What Is the P0218 Code?
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The P0218 code indicates a problem with the transmission fluid temperature. Specifically, it indicates that Sensor A, whatever that means for your vehicle, has read an excess transmission temperature. Every vehicle will have its own manufacturer-set guidelines for transmission fluid temperature, and the P0218 code indicates that your Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) is showing a temperature high enough to be potentially dangerous.
More About Error Code P0218
The P0218 fault code indicates an incorrect transmission fluid temperature sensor reading. Rather than indicating that sensor readings are invalid, as some OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes do, the PCM sets this code when it receives a sensor reading that is too hot for its predetermined needs. Unless there is a sensor reading error, this code likely indicates an actual heating problem for the transmission fluid.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0218 Code?
Outside of an illuminated check engine light, issues with the transmission operation are the most common symptoms of the P0218 code. This may include a slipping transmission, hard shifting problems, or even a refusal to shift entirely. The worse the problem becomes, the more likely it will be that your vehicle will be unable to function. Some vehicles also have a fail-safe mode that triggers when there’s a transmission problem. This may shut your vehicle off entirely until you fix the problem.
What Are Some Causes of a P0218 Code?
There are many possible causes of DTC P0218. Sometimes, it can be due to simply pushing the vehicle too hard. Excessive towing uphill or exceeding your maximum towing capabilities, for example, can result in a P0218 code, as can other situations with an overheating vehicle. Debris in the transmission cooler, low fluid levels, or contaminated transmission fluid can cause the P0218 code. If there are issues with the engine cooling system, such as an inoperative cooling fan, a fluid leak, or a restricted radiator, you can see overheating throughout the vehicle. A general failure of the internal transmission or torque converter can also result in this code, along with many others. Finally, sometimes the problem is that the transmission fluid temperature sensor failure is broken, so the transmission fluid is not actually overheating.
How Serious Is the P0218 Code?
Code P0218 is extremely serious. The vehicle will often shut down completely when this code is logged because overheated transmission fluid often happens due to severe internal transmission damage. This code is usually the result of a serious transmission problem. If you see the P0218 code, even if you don’t feel like you’re experiencing many drivability problems, you should still get an expert to check it out to avoid internal damage from a bad transmission.
Can I Still Drive with a P0218 Code?
It depends on your vehicle’s response to the code. In some cases, you cannot drive with the P0218 code active. Your vehicle may completely shut down in some cases or enter Limp Home mode, also called Limp Mode, where it will restrict how fast it can go and what systems are active. Regardless of whether you can physically drive your vehicle, you should still avoid driving it if possible. The more you drive it, the more likely it is that whatever problem is causing the transmission fluid overheating will create serious engine problems.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0218 Code?
The diagnosis for a P0218 code can be surprisingly difficult. This is because the problem can exist in many systems within the vehicle. It could be an overloaded towing capacity, your transmission fluid’s ability to circulate through the vehicle, the engine cooling system, or even a problem with the transmission itself. You need fairly extensive knowledge of your vehicle to know what issues you should check for and the repair steps necessary. An expert will have this information and be able to diagnose the code for you.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0218 Code?
The inspection process can also be difficult for a P0218 code, partially because you must inspect many different systems. You also need to know which systems to examine first and what to look for. If you don’t know this information, you might spend a lot of time examining parts of your system that you never needed to examine in the first place. It is best to leave the inspection process to an expert, especially due to the potential severity of this problem.
Need Additional Help with Your P0218 Code?
Many people will need extra help with the P0218 code. It’s a very serious code with many potential causes, and an expert can help you solve the underlying problem.
First, you should find an auto repair shop in your area. This will help you avoid taking the vehicle further than necessary, which can be dangerous or incur more costs if you require a tow truck.
You should also check the OBD-II database at KBB.com. This error code often comes with other codes on your code reader, and this database will help you get a fuller picture of what’s happening in your vehicle.
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