AutoCodes – Ford – P0218 2009 Ford Fusion

P0218 2009 Ford Fusion Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition

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 2009 Ford Fusion indicates Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition.
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 2,072

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 2009 Ford Fusion 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 2009 Ford Fusion - Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition - AutoCodes.com — P0218 2009 Ford Fusion Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0218 2009 Ford Fusion?

Low transmission fluid level
Transmission cooling system concerns

How to Fix the DTC P0218 2009 Ford Fusion?

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 2009 Ford Fusion 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.

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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 2009 Ford Fusion Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0218 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

- Common symptoms include the transmission overheating warning light coming on, transmission slipping, and possible shift delay or harsh shifting.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0218 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

- Possible causes include low transmission fluid levels, a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, a malfunctioning transmission control module, or a clogged transmission fluid cooler.

3. How serious is OBDII code P0218 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

- This code indicates an over temperature condition in the transmission fluid, which can lead to severe damage if not addressed promptly. It is important to address this issue to prevent further damage to the transmission.

4. What should I do if I get OBDII code P0218 in my 2009 Ford Fusion?

- If you get this code, it is recommended to check the transmission fluid level and condition first. If the fluid level is low or the fluid appears burnt, it should be addressed immediately. It is also advisable to have the transmission temperature sensor and transmission control module checked.

5. Can I continue driving my 2009 Ford Fusion with OBDII code P0218?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code, as it indicates an overheating condition in the transmission fluid. Continuing to drive the vehicle in this state can cause further damage to the transmission.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0218 in my 2009 Ford Fusion?

- Repairing this code may involve topping up or changing the transmission fluid, replacing the transmission fluid temperature sensor, cleaning or replacing the transmission fluid cooler, or addressing any issues with the transmission control module.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0218 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the specific repairs needed. Costs may range from a simple fluid top-up to more complex sensor or module replacements, so it is best to consult with a mechanic for an accurate estimate.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code P0218 in my 2009 Ford Fusion make the problem go away?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the over temperature condition in the transmission fluid. It is important to identify and address the root cause of the problem.

9. How often should I check the transmission fluid in my 2009 Ford Fusion to prevent OBDII code P0218?

- It is recommended to check the transmission fluid level and condition regularly as part of routine maintenance. Checking the fluid every few months or during oil changes can help prevent issues like OBDII code P0218 from occurring.

10. Can extreme weather conditions contribute to triggering OBDII code P0218 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

- Yes, extreme weather conditions such as high temperatures or towing heavy loads in hot weather can lead to the transmission fluid overheating, potentially triggering OBDII code P0218. Taking precautions in extreme conditions can help prevent this issue.