AutoCodes – Generic – P0218

P0218 Code - Transmission Fluid Overtemperature

Quick Answer

The flow of transmission fluid starts in the bottom pan and is drawn through the filter, control valve body assembly, transmission case, and into the oil pump assembly. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Transmission cooling system concerns. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0218 indicates Transmission Fluid Overtemperature.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Transmission cooling system concerns.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 26,352

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 09, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0218 Description

The flow of transmission fluid starts in the bottom pan and is drawn through the filter, control valve body assembly, transmission case, and into the oil pump assembly. The oil pump assembly pressurizes the fluid and directs it to the pressure regulator valve where it becomes the main supply of fluid to the various components and hydraulic circuits in the transmission. Hot fluid exiting the torque converter flows through the converter clutch apply valve and into the transmission cooler lines to the oil cooler located in the vehicle radiator (and auxiliary cooler if equipped). From the cooler, fluid returns to cool and lubricate the front of the transmission. In forward drive ranges, D4 fluid from the manual valve is routed through an orifice cup plug in the rear of the transmission case to feed the rear lube fluid circuit. When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a high Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) for a long period of time, then code P0218 will set.

OBDII Code P0218 - Transmission Fluid Overtemperature - AutoCodes.com — P0218 Code - Transmission Fluid Overtemperature

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0218?

Low transmission fluid level
Transmission cooling system concerns

How to Fix the DTC P0218?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0218 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0218 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0218 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0218 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0218 Buick — Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
P0218 Cadillac — Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
P0218 Chevrolet — Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
P0218 Chrysler — High Temperature Operation Activated
P0218 Dodge — High Temperature Operation Activated
P0218 Ford — Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition
P0218 GMC — Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
P0218 Isuzu — Transmission Condition Over Temperature
P0218 Jeep — High Temperature Operation Activated
P0218 Mercedes-Benz — Transmission Over Temperature
P0218 Mitsubishi — High Temperature Operation Activated
P0218 Pontiac — Transmission Fluid Overtemperature
P0218 RAM — High Temperature Operation Activated
P0218 Saturn — Transmission Fluid Overtemperature

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.