Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2010 Honda Accord

Expert Reply:

When choosing a transmission cooler, there are several factors that go into deciding the best one for your needs. This includes how much weight you will be towing with your 2010 Honda Accord, the terrain you will be driving on, the distance you will be towing, and the available location a cooler can be installed in order to keep the transmission fluid in the optimum temperature range (160 to 200 degrees F).

A class I cooler like # D12901 or # D13611 that you have referenced would be a good choice because they are rated for up to 2000 pounds gross trailer weight which should meet or exceed the towing capacity of the Accord.

However, if you will be towing long distances, on hilly terrain, or the cooler cannot be mounted in the most efficient place, I recommend moving up to the next largest size, a class II rated for 3500 pounds like # D13501. There are basically 3 locations a cooler can be mounted.

The most efficient place is in front of the A/C condenser core, followed by between the core and radiator, and then the least efficient place, between the radiator and motor. I have included a link to our FAQ article on transmission coolers and a link to a video showing a typical installation for reference. The transmission coolers do come with detailed installation instructions.

expert reply by: Michael H