Do I Need a Transmission Cooler for Towing with a 2011 Honda Pilot with FWD

Updated 01/08/2020 | Published 01/07/2020

Question:

well, towing a uhaul 4x8 trailer trailer will be loading just small boxes and a total of about 800 lbs, now do i need a transmission cooler? Just moving from Cali to wisconsin for military move

asked by: Sarge

Expert Reply:

I will start out by saying that transmission coolers are a relatively cost effective and easy to install aftermarket add on that you can put on your vehicle to help prolong the life of your transmission regardless of whether or not you'll be towing. They aren't required when towing, but they will definitely help reduce the stress on your 2011 Honda Pilot during this long trip.

I recommend using the Derale # D13501 which is a plate fin cooler and will do a better job of dispersing the heat in your transmission fluid than the tube fin coolers. This cooler will install in one of the 3 locations shown on the attached picture-basically wherever you've got space and will do a great job of helping prolong the life of your transmission and transmission fluid.

I've linked a brief review video of the Derale 8000 series transmission coolers that you may want to have a look at as well.

expert reply by: Erik B