P0218 fault code: Transmission Fluid Over Temperature Condition

Last updated · OBDCode UK editorial

P0218 means “Transmission Fluid Over Temperature Condition” — a fuel and injector circuits fault in the powertrain. Do not drive until checked. The gearbox computer (or engine computer) has logged transmission fluid over-temperature. The oil in the automatic gearbox ran too hot. This is not a fuel-injector fault.

Can I DIY?

Do not DIY this repair. We do not publish DIY repair or strip-down steps for this code on this page. Read codes and observe only; leave the repair to a qualified garage.

Do not DIY this repairDIY boundary
ToolsSpecialist tools or workshop equipment — typically a professional garage job.

This fault is in the professional-only category. We do not publish strip-down or fitting steps on this page. Use a qualified garage.

Hot systems

Never open a hot coolant cap — pressure can scald you. Exhaust and catalytic converter get hot enough to burn and ignite debris. Stay clear of electric fans; they can run after shut-off.

P02xxFuel and injector circuits
MOT fail riskif the warning light stays on

What does P0218 mean?

P0218 is a generic (SAE standard) powertrain code reported by your car’s engine control unit. It sits in the P02xx block, which covers fuel and injector circuits. The stored description is “Transmission Fluid Over Temperature Condition”. The code itself tells you which circuit or system tripped the fault — not always the exact part that failed.

Will P0218 fail an MOT?

A lit malfunction indicator is a Major MOT defect until repaired. Do not drive an overheated gearbox to the test centre.

Before booking your test, check what usually fails on your car: see our MOT pass rates by make and model, built from 33.1 million DVSA tests.

What the MOT data says

No MOT certificate item corresponds to this code; MOT outcome data cannot be shown.

Related guides

Car diagnostic test cost: compare the scopeUK booking marketplaces currently publish diagnostic averages of about £52–£65. Engine management light on: steady or flashing?A steady engine management light means the computer has stored a fault. Drive with caution and get the code read. A flashing light is different — stop when it is safe. Car overheating but coolant looks full: stop and recoverNo — do not continue driving while the engine is overheating, even if the expansion bottle looks full. Move only far enough to reach a place of relative safety, switch off, and… Coolant keeps disappearing with no visible leakA falling cold level still means coolant is escaping; never open a hot pressurised system.
P0200Injector Circuit/Open P0201Injector Circuit/Open - Cylinder 1 P0202Injector Circuit/Open - Cylinder 2 P0203Injector Circuit/Open - Cylinder 3 P0204Injector Circuit/Open - Cylinder 4 P0205Injector Circuit/Open - Cylinder 5 P0206Injector Circuit/Open - Cylinder 6 P0207Injector Circuit/Open - Cylinder 7

P0218 — quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0218?

Do not drive until checked. Our verified driving guidance for P0218 is: do not drive. A gearbox that has overheated should be cooled and recovered, not driven on. This page will not treat it as an injector or rail job.

Can I fix P0218 myself?

Do not DIY this repair. We do not publish DIY repair or strip-down steps for this code on this page. Read codes and observe only; leave the repair to a qualified garage. Specialist tools or workshop equipment — typically a professional garage job.

Will P0218 fail my MOT?

A lit malfunction indicator is a Major MOT defect until repaired. Do not drive an overheated gearbox to the test centre.

Fault-code identifiers are standard diagnostic facts. Their explanations and diagnostic guidance on this site are original editorial summaries, not reproduced SAE wording. MOT defect rules reflect the DVSA MOT inspection manual (2026). This page is general guidance for UK drivers, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis.