P0218
DTC P0218 (3.8L)
Circuit Description
Transmission fluid is drawn from the bottom pan through the filter, case assembly, channel plate assembly, control valve body assembly and into the oil pump assembly. The pump is mounted on the control valve body assembly. Fluid pressure leaving the pump is controlled by the pressure regulator valve and becomes the main supply of line pressure to the various components and hydraulic circuits.
Hot fluid from the torque converter flows through the torque converter clutch (TCC) control valve into the cooler lines to the oil cooler located in the vehicle radiator and auxiliary cooler, if equipped. Cool fluid then returns to lubricate the final drive assembly and other components along the output shaft.
When the powertrain control module (PCM) detects high transmission fluid temperature for an extended period of time, then DTC P0218 sets. DTC P0218 is a type C DTC.
DTC Descriptor
This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:
DTC P0218 Transmission Condition Overtemperature
Conditions for Running the DTC
No TFT sensor DTC P0711, P0712 or P0713.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The transmission fluid temperature is 140°C (284°F) or greater for 1 minute.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
* The PCM does not illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).
* TRANS HOT-IDLE ENGINE message displays on the driver information center (DIC).
* The PCM freezes transmission adaptive functions.
* The PCM records the operating conditions when the Conditions for Setting the DTC are met. The PCM stores this information as Freeze Frame Records.
* The PCM stores DTC P0218 in PCM history.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
* A scan tool can clear the DTC.
* The PCM clears the DTC from PCM history if the vehicle completes 40 warm-up cycles without a non-emission related diagnostic fault occurring.
* The PCM cancels the DTC default actions when the fault no longer exists and the DTC passes.
Diagnostic Aids
Ask the customer about possible overloading, exceeding the trailer towing limit, or towing in overdrive.
Test Description
The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.
2. A low fluid level may cause an overtemperature condition.
