Test Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Yukon XL, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.

3: This step inspects for air restrictions and loss of transmission fluid flow, causing high transmission fluid temperature.

DTC P0218

Step	Action	Value(s)	Yes	No
1	Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls?	-	Go to Step 2	Go to Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls in Engine Controls - 6.0L or Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls in Engine Controls - 8.1L
2	Install a scan tool. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. IMPORTANT: Before clearing the DTCs, use the scan tool in order to record the Freeze Frame and Failure Records. Using the Clear Info Function erases the Failure Records from the PCM. Record the Failure Records. Clear the DTCs. Perform the Transmission Fluid Checking Procedure. Refer to Transmission Fluid Checking Procedure . Did you perform the Transmission Fluid Checking Procedure?	-	Go to Step 3	Go to Transmission Fluid Checking Procedure
3	Inspect the engine cooling system for the following conditions: Air flow restrictions Air flow blockage System fluid level and condition Debris Inspect the transmission cooling system for the following conditions: Air flow restrictions Air flow blockage Debris Damaged cooler lines or hoses Low AT fluid cooler flow Refer to Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler Flushing and Flow Test (J 35944-A) or Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler Flushing and Flow Test (J 45096) . Did you find and correct the condition?	-	Go to Step 6	Go to Step 4
4	Perform the Line Pressure Check Procedure. Refer to Line Pressure Check Procedure . Did you find and correct the condition?	-	Go to Step 6	Go to Step 5
5	Inspect the torque converter stator for damage. Refer to Torque Converter Diagnosis Procedure . Did you find and correct the condition?	-	Go to Step 6	Go to Symptoms - Automatic Transmission
6	Perform the following procedure in order to verify the repair: Select DTC. Select Clear Info. Operate the vehicle under the following conditions. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. The transmission fluid temperature must be less than 129° C (265° F) for at least 5 seconds. Select Specific DTC. Enter DTC P0218. Has the test run and passed?	-	Go to Step 7	Go to Step 2
7	With the scan tool, observe the stored information, capture info and DTC info. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed?	-	Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List in Engine Controls - 6.0L or Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List in Engine Controls - 8.1L	System OK