Diagnostic Fault Information
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Buick LaCrosse and 2008 Buick Allure. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
| Component |
Cause |
DTC |
| DTC P0218 detects a very high transmission fluid temperature (TFT) without a TFT sensor malfunction. |
| Engine |
- Engine coolant level low
- Incorrect engine coolant
- Old coolant or incorrect concentration level
- Cooling system leak
- Radiator hose kinked or pinched
- Loose, missing, or damaged radiator air seals or deflector - poor air flow
- The radiator and air conditioning (A/C) condenser have air flow obstructions and may include a large number of bent fins
- The cooling fans do not operate
- Inspect the engine mechanical for worn, leaking, cracked cylinder heads, or engine block
|
P0116 |
| Transmission |
Vehicle Overload or Beyond Towing Capacity:
- Vehicle is overloaded
- Vehicle is towing beyond capacity
- Towing in wrong gear
- Vehicle modifications
|
P0218 |
Heat Transfer:
- Engine overheating
- Cooler restrictions - radiator has restricted flow/blockage
- Restricted air flow
- Vehicle modifications
- Aftermarket auxiliary cooler not installed correctly, incorrect flow direction - reversed flow
- Restricted, blocked, or pinched transmission cooler lines
|
P0218 |
Transmission Abuse:
- Engine overheating
- Excessive brake torque maneuvers
- Vehicle overloaded
- Vehicle is towing beyond capacity
- Vehicle modifications
|
P0218 |
Vehicle Damage:
- Damage to vehicle under carriage
- Transmission bottom pan damage
- Restricted air flow
|
P0218 |
Transmission Fluid:
- Fluid leaks
- Low fluid level
- Contaminated or poor fluid quality
|
P0218 |
Torque Converter:
- Inefficient pump
- Torque converter failure - stator, pump, clutch, ballooning, or heat damaged
- Stuck on or locked up
- Converter damage
|
P0218 |
Low Pump Output:
- Low fluid level
- Blocked, damaged, or loose filter
- Pinched or restricted cooler lines
- Restricted cooler - damage or debris
- Inefficient pump - worn
|
P0218 |
Clutch Slippage:
- Low fluid level
- Low pump output
|
P0218 |