Transmission Cooler and Towing Equipment Recommendations for a 2017 Kia Sorento

Updated 06/29/2020 | Published 06/25/2020

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(846)

$193.06

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(167)

$77.01

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$88.95

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1769)

$279.95

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class IV - Efficient

(867)

$120.43

7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires

(337)

$96.74

Question:

My 2017 Sorento doesnt have the tow package so I want to add a transmission cooler and hitch with an electronic brake controller. What transmission cooler will fit?

asked by: Sarah S

Expert Reply:

The transmission cooler I recommend going with for your 2017 Kia Sorento is the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13504. We haven't had the chance to install this on a '17 Sorento yet so you'll need to confirm that you have enough space in your engine compartment for the cooler which measures 11" wide x 12" tall x 7/8" deep overall.

Then for the rest of the equipment I recommend using the etrailer Hitch # e98843, the T-One Wiring # 118583, Wiring Upgrade Kit # ETBC7L, and the Curt Echo Brake Controller # C51180. This is a wireless brake controller that you adjust the settings with your Apple or Android smart phone device, and the wiring your install keeps you from having to splice into factory wiring or drill holes in the floorboard of your Sorento. I have attached sample installation videos for all of this that you can check out.

The final piece to your towing setup is a ball mount kit. I recommend checking out Ball Mount Kit # 989900 because it includes two ball mounts, one with a 3/4” rise/2” drop and the other with a 2-3/4” rise/4” drop, a 1-7/8” hitch ball, a 2” hitch ball, and a pin and clip. You will want to refer to the attached ball mount article to ensure that this kit is correct for your towing application.