Supplemental Transmission Cooler for a 2012 Nissan Frontier

Updated 10/03/2013 | Published 10/02/2013

Products Featured in This Question

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

(876)

$104.38

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

(876)

$96.60

Question:

I have a 2012 frontier and am reading online that it includes a factory external transmission oil cooler. Do you know if this is true? If so, is it worth it to add or replace the stock one?

asked by: Alan N

Expert Reply:

It is possible that your 2012 Nissan Frontier has an external transmission cooler. However, to determine what the vehicle is equipped the best thing to do is have a dealership run the VIN on the vehicle and they can tell you how it is equipped. All vehicles with an automatic transmission have a cooler of some kind. Usually it is found inside the radiator housing.

Some trucks that have a factory tow package will have an external cooler in front of the radiator. It will look similar to the air conditioning condenser.

No matter what type of cooler your truck has, adding a supplemental cooler is a good idea because transmission fluid cannot be overcooled and with cooler fluid the transmission will last longer.

The flow of the fluid will start at the transmission, got to the factory cooler, then to the supplemental cooler, and then return to the transmission. You would not replace the factory cooler with a supplemental cooler. You would use both. I have included a link to the different recommend coolers for your truck. There are options for the 2.5 liter motor and the 4.0 liter.

The most popular for either motor is # D13503. I have linked a video showing a typical installation for you. I have also included a link to our FAQ article on transmission coolers for you.

expert reply by: Michael H