Recommendation for Transmission Cooler on 2008 Nissan Altima with CVT Transmission

Updated 04/21/2017 | Published 04/20/2017

Question:

I need help deciding on which transmission cooler to get. I have a Nissan Altima Coupe 3.5v6 with the CVT transmission. Do I need to get a certain cooler because of the cvt? Also, please explain the difference between the different classes. Thank you

asked by: Mitchell H

Helpful Expert Reply:

If the CVT transmission on your 2008 Nissan Altima has cooling lines that run from the transmission to the radiator, you can install a transmission cooler. If it does not have these lines running, then an after-market transmission cooler is not recommended. The concern centers around the fact that any changes to the system from a cooler installation will affect the fluid pressure, which will in turn affect shifting performance.

If you are unsure, I recommend checking with a local Nissan technician for any guidance or advice regarding adding a cooler to your CVT transmission vehicle.

If your vehicle does have the required cooling lines, then a general rule for choosing the best transmission cooler is to simply get the biggest one that can fit between the grille and ac condenser core. This is the ideal location for a cooler because it will provide the most airflow possible.

I recommend looking at the Derale Transmission Cooler # D13503. This plate-fin cooler is an efficient heat exchanger that will prolong the life and improve the performance of your Altima's transmission. The dimensions of this cooler are 11 inches wide x 8-3/4 inches tall x 7/8 inches deep. As long as you have the space available between your grille and ac condenser, this will be a great option.

The class ratings on our transmission coolers are simply to help customers in selecting the best one for their specific vehicle and needs. Because we are in the towing industry, customers are used to seeing Class ratings on trailer hitches, so this is an easy way to alert the customer as to which cooler is the most efficient. For example, if a customer has a Class II trailer hitch, then a Class II transmission cooler will most likely be sufficient, however there is no harm at all in using a larger, higher rated cooler as long as it will fit.

I have also attached a great article on transmission coolers that you may find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R