Does a 2016 Honda Pilot Need a Transmission and Oil Cooler for Towing a 3.5K Trailer?
Updated 08/15/2025 | Published 07/20/2025
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Question:
2016 Honda Pilot AWD towing a 3500lb camper. Purchased an electric brake controller from you. Installation was perfect! Also purchased a series 9000 transmission cooler to be installed. Should I also purchase an engine oil cooler? Can I install next to transmission cooler without sacrificing radiator cooling. Thank you.
asked by: Brian V
Expert Reply:
Hey Brian, thanks for reaching out - I'm glad the brake controller is working out for you!
The Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13611 you got will be sufficient to keep your 2016 Pilot from overheating, but I do understand the desire to operate at cooler temps so if you wanted to also install an oil cooler I definitely get it.
As long as you use a relatively small oil cooler, like the Derale # D15602, the restricting airflow won't be a problem. For the best of both worlds we have kits like the Derale Electra-Cool Combo Engine and Transmission Cooler Assembly w/ Fan # D15200 which cools both of the things you're wanting to cool and it has a fan so it can be mounted anywhere you have room - but you already have the transmission cooler so it wouldn't make sense to get this.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ NPT Inlets - Class I -Extra Efficient
- Transmission Coolers
- Plate-Fin Cooler
- Car
- Standard Mount
- 11W x 3-7/8T x 1-1/4D Inch
- With 1/2 Inch NPT
- Derale
more information >
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on Transmission Coolers
Jon G.
8/15/2025
Hey Brian, I'm glad to hear the brake controller installation went smoothly! Did you decide to go with the oil cooler installation next to the transmission cooler? I'm curious to know how it worked out for you, as it could really help others in a similar situation.