4T80-E - Automatic Transaxle
DTC P0218
Diagnostic Instructions
* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* ReviewStrategy Based Diagnosis (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) provides an overview of each diagnostic category.
DTC Descriptor
DTC P0218
- Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
Circuit/System 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.
Conditions for Running the DTC
* The ignition voltage is between 8 and 18 volts.
* The transmission fluid temperature (TFT) is between -39 to +149°C (-38 to +300°F) for 5 seconds.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The TFT is greater than 140°C (286°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.
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
Automatic Transmission Controls Schematics (Electrical Diagrams)
Connector End View Reference
Component Connector End Views (Connector Views)
Description and operation
Transmission General Description (Transmission General Description)
Electrical Information Reference
* Circuit Testing (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Connector Repairs (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Wiring Repairs (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
DTC Type Reference
Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions (Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions)
Scan Tool Reference
Control Module References (Programming and Relearning)
Special Tools
* J 35616 GM-Approved Terminal Test Kit
* J 44152 Jumper Harness (20 pins)
Circuit/System Verification
Ensure that the transmission fluid level is at the proper level by performing theTransmission Fluid Check (4T80-E Automatic Transaxle).
Circuit/System Testing
1. Perform theTransmission Fluid Check (4T80-E Automatic Transaxle).
• If the level is not within specifications, repair as necessary.
2. Inspect for the following conditions:
* Transmission line pressure low. Refer to Line Pressure Check (Line Pressure Check Procedure).
* Transmission fluid flow through cooler and/or auxiliary cooler, if equipped, is restricted due to the following conditions:
- Transmission fluid level low
- A clogged filter
- A leaking filter or seal
- Plugged, kinked, or damaged transmission cooler pipes
- Refer to Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test (J 45096) (Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler Flushing and Flow Test (J 45096))Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test (J 35944-A) (Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler Flushing and Flow Test (J 35944-A)).
* Air flow through transmission fluid cooler and/or auxiliary cooler, if equipped, is restricted due to the following conditions:
- Damaged fins
- Debris
* Engine overheating due to the following conditions:
- Low coolant level
- Inspect coolant temperature, coolant level, and hoses
- Restricted air flow
- Restricted coolant flow
- Refer to Engine Overheating (Engine Overheating).
Repair Instructions
Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification (Verification Tests) after completing the repair.
* Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for TCM replacement, setup, and programming.
* Temperature Sensor, Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Valve, and Pressure Control Solenoid Valve Assemble (Overhaul)