Theory Of Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 RAM 1500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The Transmission Control Relay is used to supply power to the solenoids and pressure switches within the Transmission Solenoid/TRS Assembly. When the relay is off, no power is supplied to the Transmission Solenoid/TRS Assembly and the transmission is placed into "limp-in" mode.
Immediately after a controller reset (ignition key turned to the RUN position or after cranking engine), the TCM verifies the relay contacts are open. After this is verified, the voltage at the pressure switches is checked. There should be no voltage at the pressure switches at this time.