Recommended Transmission Cooler for 2014 Acura MDX  

Question:

Expert Reply:

It's definitely possible that the transmission cooler similar to the Derale Class I # D12902 you have installed on your 2014 Acura MDX is too small, but the transmission overheating could have been caused by a few other factors as well.

I first recommend making sure that the cooler is mounted in a good location that is getting plenty of air flow. The ideal location for mounting a cooler like this is directly behind the grille, in front of the AC condenser core. The outside temperature, along with your driving conditions (heavy traffic, lots of hills, etc) could have also affected the transmission cooler's ability to cool the Acura's fluid.

I also just recommend verifying the towing capacity of your Acura MDX by checking your copy of the owner's manual. I did check the online version of the owner's manual and saw thtat the 4WD model of your vehicle does indeed have a 5,000 pound capacity with ATF cooler, but this is assuming that only 2 occupants (including the driver) are in the vehicle. The capacity decreases the more occupants you have inside the vehicle (4 occupants = 4,500 pound capacity, etc). The 2WD model also has a lower peak capacity of 3,500 pounds.

With all of that being said, there are certainly better options available for a transmission cooler that will provide greater benefits than the one you have installed. As a general rule, the best transmission cooler for a vehicle is simply the biggest one that will fit behind the grille.

I recommend taking a look at the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler # D13503. This plate-fin style cooler will spread fluid out along finned chambers for faster cooling than your tube and fin style unit. It measures 11 inches wide, 8-3/4 inches tall, and 7/8 inches deep. As long as you have the needed space for this unit, this will work great as an upgrade.

I have attached a sample installation video that you can also take a look at.

expert reply by: Chris R

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