P0218 on Chevrolet
Transmission Over Temperature Condition
P0218 on Chevrolet vehicles indicates transmission over temperature condition. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Chevrolet model — most commonly on Silverado 1500. This code means the transmission fluid has gotten too hot and exceeded a safe temperature limit. The transmission's temperature sensor reported an overheat condition to the computer, which can be caused by an actual overheating situation or by a faulty sensor reporting a false reading. Excessive heat is one of the most damaging things for an automatic transmission, breaking down the fluid and accelerating wear, so this code should be addressed promptly. The vehicle may enter a reduced-power or limp mode to protect the transmission. Typical repair costs on Chevrolet range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0218
- •Low or old/degraded transmission fluid
- •Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor
- •Clogged or restricted transmission cooler or lines
- •Heavy load/towing or stop-and-go driving overheating the fluid
- •Slipping clutches generating excess heat
- •Faulty cooling fan or radiator (shared cooling) issues
- •Internal transmission wear or restriction
P0218 on Chevrolet by Model
Chevrolet Silverado 1500(1 issue)
- Transmission Overheating from Failed 8L90 Thermal Bypass Valve / Cooler-Line Leaks2015-2022
Silverado 1500 trucks with the 8L90 eight-speed (and the older 6L80 six-speed) can run dangerously hot when the factory transmission thermal bypass valve sticks closed, so fluid never reaches the cooler — common under towing or heavy load. Sustained temperatures above ~220-250°F oxidize the fluid and cook the clutches and torque converter, accelerating the separately-known shudder/wear and shortening transmission life. Compounding this, the transmission cooler lines and fittings are a frequent leak point on these trucks, dropping fluid level and worsening heat. Owners towing in hot climates are most affected.
Looking for P0218 on a different make?
View P0218 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0218 mean on Chevrolet?▼
P0218 stands for "Transmission Over Temperature Condition." This code means the transmission fluid has gotten too hot and exceeded a safe temperature limit. The transmission's temperature sensor reported an overheat condition to the computer, which can be caused by an actual overheating situation or by a faulty sensor reporting a false reading. Excessive heat is one of the most damaging things for an automatic transmission, breaking down the fluid and accelerating wear, so this code should be addressed promptly. The vehicle may enter a reduced-power or limp mode to protect the transmission. On Chevrolet specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0218 on Chevrolet vehicles?▼
Common causes on Chevrolet: Low or old/degraded transmission fluid, Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, Clogged or restricted transmission cooler or lines, Heavy load/towing or stop-and-go driving overheating the fluid, Slipping clutches generating excess heat. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0218 on a Chevrolet?▼
Repair costs on Chevrolet range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Chevrolet models have P0218 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0218 on 1 Chevrolet model: Silverado 1500.