is available, perform the TCM flash procedure according to the TSB. 🎬 See how a professional technician programs the TCM for code P0887. Ensure a stable power supply (battery charger) is connected to the vehicle, maintaining 13.2-13.5 volts.
4. After flashing, perform the 'PROXI Configuration Alignment', 'VIN Verification', and 'Quick Learn' procedures using the scan tool as directed by the TSB.
5. Clear all DTCs and perform a test drive to see if the code returns.
6. If the code returns after the flash, or if the software is already up-to-date, check the vehicle's charging system voltage. Ensure the alternator is not overcharging (voltage should typically be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when running).
7. Inspect the relevant TCM fuses in the engine bay fuse box, specifically Fuse #60 for 2014+ models.
🎬 Watch: How to locate and check your TCM fuse and relay.
8. Inspect the wiring harness and connector at the TCM for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose pins. The TCM is located under the center console.
9. Using a multimeter and a wiring diagram, verify that the TCM is receiving the correct power and ground signals at its connector. Voltage should match charging system voltage and not be excessively high.
10. If all wiring, power, and grounds are good and the software is current, the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is likely faulty and requires replacement.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software Update — This is the most common and manufacturer-recommended first step to resolve the P0887 code, as documented in multiple TSBs.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (dealership service)
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) (OEM #68347574AA (supersedes 05150913AC, 68259190AB, etc. Always verify with VIN)) — If a software update does not fix the problem, the internal circuitry of the module itself has likely failed.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $550-$800
  Aftermarket price range: $400-$600

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P1634 — This code for 'TCM Internal Internal Watchdog Performance' is listed alongside P0887 in TSB #21-016-15 REV-B, suggesting they can be triggered by the same underlying TCM software or hardware issues.
• P061B — This code for 'Internal Control Module Torque Calculation Performance' is also mentioned with P0887 in TSB #21-016-15 REV-B, pointing to a related fault within the TCM's processing.
• P0711 — TSB #21-033-15 lists this code for 'Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range-Performance' as another code whose diagnostics are improved by a TCM software update, indicating it may appear with P0887.
• U0401 — This code for 'Implausible Data Received From ECM/PCM' is frequently mentioned in the same TSBs as P0887, indicating a software-based communication breakdown between the engine and transmission modules.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-016-15 REV-B: Mentions P0887 - TCM Power Control Circuit High as a code that may be found and addressed by a software update for shift and drivability enhancements.
• 21-033-15: States that a software update will improve diagnostics for P0887 - TCM Power Control Circuit High, among other codes.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Jeep issued TSB #21-016-15 REV-B and #21-033-15 for 2014-2015 Grand Cherokees, which specifically mention code P0887 and involve updating TCM software to improve diagnostics and prevent the code from being set incorrectly.
• The TCM power relay is internal to the module, meaning a simple, cheap relay replacement is not an option for this code.
• A YouTube video by 'JVFIX' documents the process of flashing a 2016 Grand Cherokee for P0887, confirming that even when a dealer claims recalls are done, a flash may still be needed and can resolve the issue.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Alternator output voltage at battery terminals (engine running) — expected: 13.5V - 14.5V. Failure: Voltage consistently above 14.5V may indicate an overcharging condition, triggering P0887.
• Battery voltage during TCM flash procedure — expected: Stable between 13.2V and 13.5V. Failure: Voltage dropping below 13.2V or climbing above 13.5V can interrupt the flash and potentially damage the module.
• Resistance of the Transmission Control circuit — expected: Approximately 5.0 ohms. Failure: A reading significantly less than 5.0 ohms suggests a short to ground in the circuit.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• P0887-00: TCM Power Control Circuit High. The '-00' is a symptom byte visible on dealer-level scan tools that provides additional diagnostic information, though in this case it is the standard identifier for this fault. (see via wiTECH or other advanced, OEM-capable scan tools.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH: TCM Reprogramming (Flash) — This is the primary repair step outlined in TSBs to correct software logic that may falsely set P0887.
• wiTECH: PROXI Configuration Alignment — After reprogramming the TCM, this function must be run to ensure the new module software is properly communicating with all other vehicle modules on the CAN bus.
• wiTECH: VIN Verification — A required step after flashing the TCM to write and confirm the vehicle's VIN to the module, located in the 'Misc Functions' menu.
• wiTECH: Quick Learn — After a flash clears transmission adaptive values, this procedure must be performed to reset and re-learn the clutch fill times and pressures, ensuring proper shift quality.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Fuse F60 — In the main fuse box (Power Distribution Center) in the engine bay.. This is a primary fuse supplying power to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) on 2014 and newer Grand Cherokee models.
• TCM Connector — At the Transmission Control Module, located inside the vehicle under the center console/dash area.. This is the main connection point for testing power and ground signals directly at the module to confirm if high voltage is present before condemning the TCM.
• G108 (Reference from similar platform) — On older WJ Grand Cherokees, this ground is on the passenger side inner fender, behind the power distribution block.. On the reference platform, this ground serves the TCM and BCM. While the exact identifier may differ on the WK2, checking grounds on the inner fenders, particularly on the passenger side, is a critical step if a wiring issue is suspected.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube channel 'JVFIX LLC' (2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport) — Poor shifting, engine revving high between shifts, P0887 code stored.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Owner took the vehicle to a Jeep dealership, who stated that all recalls and software updates had already been performed.
  ✅ What actually fixed it A technician used an Autel MaxiFlash tool to independently check for software updates and discovered a TCM flash was still available. Performing the TCM reflash procedure successfully resolved the shifting issues and the P0887 code.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 05150913AC, 68259190AA, 68259190AB, 68293698AA, and others → 68347574AA — Standard part evolution for hardware and software compatibility improvements.
  Heads up: Always verify the correct part number with the vehicle's VIN before ordering, as multiple revisions exist. The latest part number is generally recommended.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2014-2015: The engine bay fuse box layout for 2014+ models is different from the 2011-2013 models. For the 2014-2015 range, the TCM power is supplied by fuse F60.