AutoCodes – Dodge – P0218 Dodge

P0218 Dodge Code - High Temperature Operation Activated

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, Transmission oil cooler plugged. 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 Dodge indicates High Temperature Operation Activated.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Transmission cooling system concerns, Transmission oil cooler plugged.
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 21,627

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
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0218 Dodge 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 orificed cup plug in the rear of the transmission case to feed the rear lube fluid circuit.

OBDII Code P0218 Dodge - High Temperature Operation Activated - AutoCodes.com — P0218 Dodge Code - High Temperature Operation Activated

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0218 Dodge?

Low transmission fluid level
Transmission cooling system concerns
Transmission oil cooler plugged

How to Fix the DTC P0218 Dodge?

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 Dodge 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 Dodge code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0218 Dodge Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0218 in a Dodge vehicle?

- Common symptoms include the engine overheating, the temperature gauge reading higher than normal, and a possible decrease in engine performance.

2. What does the OBDII code P0218 indicate in a Dodge vehicle?

- OBDII code P0218 indicates that the high-temperature operation of the engine has been activated due to a detected high coolant temperature.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0218 in a Dodge vehicle?

- Possible causes include a malfunctioning thermostat, a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, low coolant level, or a problem with the cooling system.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0218 in my Dodge vehicle?

- Diagnosis typically involves checking the coolant level, inspecting the thermostat, testing the engine coolant temperature sensor, and ensuring the cooling system is functioning properly.

5. What are the repair options for OBDII code P0218 in a Dodge vehicle?

- Repair options may include replacing the thermostat, engine coolant temperature sensor, or addressing any issues with the cooling system components.

6. Can I continue driving my Dodge vehicle with OBDII code P0218?

- It is not recommended to continue driving your vehicle with OBDII code P0218 as it can lead to engine damage due to overheating.

7. How can I prevent OBDII code P0218 from occurring in my Dodge vehicle?

- Regular maintenance of the cooling system, including checking coolant levels, replacing the thermostat as needed, and ensuring proper functioning of all cooling system components, can help prevent OBDII code P0218.

8. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code P0218 in my Dodge vehicle without addressing the underlying issue?

- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the problem causing the code will likely persist and could lead to more severe issues if left unresolved.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0218 in a Dodge vehicle?

- Depending on the specific cause, some repairs related to OBDII code P0218, such as replacing the thermostat or engine coolant temperature sensor, can be performed by DIY enthusiasts with the necessary tools and knowledge.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0218 in a Dodge vehicle?

- The repair time for OBDII code P0218 can vary depending on the exact cause and complexity of the issue, but it may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to diagnose and repair the problem.