Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2006 Pontiac Vibe AWD with a 1.8L Engine

Question:

Hi there Have an AWD 2006 Pontiac vibe with the littlefoot 1.8 liter engine. Towing capacity says 1500 lbs. I have a single Kendon stand upinch motorcycle trailer that weighs 300 lbs. I will be hauling my Harley roadking which is nearly 900 lbs out to Ky and TN soon lot of big grades on these roads. I know that I will need a transmission cooler so what model/make do you recommend for this vehicle it is basically a Toyota Matrix? I bought a clas 1 hidden hitchinch and wire harness from you last year and it went on awesome, thanks much.

asked by: John

Helpful Expert Reply:

Transmission coolers are not vehicle specific, however to optimize efficiency you would want to use the largest transmission cooler available, and mount in the optimal place on your vehicle. The most efficient mounting position is considered to be between the grille and the AC condenser core.

Considering the space that is available for you to mount a transmission cooler is most likely limited on your 2006 Pontiac Vibe I recommend either the Derale 9000 Plate and Fin Transmission Cooler # D13611 or the Derale Series 8000 Plate and Fin Transmission Cooler # D13501.

Both of these transmission coolers function the same way but the external dimensions are slightly different. I have included photos of these dimensions, please choose according to the space that you have available to mount this transmission cooler.

I have included a photos showing the dimensions of these coolers, and the ideal mounting position. Please take measurements in the possible mounting location and make sure that at least one of these products will fit on your 2006 Pontiac Vibe.

These transmission coolers are both plate and fin transmission cooler style it is more efficient than a tube and fin style of transmission cooler. This design allows the fluid to spread out in the finned chambers, then turbulators agitate the fluid to facilitate heat transfer and cool the transmission fluid.

In order to install the transmission cooler in-line with your existing transmission lines on your vehicle you may need some adapter fittings. You will need to determine what diameter your existing transmission lines are and then use the appropriate compression fitting. We have the compression fittings available for existing transmission lines that are 3/8, 5/16, and 1/2 inch in diameter. Please choose the correct fitting for your existing transmission lines.

I have included links to the parts listed above, their installation instructions, two helpful articles regarding transmission coolers, and a few videos for your reference.