Can the Factory Transmission Cooler be Replaced on a 2006 Nissan Xterra

Updated 05/22/2015 | Published 05/21/2015

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Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ NPT Inlets - Class I -Extra Efficient

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Derale Atomic-Cool Remote Transmission Cooler Kit w/ Fan, -8 AN Inlets - Class V

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Question:

Good Afternoon, Ive read the concerns with the transmission and radiator problems in the Nissan Xterra. Ive read that you can by-pass the transmission cooler and Im not really looking for that, but instead of replacing the radiator, can I just replace the transmission cooler? Im not super familiar with the mechanics. Sorry if this is a stupid question. Nissan wants $500.00 to replace the radiator and thats a lot of money right now. Especially, due to the fact that its going in for the replacement of the timing chains. Both are issues I feel Nissan should be addressing, since theyre widespread problems. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you!

asked by: Douglas C

Expert Reply:

The factory transmission cooler is likely inside of the radiator on your 2006 Nissan Xterra so the only way to replace it would be to replace the radiator. You can probably find an aftermarket one for less money than an OEM replacement from Nissan. I can tell you that what they want to charge, assuming that includes parts AND labor, is not a bad price for that type of repair.

Bypassing the factory cooler would be the best option if you don't want to replace the radiator. If you do that you will want the best cooling you can get which will be from a remote cooler such as # D15950 which has its own fan. Instead of the transmission lines going to and from the radiator they would go to/from this remote cooler. You would have to cap off the inlet/outlet ports on the radiator if you decide to bypass the factory cooler.

expert reply by: Michael H