P0888 on Dodge: How to Diagnose & Fix
TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit
1 Dodge model · 1 documented issue · $200-$800 repair
P0888 on Dodge by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 42RE (4-speed) and 45RFE/545RFE (5-speed) automatic transmissions in the Dakota suffer from overdrive solenoid failures. The overdrive solenoid sticks or fails electrically, preventing the transmission from engaging overdrive or causing it to drop out of overdrive unexpectedly. This increases highway fuel consumption and engine RPM. The issue is exacerbated by old, contaminated transmission fluid.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission will not shift into overdrive
- Overdrive drops out at highway speeds
- Higher than normal RPM at highway cruising speed
- Check engine light with overdrive codes
- Increased fuel consumption on highway
How to Fix
Replace the overdrive solenoid and governor pressure solenoid as a pair — they are accessed by dropping the transmission pan and valve body. Use Mopar ATF+4 (68218058AC) exclusively. For the 42RE, the solenoid pack is inexpensive ($40-$80) but labor is 2-3 hours. For the 45RFE/545RFE, replace the entire solenoid block assembly. Regular fluid changes every 30,000 miles help prevent recurrence.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Crown 52118500AB transmission overdrive solenoid
Overdrive-solenoid replacement only after diagnosis confirms this component Fitment: Manufacturer application lists 2000-2003 Dakota with 42RE/46RE; it does not cover 1997-1999 or an RFE transmission Live manufacturer product page when c…
- Remanufactured OE white-connector RFE solenoid block
Replace the whole RFE solenoid block when electrical/hydraulic diagnosis proves the block Fitment: Vendor lists 2004-2010 Dodge Dakota and 2011 Ram Dakota; confirm connector color, transmission family and OE-number interchange Live direc…
- 45RFE/545RFE 4WD sump and cooler-return filter kit
Replace both filters during RFE solenoid-block service Fitment: 4WD 45RFE/545RFE only; 2WD and 42RE/46RE use different filter hardware Live direct US product page with quantity/order control when checked
- Mopar 68218057AC ATF+4 fluid
Approved service fluid after the transmission-specific repair Fitment: Use exact service-fill quantity for the installed transmission and repair state Live Mopar direct product page when checked
Sources for this issue (1)
P0888 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0888 mean on a Dodge?
P0888 stands for "TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit." This code sets when the transmission control module (TCM) detects an incorrect voltage on the power relay sense circuit, which monitors whether the TCM power relay is supplying voltage as expected. If the relay or its sense circuit is faulty, the TCM cannot confirm it is properly powered to control the transmission. Symptoms can include shifting problems, the transmission entering failsafe mode, and a check engine light. The fault usually lies in the power relay, the sense wiring, or related connections. On Dodge it is documented across 1 model: Dakota.
What are the most common causes of P0888?
The most common causes of P0888 are: Faulty TCM power relay, Open, shorted, or corroded sense-circuit wiring, Blown fuse in the power/relay circuit, Poor or loose connector at the relay or TCM, Poor ground connection, Low system voltage, Faulty TCM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0888 on a Dodge?
Published repair estimates on Dodge range from $200 to $800 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0888 on a different make?
View P0888 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.