P0218
DTC P0218
Diagnostic Instructions
* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.
DTC Descriptor
DTC P0218
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Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
Circuit/System Description
The primary source of heat in the transmission is the torque converter. Hot oil exits the torque converter through the torque converter clutch (TCC) control valve and flows to the transmission cooler supply line. The supply line connects to the cooler, which is in the radiator. From the cooler, the oil returns through the oil cooler return line and enters the lubrication circuits. After lubricating the internal components, the oil returns to the oil pan. The transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor is located in the control solenoid valve assembly which has no serviceable parts.
Conditions for Running the DTC
* Ignition voltage is 8.6 volts or greater.
* The TFT is -39 to +149°C (-38 to +300°F) for 5 seconds.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The TFT is greater than 140°C (284°F) for 1 minute.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
DTC P0218 is a Type C DTC.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
DTC P0218 is a Type C DTC.
Diagnostic Aids
The driver information center (DIC), if equipped, will display 'TRANSMISSION HOT- Idle Engine' when the transmission fluid temperature reaches 132°C (270°F). The Transmission Fluid Temperature parameter on the scan tool should rise steadily to a normal operating temperature, and then stabilize. Ask about the customer's driving habits, trailer towing, etc. Trailer towing should occur in D4. Ensure the engine cooling system is functioning normally.
Reference Information
Description and Operation
* Transmission General Description Transmission General Description
* Transmission Indicators and Messages Transmission Indicators and Messages
DTC Type Reference
Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions
Circuit/System Verification
1. Review the Failure Records when the DTC set. Verify the engine coolant temperature was less than 125°C (257°F).
• If greater than the specified value
Refer to Engine Overheating Engine Overheating.
• If less than the specified value
2. Inspect the transmission cooling system for restrictions or damage.
• If restricted or damage
Repair as necessary.
• If not restrictions or damage
3. Verify transmission fluid level and condition. Refer to Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check.
• If the fluid level or condition is not correct
Repair as necessary.
• If the fluid level and condition is correct
4. Verify correct transmission oil cooler flow. Refer to Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test.
• If the transmission oil cooler flow is not correct
Repair as necessary.
• If the transmission oil cooler flow is correct
5. Verify correct transmission line pressures. Refer to Line Pressure Check Line Pressure Check.
• If the transmission line pressures are not correct
Repair as necessary.
• If the transmission line pressures are correct
6. After performing the above steps, verify that the DTC does not reset by operating the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that you observed from the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data. If the vehicle passes the Circuit/System Verification procedure then, refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections.
Repair Instructions
* Perform the Reset Transmission Adapts Reset Procedure following all transmission related repairs.
* Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification Verification Tests after completing the repair.