Is a Transmission Cooler Necessary on a 2011 Honda CR-V

Updated 08/19/2013 | Published 08/15/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Derale Dyno-Cool Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit - Class I - Economy

(114)

$62.86

Derale High-Temperature Replacement Hose for Transmission - 11/32" Inner Diameter - 4' Long

(131)

$17.68

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

(867)

$100.51

Question:

Have a 2011 Honda CR-V. Have heard they have transmission cooling built in and it may not be necessary to add an after market cooler. I occasionally pull a lightweight trailer of about 400# loaded. Also have a tear trailer that goes around 980#. Tear has 14inch wheels. You provided some good advice on a trailer plug have not started on that yet. Thanks for your help.

asked by: Bob G

Helpful Expert Reply:

According to my research, the towing capacity of the 2011 CR-V is 1500 lbs. It appears that at most, you will not exceed 2/3 of this capacity, even when you are towing your heavier trailer.

Even though you have plenty of remaining capacity, and even with the OEM cooler (probably incorporated into the radiator), a transmission cooler is really inexpensive insurance for your transmission. A supplemental cooler will do an excellent job of providing extra protection to your transmission, especially when traveling in hilly terrain that makes the engine and transmission work much harder. If it were my vehicle, I would install a cooler if I were planning on towing.

A plate-fin cooler like the # D13502 would be more efficient for its size, and would best be mounted directly behind the grille, in front of the radiator and AC condenser.

I have linked you to some FAQ articles about transmission coolers as well as an install video that you might find helpful. When we installed a cooler on the 2009 CR-V, we found that some extra hose, part # D13003 was needed.

expert reply by: Mike L