Pinpoint Test D: Transmission Overheating

• Normal operation 
  • Normal operating temperatures for the TR9070 transmission are between 74deg.C (165deg.F) and 105deg.C (220deg.F).

• Excessive vehicle loads, severe vehicle use 
  • Some driving conditions (low speed parade or aggressive acceleration) may temporarily increase fluid temperature within safe parameters. If the transmission fluid temperature continues to rise, the TCM and PCM will take action to reduce the temperature by turning on cooling fans, changing shift schedules, and truncating engine torque. If the transmission fluid temperature continues to rise and exceeds maximum safe temperature, a DTC will set. If a DTC is not set, the transmission is not overheating.
  • Refer to Owner's Literature for more information about transmission or clutch overheating, vehicle loads and vehicle use.

• Incorrect fluid level 
  • Check the transmission fluid level and ADJUST as necessary. REFER to: Transmission Fluid Level Check .

• Fluid condition 
  • Collect a transmission fluid sample and INSPECT it for debris or contamination. REFER to: Transmission Fluid Level Check .
  • If debris or contamination is found, remove the transmission fluid pan to investigate further. REFER to: Transmission Fluid Pan, Gasket and Filter .

• Incorrect fluid type 
  • If the transmission fluid has been replaced with anything other than the recommended fluid, DRAIN the transmission fluid and REFILL the transmission with the proper fluid. REFER to: Specifications . REFER to: Transmission Fluid Drain and Refill .

• Transmission cooling system damaged, blocked, restricted or installed incorrectly 
  • Check the transmission fluid cooler tubes for damage or kinks. Make sure the transmission fluid cooler tubes are properly installed. INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to: Transmission Fluid Cooler Tubes .
  • Check the transmission fluid cooler for damage or bent fins. Make sure the transmission fluid cooler is properly installed. Make sure the cooler and vehicle airflow passages are free of debris or blockage. CLEAN or INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to: Transmission Fluid Cooler .
  • Inspect the transmission fluid fine filter for debris or blockage. INSTALL a new filter as necessary. REFER to: Transmission Fluid Filter .

• Internal transmission concerns 
  • If any transmission related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) other than P0218 are present, RESOLVE those first. REFER to: DTC Chart and Pinpoint Tests .
  • If any other observable symptoms are present, RESOLVE those next. REFER to: Diagnosis By Symptom .
  • If no other diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) or symptoms are present, INSTALL a new transmission. REFER to: Transmission (Removal) . REFER to: Transmission (Installation) .

Possible Sources 

• Extreme operating conditions
• Incorrect fluid level, type or condition
• Transmission fluid cooler, tubes or filter
• Internal transmission components

Diagnostic steps are not provided for this symptom or DTC. REFER to: Diagnostic Methods .