Buick Regal: DTC P0218

Diagnostic Instructions

• Perform the Diagnostic System Check prior to using this diagnostic procedure: Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle
• Review the description of Strategy Based Diagnosis: Refer to Strategy Based Diagnosis
• An overview of each diagnostic category can be found here: Refer to Diagnostic Procedure Instructions

DTC Descriptor

DTC P0218

Transmission Fluid Overtemperature - Hydraulic/Mechanical Problem

Circuit/System Description

For an overview of the component/system, refer to Electronic Component Description The transmission control module monitors the transmission fluid temperature sensor to determine an overtemperature condition.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Condition 1

• DTC P0711, P0712, P0713 = Not set
• Ignition Voltage=9 to 32 V
• Vehicle Speed=Less than 180 km/h (112 MPH)

Frequency the DTC runs=Continuously - After the running conditions are met

Condition 2

• DTC P0711, P0712, P0713 = Not set
• Ignition Voltage=9 to 32 V
• Vehicle Speed=Greater than 180 km/h (112 MPH)

Frequency the DTC runs=Continuously - After the running conditions are met

Conditions for Setting the DTC

Condition 1

Transmission Fluid Temperature=Warmer than 150ºC (302ºF) - For greater than 10 s

Condition 2

Transmission Fluid Temperature=Warmer than 150ºC (302ºF) - For greater than 60 s

Actions Taken When the DTC Sets

DTCs listed in the DTC Descriptor Category=Type C DTC

Driver Information Display=Transmission Hot - Idle Engine

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTCs listed in the DTC Descriptor Category=Type C DTC

Diagnostic Aids

Obtain additional information from the customer to determine if the vehicle has been modified, damaged or operated in any of the following conditions, which can cause the transmission to overheat:

• Driving in hot climates
• Driving in extreme off-road conditions
• Tow/haul capacity exceeded
• Towing in the incorrect gear

Reference Information

DTC Type: Reference

Refer to Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool: Reference

Refer to Control Module: References

Circuit/System Verification

1. Verify the scan tool Freeze Frame/Failure Records parameter: ECT Sensor=Colder than 125ºC (257ºF)

• If 125ºC (257ºF) or warmer

Refer to: Engine Overheating

• Go to next step: If colder than 125ºC (257ºF)

2. Verify the condition does not exist: Incorrect fluid level or condition - Transmission - Refer to Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check

• If a condition exists

Repair or replace as necessary.

• Go to next step: If no condition exists

3. Verify the condition does not exist: Overheating - Transmission - Refer to: Transmission Overheats

• If a condition exists

Repair or replace as necessary.

• Go to next step: If no condition exists

4. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that you observed from the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data.

Verify the DTC does not set.

• If any DTC is set

Refer to: Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle

• Go to next step: If no DTC is set

5. All OK.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the repair: Refer to Diagnostic Repair Verification

• Refer to Transmission Fluid Drain and Fill
• For control module replacement, programming, and setup: Refer to Control Module: References

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