P0218
DTC P0218
Diagnostic Instructions
* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.
DTC Descriptor
DTC P0218
- Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
Circuit/System Description
The primary source of heat in the transmission is the torque converter. Hot oil exits the torque converter through the torque converter clutch (TCC) control valve and flows to the transmission cooler supply line. The supply line connects to the cooler, which is in the radiator. From the cooler, the oil returns through the oil cooler return line and enters the lubrication circuits. After lubricating the internal components, the oil returns to the oil pan. The transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor is located in the control solenoid valve assembly.
Conditions for Running the DTC
* The ignition voltage is 8.6 volts or greater.
* The TFT is -39 to +149°C (-38 to +300°F) for 5 seconds.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The TFT is 140°C (284°F) or greater 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.
Diagnostic Aids
The driver information center (DIC), if equipped, will display 'TRANSMISSION HOT- Idle Engine' when the TFT reaches 132°C (270°F). The TFT on the scan tool should rise steadily to a normal operating temperature, and then stabilize. Ask about the customer's driving habits, trailer towing, etc. Trailer towing should occur in D4. Ensure the engine cooling system is functioning normally.
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
* Automatic Transmission Controls Schematics Electrical Diagrams
* Park - Engine Running Transmission Internal Mode Switch Logic Park - Engine Running
* Fluid Passages Fluid Passages Fluid Passages
Description and Operation
* Transmission General Description Transmission General Description
* Transmission Indicators and Messages Transmission Indicators and Messages
DTC Type Reference
Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions
Scan Tool Reference
Control Module References Control Module References for scan tool information
Circuit/System Verification
1. Review the Failure Records when the DTC set. Verify the engine coolant temperature is less than 125°C (257°F).
• If greater than the specified range, refer to Engine Overheating.
2. Inspect the transmission cooling system for restrictions or damage.
3. Perform the Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check to verify correct fluid level and condition.
4. Perform the Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test to verify proper transmission oil cooler flow.
5. Perform the Line Pressure Check Line Pressure Check to verify proper transmission line pressure.
6. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC to verify the DTC does not reset. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that you observed from the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data.
Repair Instructions
Note: Perform the Reset Transmission Adapts Programming and Relearning any time a transmission related component is serviced.
Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification Verification Tests after completing the diagnostic procedure.