Circuit Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue and 2002 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fluid flows from the fluid pump assembly to the line "1" pressure regulator valve, located in the control valve body. Through this valve, the fluid enters the tier "2" feed circuit. The fluid in the tier "2" feed pressure is then directed to the line "2" pressure regulator valve. The fluid passes through this valve and enters the line "2" circuit. The fluid in the line "2" pressure is then routed to the line limit valve, where it is regulated into the line "2" limit circuit. The fluid is then routed back through the line "2" pressure regulator valve and into the limited converter feed circuit, which leads to the TCC control valve. The fluid then passes through the TCC control valve and enters the TCC release circuit. Once there, the fluid is then routed through the control valve body, the case, and a passage in the input shaft assembly to the release side of the torque converter clutch pressure plate. The fluid then passes around the TCC pressure plate and enters the TCC pressure plate. The fluid from the torque converter assembly is then routed back to the TCC control valve where it passes through the valve and enters the cooler feed circuit. Fluid in the cooler feed circuit is finally routed through the case and the cooler pipe to the transmission oil cooler. Low line pressure, obstructions in the fluid flow to the cooler, and poor air flow to the cooler are all possible causes for the transaxle to overheat. DTC P0218 sets when the transmission fluid temperature is greater than a calibrated temperature (less than a calibrated voltage).