P0218
CriticalTransmission Fluid Over Temperature
Transmission System
What Does P0218 Mean?
Transmission fluid temperature is too high. Overheated transmission fluid breaks down and loses its lubricating properties.
Common Fix
Service transmission and add cooler if towing
Estimated Cost (DIY)
$50 - $300
Symptoms
- ⚠️Transmission slipping
- ⚠️Burnt fluid smell
- ⚠️Harsh shifting
- ⚠️Transmission warning light
Related Symptoms
Common Causes
How to Diagnose P0218
- 1Stop towing and let transmission cool
- 2Check transmission fluid level and condition
- 3Inspect transmission cooler lines
- 4Check if auxiliary cooler is needed
OEM Diagnostic Flowchart
Scroll to load technician if/then branches.
Read live data and freeze frame for P0218 to pinpoint the cause before buying parts.
Ready to fix it yourself?
Find My Vehicle Repair Guide →Select your exact vehicle for a personalized step-by-step guide
Related Resources
Repair guides, symptom pages, and wiring diagrams related to P0218.
OEM Manual Evidence
Browse →A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) — 2013 GMC Truck Savana 1500 AWD V8-5.3L Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Car repa...
A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) — 2013 GMC Truck Savana 2500 V8-6.6L DSL Turbo Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Ca...
A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) — 2013 GMC Truck Savana 1500 RWD V6-4.3L Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Car repa...
A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) — 2013 GMC Truck Savana 2500 V8-6.0L Service Manual | Operation CHARM Operation CHARM : Car repair m...
Exact Repair Workflows
Browse →Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0218 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0218 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0218 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0218 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0218 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0218 on this vehicle.
Related Symptoms
Browse →Exact Vehicle Hubs
Browse →Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0218.
Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0218.
Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0218.
Open the exact vehicle hub grounded by OEM manual evidence related to P0218.
Open the exact vehicle hub grounded by OEM manual evidence related to P0218.
Open the exact vehicle hub grounded by OEM manual evidence related to P0218.
Related Codes
The TCM (Transmission Control Module) has detected a fault and sent a message to the ECM. This is a general indicator that transmission-specific codes are stored.
Fault in the torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid circuit.
The engine coolant temperature has exceeded the safe limit. This is an overheating condition that can cause severe engine damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can overheated transmission fluid damage the transmission?
- Yes — every 20°F above normal cuts fluid life in half. Severely overheated fluid breaks down and causes internal damage.
- How hot is too hot for transmission fluid?
- Most transmissions are designed for 175-200°F. Above 240°F, fluid begins to break down rapidly.
Related Repair Guides
If your vehicle has triggered P0218, these DIY repair guides may help: