Transmission Fluid Over Temperature
The POWERSTROKE-P0218 (Power Stroke) diesel fault code means: Transmission Fluid Over Temperature. This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- intermediate
- Estimated cost
- $200-$3,500
Down with a Power Stroke fault on the road?
We are building a network of verified mobile diesel and reefer technicians along the freight corridor. It is not live yet — no one can be dispatched to you today. You can see where the pilot is launching and register interest.
View pilot availability →What Are the Symptoms of POWERSTROKE-P0218?
- Temp warning
- Slipping shifts
- Burnt ATF smell
What Causes POWERSTROKE-P0218? (Most Likely First)
- Heavy towing without aux cooler Very Likely
- Plugged transmission cooler lines Likely
- Failed torque converter Possible
Can I Still Drive with POWERSTROKE-P0218?
Short distances only. POWERSTROKE-P0218 is rated moderate severity. Keep trips short and get it diagnosed soon rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is P0218 on a 7.3L Power Stroke?
P0218 on a 7.3L Power Stroke (1994-2003) indicates: Transmission Fluid Over Temperature. This is a known diagnostic trouble code on this engine family and typically points to the causes listed above.
Can I drive with P0218 on my Power Stroke?
Only drive short distances to get to a repair facility. Continued operation may cause further damage.
How much does it cost to fix P0218?
Repair cost is typically $200-$3,500 depending on the underlying cause and whether you DIY or use a shop. Diagnostic time alone runs $100-$180 at most independent diesel shops.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose POWERSTROKE-P0218?
Check ATF level and condition -- dark/burnt means internal damage.
Back-flush or replace transmission cooler.
Add auxiliary cooler on towing trucks.
Sources 1
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines P0218 as a generic OBD-II code)
P0218 on Other Platforms
The same code ID appears across other engines, vehicles, and equipment. Diagnostic flow varies by platform — see the matching breakdown:
Which Vehicles Commonly Get POWERSTROKE-P0218?
- 1994.5-1997 Ford F-250/F-350 7.3L Power Stroke
- 1999-2003 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 7.3L Power Stroke
- 1999-2003 Ford F-450/F-550 Super Duty 7.3L Power Stroke
- 1994.5-2003 Ford E-350/E-450 7.3L Power Stroke
- 2000-2003 Ford Excursion 7.3L Power Stroke
Explore More
Was this helpful?
Send this to whoever is fixing the truck — your tech, or the person asking what the fault means.