Transmission relay is stuck in the off position?

VANDANMAN

MEMBER
2005 DODGE DAKOTA
4.7L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
149,849 MILES

What causes an engine light code saying the transmission relay switch is stuck in the off position? It also locks the transmission into 2nd gear. I replaced the relay and cleared the code. If it does come back again, I would like to know what could be causing it? Thank you

Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 AT 3:33 PM

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
52,298 POSTS

Hello,

Can I ask which code number it is? The transmission control relay is located inside the TIPM which can go out, so this might be the problem. I would swap out the relay, here is the location so you can check it out. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 10:13 AM

VANDANMAN

MEMBER
11 POSTS

Yes it was PO888, swap out worked, and I cleared code. I did not drive far but the engine light did not come back on and is not stuck in 2nd gear anymore. Also noticed transmission fluid was down 3/4 of a quart so I put that in. (It said good for replacing Dextron II or III and works in some fords 96and up, and for dodge pre 06? Never heard of this kind?) Anyway, did not notice any fluid on the driveway. If it trips into the trans relay stuck in the off again code what should I check next that might be causing it?

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Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 1:40 PM

VANDANMAN

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11 POSTS

Thank you.

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Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 1:41 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
52,298 POSTS

It looks like you fixed the problem, if the problem comes back let me know and we can start checking the electrical system.

P0888 - TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit Open

You may have a bad TCM, but we will cross that bridge when we get to it.

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Friday, May 2nd, 2025 AT 9:37 AM

VANDANMAN