OBD-II fault code

P0892: TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit Intermittent

What it means

The sense feedback from the TCM power relay drops out intermittently. Loose connector or oxidised relay contact.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

The TCM power relay feeds the transmission control module, while the relay sense circuit confirms that the supply is reaching it. P0892 sets when that feedback cuts in and out, often because a connector is loose, relay contacts are oxidised, or vibration interrupts the connection.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Connector not seated
  2. Relay contact oxidised
  3. Connector with intermittent contact under vibration

Symptoms

  • Transmission warning light or check-engine light may be on
  • Intermittent or abnormal shifting

How to diagnose it

  1. Save freeze-frame data and check for other relay or TCM supply codes to identify when the feedback dropped out.
  2. Inspect and reseat the TCM power relay and its connectors, looking for loose pins, corrosion, or contamination.
  3. Check the relay contacts and socket for oxidation or heat damage that could interrupt power.
  4. Inspect the sense-circuit wiring for chafing or a loose terminal, and gently move the harness while monitoring the scan-tool reading for dropouts.
  5. If the wiring and relay remain stable, compare relay supply and sense signals with the manufacturer's specification and check TCM power and ground connections.

Common fixes

  • Fully seat a loose relay or connector and secure the harness.
  • Clean corroded terminals where appropriate, or replace damaged connectors.
  • Replace a relay with oxidised or intermittent contacts.
  • Repair an intermittent sense-circuit wire or terminal.

Can I keep driving?

If shifting becomes abnormal or the transmission enters limited operation, avoid high-speed driving and heavy loads; an intermittent power feed can cause the transmission to lose normal control unexpectedly. Stop driving if the vehicle loses drive or cannot shift safely.

A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together

This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.

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