P0218

Diagnostic Chart:

Wiring:

Temperature Vs Resistance Table:

Circuit Description

The Automatic Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor is a negative coefficient thermistor. When the transmission fluid is cold, the sensor resistance is high. As the transmission fluid warms, the sensor resistance decreases. The TFT range is -40 to +150°C (-40 to +302°F).

When the PCM detects a high transmission temperature for an extended period of time on the TFT Sensor circuit, then DTC P0218 sets. DTC P0218 is a type D DTC.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

^ No TFT DTCs P0711, P0712 or P0713.

^ The transmission fluid temperature is hotter than 130°C (266°F) for more than 10 minutes.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

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.

Diagnostic Aids

^ Inspect the wiring for poor electrical connections at the PCM. Inspect the wiring at the Automatic Transmission 7-way connector. Look for the following conditions:

- A bent terminal

- A backed out terminal

- A damaged terminal

- Poor terminal tension

- A chafed wire

- A broken wire inside the insulation

^ Test the TFT Sensor at various temperature levels in order to evaluate the possibility of a skewed, mis-scaled or stuck sensor.

^ When diagnosing for an intermittent short or open condition, massage the wiring harness while watching the test equipment for a change.

^ Inspect the transmission cooling system for blockage and restrictions.

Test Description

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

3. This step determines if an electrical condition exists.

5. This step checks the TFT Sensor against the Temperature vs Resistance Table.