AutoCodesChevrolet – P0218 Chevrolet

P0218 Chevrolet Code - Transmission Fluid Overtemperature

Quick Answer

The Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor is a 2-wire sensor located in the pressure switch manifold. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Obstructions to the airflow to the radiator or transmission, Radiator damage. 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 Chevrolet indicates Transmission Fluid Overtemperature.
Common causes
Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Obstructions to the airflow to the radiator or transmission, Radiator damage.
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 13,434
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 09, 2022
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Code P0218 Chevrolet Description

The Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor is a 2-wire sensor located in the pressure switch manifold. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) supplies the transmission fluid temperature sensor signal circuit and a low reference circuit. The resistance of the transmission fluid temperature sensor decreases as the oil temperature increases. The TCM monitors the voltage drop across the transmission fluid temperature sensor and calculates the temperature of the transmission fluid in the sump. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the transmission sump temperature is 122°C (251°F) or greater for 10 s.
OBDII Code P0218 Chevrolet - Transmission Fluid Overtemperature - AutoCodes.com
P0218 Chevrolet Code - Transmission Fluid Overtemperature

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0218 Chevrolet?

  • Low transmission fluid level
  • Obstructions to the airflow to the radiator or transmission
  • Radiator damage
  • Transmission cooling system concerns

How to Fix the DTC P0218 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

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 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0218 (Transmission Fluid Overtemperature) in a Chevrolet?

- Common symptoms include illuminated Check Engine light, transmission overheating warning, harsh shifting, and decreased fuel efficiency.

2. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P0218 in a Chevrolet related to transmission fluid overtemperature?

- Causes may include low transmission fluid levels, a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, a malfunctioning transmission fluid pump, or a clogged transmission fluid cooler.

3. How serious is OBDII code P0218 (Transmission Fluid Overtemperature) in a Chevrolet?

- This code should be addressed promptly to prevent potential damage to the transmission system, as overheating can lead to premature wear and failure of transmission components.

4. Can driving with OBDII code P0218 in a Chevrolet cause more damage?

- Driving with this code present can exacerbate transmission issues and should be avoided to prevent further damage to the transmission system.

5. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0218 in a Chevrolet?

- A diagnostic scan tool can be used to retrieve the code, and further testing may be needed to identify the specific cause, such as checking transmission fluid levels and inspecting related components.

6. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code P0218 in a Chevrolet?

- Repair tips may include checking and replenishing transmission fluid levels, replacing a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, inspecting and cleaning the transmission fluid cooler, or addressing any other identified issues causing overheating.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code P0218 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code present, as ignoring transmission fluid overheating can lead to severe transmission damage and costly repairs.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0218 in a Chevrolet?

- The cost of repairs for this code can vary depending on the specific cause, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, especially if major transmission components need to be replaced.

9. Can I reset the Check Engine light after addressing OBDII code P0218 in a Chevrolet?

- Once the underlying issue causing the code is resolved, the Check Engine light can be reset using a diagnostic scan tool to clear the code and turn off the warning light.

10. Are there any preventive measures I can take to avoid OBDII code P0218 in my Chevrolet?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking and changing transmission fluid at recommended intervals, ensuring proper cooling system function, and promptly addressing any transmission-related issues, can help prevent the occurrence of code P0218.

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