P0218

Diagnostic Chart:

Wiring Diagram:

Circuit Description
The Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor (TFT) is a thermistor that controls the signal voltage to the PCM. The PCM supplies a 5-volt reference to the sensor on circuit 1227. When the transmission fluid is cold, the sensor resistance is high and the PCM senses high signal voltage. As the fluid temperature warms to a normal transmission operating temperature, the TFT Sensor resistance becomes less and the voltage decreases to 1.5-2.0 volts.

When the PCM detects a high transmission temperature for a long period of time, then DTC P0218 sets. DTC P0218 is a type D DTC.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

^ No TFT Sensor DTCs P0712 or P0713.
^ The TFT is greater than 130°C (277°F).
^ All conditions are met for 900 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

^ The PCM freezes shift adapts from being updated.
^ The PCM does not illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

^ A scan tool can clear the DTC from the PCM history. The PCM clears the DTC from the PCM history if the vehicle completes 40 warm-up cycles without a failure reported.
^ The PCM cancels the DTC default actions when the fault no longer exists and the ignition is OFF long enough in order to power down the PCM

Diagnostic Aids

^ The scan tool TFT Sensor temperature should rise steadily then stabilize.
^ Inspect for a possible torque converter stator problem.
^ Verify the customer's driving habits, such as trailer towing, etc.
^ Inspect the transmission cooler lines for possible kinks or obstructions.
^ First diagnose and clear any engine DTCs or Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor codes that are present. Then inspect for any transmission DTCs that may have reset.

Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

3. This step tests for a skewed sensor or shorted circuit.

4. This step simulates a DTC P0713 Fluid Temperature Sensor CKT High In put.