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P0218 Ford Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition

Quick Answer

The P0218 Ford diagnostic trouble code indicates that the transmission fluid temperature is above the acceptable range. Common causes include Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, Low transmission fluid levels, Malfunctioning transmission cooler. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0218 Ford indicates Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, Low transmission fluid levels, Malfunctioning transmission cooler.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 30, 2024
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Code P0218 Ford Description

The P0218 Ford diagnostic trouble code indicates that the transmission fluid temperature is above the acceptable range. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a malfunctioning transmission fluid temperature sensor, low transmission fluid levels, a faulty transmission cooler, or issues with the cooling system. When the transmission fluid temperature exceeds the specified limits, it can lead to reduced transmission efficiency, increased wear and tear on transmission components, and potentially even transmission failure if left unaddressed.

OBDII Code P0218 Ford - Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition
P0218 Ford Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Over Temperature Condition

Common Causes of P0218 Ford

  1. Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor
  2. Low transmission fluid levels
  3. Malfunctioning transmission cooler
  4. Clogged transmission fluid lines
  5. Engine overheating issues

Symptoms of P0218 Ford

  1. Illumination of the Check Engine Light
  2. Harsh shifting or slipping gears
  3. Transmission overheating warning message on the dashboard
  4. Reduced fuel efficiency
  5. Transmission fluid leaks

How to Fix P0218 Ford

  1. Begin by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. Top up the fluid if necessary.
  2. Inspect the transmission fluid temperature sensor for any signs of damage or malfunction. Replace if needed.
  3. Check the transmission cooler and lines for any clogs or leaks. Clean or repair/replace as necessary.
  4. Address any underlying issues with the cooling system that may be causing the transmission fluid to overheat.
  5. Clear the diagnostic trouble code and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P0218 Ford

The cost of repairing a P0218 Ford code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. In general, the parts needed for this repair, such as a transmission fluid temperature sensor or transmission cooler, can range from $50 to $200. Labor costs at an auto repair shop could add another $100 to $300 to the total bill. Therefore, the total cost for this repair could be anywhere from $150 to $500. Keep in mind that labor rates can vary widely based on location and the shop's hourly rate. It is recommended to get quotes from several repair shops to find the best price for this repair.

When is the Code Detected?

When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a high transmission fluid temperature (TFT) for a long period of time, then code P0218 will set.

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Information for Specific Ford Models

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

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