Fault codeP0218

SEVERE

Transmission Over Temperature Condition

What this code means

Transmission Over Temperature Condition.

P0218 is a generic code: it means the same thing on every make. P0218 belongs to family P02xx — Injector circuit. Its page explains how to read a code and groups all its codes by part.

Gearbox fluid temperature sensor

This sensor, usually inside the gearbox, measures the temperature of the transmission fluid. The control unit uses it to adapt shift quality, the lock-up of the torque converter and to protect the gearbox when the fluid overheats.

What you notice

Harsh or late shifts, especially when cold, the torque converter not locking up, sometimes a gearbox in limp mode.

How to check it

Check the fluid level and condition first: dark, burnt-smelling fluid is a sign of overheating. Then the connector on the gearbox, where leaks of fluid can wick into the wiring. On many gearboxes the sensor is part of an internal wiring harness and replacement requires removing the sump.

Watch it live in Klaro

With an OBD2 adapter plugged in, these live readings show the part at work, when your car reports them:

Coolant temperature
Vehicle speed

What to do

Have it checked promptly. An injection, fuel-supply or boost fault can cost power, cause misfires and eventually damage the engine or the catalytic converter. If the light is flashing or the engine is overheating, stop driving.

Clearing a code switches the light off but repairs nothing: if the fault remains, the code comes back. Clearing a fault code yourself →

How to read this code

PPowertrain
0standardised code
2Injector circuit
18P0218