P0218Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Over Temperature Condition
- Generic OBD-II code · Powertrain
- Can trigger limp mode
- How the car detects it
- P0218 is a condition code: the transmission or engine module reports that transmission fluid temperature sensor A reads above an overheat limit. Saab's Aisin automatic sets it above 170 °C for more than 10 s, or above 140 °C for two minutes at high speed, shows a 'transmission overheating' warning and shifts less smoothly; afterwards a fluid change is advised because the additives are spent. Ford uses its own code on diesels and lists P0218 without the warning light on other models. Reactions include earlier torque converter lock-up, a modified shift pattern and sometimes reduced power. Causes are real overheating – towing, hills, low or old fluid, a clogged cooler – or a sensor reading wrongly.
- What you may notice
- Transmission overheating warning
- Changed or harsh shifting
- Limp mode or reduced power possible
- Burnt fluid smell
- Likely causes
- LikelyHigh load (towing, hills, sustained full throttle, stop-and-go in heat)
- PossibleTransmission fluid low or aged
- PossibleFluid cooler, thermostat or lines clogged, weak cooling system
- RareTorque converter clutch slipping or internal damage
- RareTemperature sensor or wiring reading wrongly
- Repair
- Medium · Usually a job for a workshop.Typical cost: €80 – €800
- Related codes
Explanation from obdex (CC0), exactly as the app shows it. Guidance only; confirm with a workshop.