P0218 on Nissan
Transmission Over Temperature Condition
P0218 on Nissan vehicles indicates transmission over temperature condition. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Nissan model — most commonly on NV. 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 Nissan range from $150 to $3,000, 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 Nissan by Model
Nissan NV(1 issue)
- 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Overheating Under Load2012-2021
The Nissan NV 1500/2500/3500 models use a 5-speed automatic transmission (RE5R05A) that overheats under heavy load conditions — particularly when the van is loaded to its GVWR in hot weather. The factory transmission cooler is marginally sized for commercial use. Overheating degrades the ATF, causing the torque converter clutch to shudder and the shift quality to deteriorate. The NV 3500 passenger van with full seating capacity is especially prone.
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View P0218 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0218 mean on Nissan?▼
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 Nissan specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0218 on Nissan vehicles?▼
Common causes on Nissan: 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 Nissan?▼
Repair costs on Nissan range from $150 to $3,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Nissan models have P0218 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0218 on 1 Nissan model: NV.