P0218

DTC P0218

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 up, the sensor resistance becomes lower. The PCM uses TFT information to control torque converter clutch apply and release, line pressure, and shift time. The TFT range is from -40 to +151°C (-40 to +305°F).

If the PCM detects a high transmission fluid temperature for an extended period of time on the TFT sensor circuit, then DTC P0218 sets. DTC P0218 is a type C DTC.

Conditions for Running the DTC
The transmission fluid temperature is -38 to +143°C (-36 to +289°F) for greater or equal to 5 seconds.

Conditions for Setting the DTC
The transmission fluid temperature is greater than or equal to 133°C (270°F) for at least 10 minutes.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets
^ The PCM does not illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).
^ TRANSMISSION HOT 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 Failure Records.
^ The PCM stores DTC P0218 in PCM history.

Conditions for Clearing the DIC/DTC
^ The PCM clears the DIC message when the condition no longer exists.
^ The transmission fluid temperature is less than 130°C (266°F) for 5 seconds.
^ 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
^ Verify the driving habits of the customer, such as trailer towing, etc.
^ The scan tool Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) should rise steadily during warm-up cycles then stabilize.

Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table:
2. DTC P0218 may set approximately 600 seconds (10 minutes) after DTC P0711 has set. Follow the diagnostic table for DTC P0711 before proceeding to the diagnostic table for DTC P0218. Repair of the condition that set DTC P0711 will likely eliminate DTC P0218.
3. This step ensures that the transmission fluid is at the proper level. A low fluid level may cause an overtemperature condition.
4. This step inspects for air restrictions and loss of transmission fluid flow causing an extremely high TFT.

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DTC P0218