Theory Of Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 RAM 1500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The purpose of the diagnostic is to monitor the transmitted messages on the CAN BUS and the validity of the CAN signals. The Electronic Shift Module (ESM) performs various internal tests to verify proper controller operation. This DTC indicates there is an issue with the communication with the Transmission Control module (TCM).