P0218
Stop drivingYour transmission is running too hot. The computer has detected an over-temperature condition in the transmission.
Code P0218 means your transmission is overheating. Common causes: Low fluid (40%), clogged cooler (25%), internal failure (20%). Drivability: No, stop driving immediately. Repair cost: $50-$250 DIY, $150-$800 professional.
Can I Drive With P0218?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, burning smell, transmission slipping, vehicle in limp mode
Symptoms of P0218
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Transmission warning light is on
- 3Burning smell (like burnt toast)
- 4Transmission slipping or shifting harshly
- 5Vehicle enters 'limp mode' (reduced power, limited gears)
- 6Fluid leaking from the transmission
Common Causes of P0218
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
Insufficient transmission fluid prevents proper cooling and lubrication, leading to overheating.
40% of P0218 cases are fixed by adding or replacing transmission fluid
Debris or blockages in the transmission cooler or its lines restrict fluid flow, preventing heat dissipation.
25% of P0218 cases are fixed by clearing or replacing the transmission cooler/lines
Worn clutches, torque converter issues, or other internal component failures generate excessive heat.
20% of P0218 cases require internal transmission repair or replacement
A malfunctioning sensor sends incorrect temperature readings to the computer, triggering the code even if the transmission is not actually overheating.
10% of P0218 cases are fixed by replacing the transmission temperature sensor
Exceeding the vehicle's towing capacity or carrying excessive loads puts extreme stress on the transmission, causing it to overheat.
5% of P0218 cases are due to vehicle overloading or heavy towing
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check your transmission fluid level and condition (color, smell). Refer to your owner's manual for the correct procedure and fluid type.
- Visually inspect the transmission cooler and its lines for any leaks, damage, or obstructions (e.g., dirt, leaves, bent fins).
How to Diagnose P0218
- 1Immediately stop driving the vehicle to prevent further damage.
- 2Check the transmission fluid level and condition (color, smell). Refer to your owner's manual for the correct procedure.
- 3Inspect the transmission cooler and lines for any visible damage, leaks, or obstructions.
- 4Use an OBD-II scan tool to check for any other related transmission codes (P07XX series) and monitor live transmission fluid temperature data.
- 5If fluid level and cooler appear fine, test the transmission temperature sensor for proper operation using a multimeter or scan tool.
- 6If all external components check out, internal transmission inspection by a professional is necessary.
P0218 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Commonly seen with heavy towing or hauling, stressing the transmission cooler system. Check fluid level and condition, then inspect the cooler for obstructions or damage.
65% fixed by addressing fluid level or cooler issues
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Similar to the F-150, P0218 on Silverados is often related to heavy use, towing, or neglected fluid changes. Temperature sensor failures are also a factor.
60% fixed by addressing fluid level, cooler, or sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024Less common for P0218, but when it occurs, it's frequently due to neglected transmission fluid changes or a faulty transmission temperature sensor. Internal issues are less common unless fluid maintenance is severely ignored.
50% fixed by addressing fluid level or sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0218 mean?
P0218 indicates that your vehicle's powertrain control module (PCM) has detected that the transmission fluid temperature has exceeded its normal operating range, meaning your transmission is overheating.
Can I drive with P0218?
No, stop driving immediately. Driving with an overheating transmission causes rapid and severe damage to internal components, leading to catastrophic failure and a much more expensive repair.
Will P0218 clear itself?
No, P0218 will not clear itself. An overheating transmission is a critical issue that requires immediate attention and repair. The code will remain until the underlying problem is fixed and the system is reset.
How do I fix P0218 myself?
Start by checking your transmission fluid level and condition. If low, add the correct fluid. Inspect the transmission cooler and lines for blockages or damage. If these basic checks do not resolve the issue, further diagnosis of the temperature sensor or internal components is needed.
How much does it cost to fix P0218?
DIY costs range from $50-$250 for fluid, filter, or a temperature sensor. Professional shop costs for these common fixes are $150-$800. If the issue is internal transmission damage, costs can escalate to $1,000-$7,000 for repair or replacement.
P0218 keeps coming back - why?
If P0218 keeps returning, it indicates the root cause was not fully addressed. This often points to an underlying internal transmission issue, a persistent clog in the cooler system, or a faulty sensor that was not correctly diagnosed or replaced.
Will P0218 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0218 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on, regardless of the specific code, is an automatic failure in states with such inspections.
What's the difference between P0218 and P0710?
P0218 indicates an actual transmission over-temperature condition. P0710, on the other hand, means there is a fault in the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit itself, which could lead to incorrect temperature readings or no readings at all.
P0218 on Ford F-150
On Ford F-150s, P0218 is often linked to heavy towing or hauling, which can stress the transmission cooler or lead to fluid breakdown. Always check the transmission fluid level and the efficiency of the transmission cooler first.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the transmission fluid level and condition, and what type of fluid did you find?
Good answer: Yes, the fluid was [level: low/full] and [condition: dark/burnt/clean]. We recommend a [fluid type] flush/fill.
What are the live transmission fluid temperature readings you observed with your scan tool?
Good answer: The live data showed the temperature reaching [X degrees] before the code set. We confirmed the sensor is reading accurately.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$800
Save $100-$550 by doing it yourself for common fixes
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-4 hours
Intermediate - Checking fluid and external components is manageable for a DIYer, but diagnosing internal issues or replacing complex parts requires more experience and specialized tools.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0218 leads to rapid and catastrophic transmission failure. A $50-$250 fix for fluid or a sensor becomes a $3,000-$7,000 transmission replacement.
While You're In There...
If you are draining and refilling the transmission fluid, replacing the filter is a necessary step to ensure clean fluid circulation and prevent future issues.
If the cooler or lines are suspected of being clogged, flushing the system while it's accessible ensures proper fluid flow and heat exchange.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool (with live data capability)
- Jack and Jack Stands
- Drain Pan
- Torque Wrench
- Specific Transmission Fluid (refer to owner's manual)
- Funnel
- Basic Socket/Wrench Set
- Transmission Cooler Line Disconnect Tools (if applicable)
P0218 is a serious code, but immediate action can prevent catastrophic transmission failure. Addressing it quickly saves you from a much larger repair bill.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check your transmission fluid level and condition. If low, add the correct fluid. If burnt or dark, a fluid and filter change is necessary.
Step 2: If fluid is correct, inspect the transmission cooler and lines for blockages or damage. Clear any obstructions or replace damaged components.
Step 3: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, use a scan tool to monitor live transmission temperature data and test the transmission temperature sensor. Replace the sensor if it's faulty.