P0218

DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0218 TRANSMISSION FLUID OVERTEMPERATURE





Circuit Description
The transmission fluid pump is constantly circulating fluid through the torque converter. Hot fluid leaving the converter flows through the transmission cooler lines to the oil cooler located in the vehicle radiator. From the cooler, fluid returns to the transmission.
Lube 1 fluid flows through the input shaft to lubricate transmission components in the front of the transmission. Lube 2 fluid circuit is fed by line pressure at the pressure regulator valve. This fluid flows through the oil feed pipes and into the forward clutch support. Lube 2 fluid provides lubrication to the rear components of the transmission.
When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a high transmission fluid temperature for a long period of time, then Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0218 sets.

Conditions For Setting The DTC
- Transmission temperature is greater than 130°C (260°F) for 15 minutes.
- No Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor DTCs P0711, P0712 or P0713.

Action Taken When The DTC Sets
- PCM will not illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).
- Freeze shift adapts from being updated.
- DTC P0218 will be stored in PCM memory.

Conditions For Clearing The DTC
- Transmission temperature is less than or equal to 129°C (260°F) for five seconds.
- History DTC(s) can be cleared by using a Scan Tool.
- Check the transmission cooling system.
- Question the owner for the possibility of vehicle overloading, exceeding trailer towing limits or towing in overdrive.

Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic chart.
2. This step checks for possible low fluid level causing high transmission fluid temperatures.
3. This step checks for possible transmission cooling restrictions.
6. This step checks for possible torque converter failure.





DTC P0218 - Transmission Fluid Overtemperature