Error Code P0218 – Transmission Overheating, Causes and How to Fix

What is error code P0218?

The P0218 code means that the transmission control module (TCM) has detected that the automatic transmission is overheating. This code indicates that the ATF (automatic transmission fluid) temperature has exceeded the acceptable level, which can cause transmission damage, poor shifting, and other problems.

The P0218 code is related exclusively to the automatic transmission system. It does not directly affect the engine, but it can seriously affect the car's performance on the road.

Ignoring this error can lead to serious consequences, including transmission failure. It can also create a hazard on the road, especially on long trips or under high load conditions.

Meaning and decoding of error code P0218 📊

P0218 – Over Temperature Condition (Overheating Condition)

This code means that the control system has detected that the transmission fluid temperature is too high. Typically, this occurs when the ATF temperature exceeds 120–130°C (248–266°F), depending on the vehicle model.

The P0218 code is most commonly found in vehicles with an active ATF temperature control system, such as:

• Chrysler
• Dodge
• Jeep
• Ford
• GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac)

Table: Error code decoding

Code	Description	Possible problems
P0218	Automatic transmission overheating	Difficulty shifting, breakage of seal, loss of ATF

Symptoms of Error Code P0218 🚨 (How to Know There's a Problem?)

• The error goes away after the car cools down.
• Fail-safe mode
• Yellow Check Engine Light
• Jerks and shocks when shifting gears
• Deterioration of the overall dynamics of the car

💡 Important! If the illuminated code P0218 is accompanied by the speed and force limitation mode, you must immediately stop driving.

Main causes of error code P0218 ⚠

• Low ATF
• Dirty or old transmission fluid
• Faulty ATF temperature sensor
• Clogged radiator or faulty cooling fan
• Heavy load and uphill movement in the heat

Table: Possible causes and diagnostic methods

Possible reason	How to check?
Low ATF	Use the dipstick when the engine is warm.
Old/contaminated ATF	Assess the color and smell of the liquid
temperature sensor	OBD scanner and parameter check
Radiator/fan	Inspection, cleaning, torsion test

How to Diagnose Error Code P0218? 🛠 (Step-by-Step Guide)

✅ Step 1: Read error codes using an OBD2 scanner.
✅ Step 2: Check the level and condition of the transmission fluid.
✅ Step 3: Inspect the radiator and cooling system fan.
✅ Step 4: Compare the ATF temperature sensor data with the norm.
✅ Step 5: Conduct a test drive and monitor the ATF temperature using a scanner.

🛠 Tools you will need:

• OBD2 scanner
• ATF dipstick
• IR Thermometer or Scanner with Live Data
• Jack and tools to access the radiator

How to Fix Error Code P0218? 🔧 (Troubleshooting)

Simple methods of elimination ✅

• Topping up or replacing ATF with that recommended by the manufacturer
• Cleaning the radiator and ventilation ducts
• Replacing contaminated transmission fluid
• Ensure adequate cooling (remove fairings, check fan)

Deep diagnostics and repair ⚙

• Replacing the ATF temperature sensor
• Flushing the transmission cooling system
• Replacing the transmission heat exchanger (if installed)
• Checking and repairing the transmission control unit

Table: Solution to the problem by symptoms 📌

Symptom	Possible Solution
Overheating when driving in traffic jams	Checking the fan and radiator
Jerks when shifting	ATF replacement, pressure measurement
Error returns after reset	Temperature sensor diagnostics
The liquid is dark or has a burning smell.	Complete replacement of transmission fluid

How to check error code P0218? 🎥 (Video tutorial)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓

Is it okay to drive with a P0218 error code?

No, driving a vehicle with a P0218 code can cause serious damage to the automatic transmission due to overheating.

What happens if you ignore the P0218 code?

Ignoring it can lead to transmission overheating, clutch failure, ATF leakage and costly automatic transmission repairs.

Is it possible to reset the P0218 error code yourself?

Yes, with an OBD2 scanner or by temporarily disconnecting the battery. However, without eliminating the cause, the error will return.

What fluid should I use when replacing ATF?

Use only the fluid recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, as indicated in the service booklet or on the ATF dipstick.

Do I need to change the radiator if I have a P0218 error?

Not always. Sometimes it is enough to clean it or replace the faulty fan. But if the radiator is clogged or damaged, replacement is mandatory.

Error code P0218 in different cars 🚘

P0218 в Jeep Grand Cherokee

Transmission overheating is common when towing. An external ATF cooler must be installed when using a trailer.

P0218 в Chrysler 300

The error may be accompanied by unstable operation of the gearbox. The temperature sensor needs to be replaced.

P0218 в Ford Explorer

The error may be activated when driving in hot weather. Installing an additional transmission cooling fan helps.

P0218 в Chevrolet Tahoe

The problem is often caused by old ATF. It is recommended not only to replace it, but also to flush the system.

P0218 в Dodge RAM

Common in heavy-duty versions. Often requires installation of an additional radiator and reinforced ATF+4 fluid.

Related OBD2 Errors 🔗

P0711 – Incorrect transmission fluid temperature value

Description: Incorrect readings from the ATF temperature sensor.
Possible reasons:

• Temperature sensor malfunction
• Wiring fault
• Error in the transmission ECU

P0741 – Torque converter lock-up clutch failure

Description: The torque converter lock-up system is not working correctly.
Possible reasons:

• Problems in the lock solenoid
• Clogged fluid channels
• Damage to the torque converter

P1783 – Transmission overheating

Description: The liquid temperature has exceeded the critical level.
Possible reasons:

• Car overload
• Dirty radiator
• ATF deficiency

Conclusion (What to do if you have a P0218 error code?) ✅

📌 Short summary:
Error P0218 indicates that the automatic transmission is overheating. Ignoring this problem can lead to serious repairs. It is important to promptly diagnose and eliminate the cause.

🚀 Helpful advice:
If you frequently tow a trailer or drive in hot climates, consider installing an additional transmission cooler. This will reduce the risk of overheating and extend the life of the automatic transmission.