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If your Infiniti FX35 runs hotter than you would like or you tow, do spirited driving, or face stop-and-go traffic often, adding a dedicated power steering cooler can reduce fluid temperatures and extend component life. This guide collects the top shortlisted options for the Infiniti FX35 so you can focus on products proven to suit this vehicle and its common duty cycles.We evaluated units across cooling capacity, fitment and mounting options, hose and fitting compatibility, and build quality to help you pick a unit that matches your driving habits. Read on to see the top picks and quick notes on what each type offers.
Looking for other parts? See all Infiniti FX35 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Nissens Power Steering Oil Cooler 90633 |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Mishimoto Universal Transmission/Power Steering Cooler |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Derale 4-Pass Power Steering Cooler Kit |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Derale 13309 Power Steering Cooler Kit (Black) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Hayden 1009 Power Steering Oil Cooler (9 inch) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Derale 13200 Power Steering Cooler Kit |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Hayden Automotive 1011 Power Steering Oil Cooler |  |
1. Nissens Power Steering Oil Cooler 90633
| Manufacturer | Nissens |
|---|---|
| Model | Power Steering Oil Cooler |
| Item model number | 90633 |
| Position | Left |
The Nissens Power Steering Oil Cooler 90633 is a direct-fit replacement heat exchanger intended to keep power steering fluid cooler during normal and heavy use. It is typically installed inline with the power steering return line where it increases fluid surface area to shed heat and help maintain consistent steering performance. Notable features include machined exterior construction and Nissens quality testing procedures that include pressure-impulse cycling for durability. In practice this cooler provides more stable fluid temperatures during towing, spirited driving, or hot-weather operation, which can reduce foaming and extend the life of steering racks and pumps. Installation follows factory mounting points and is straightforward for a competent DIYer or shop, but confirm fitment for the Infiniti FX35 before purchasing. The unit focuses on reliable cooling and longevity rather than lightweight or cosmetic upgrades, so buyers should expect a practical, service-oriented part rather than a performance-branded item.
Best for: Balanced all-round buyers who want a reliable, factory-quality power steering cooler to protect the steering system during regular driving, occasional towing, and hot-weather use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a lightweight, race-oriented cooling add-on or a universal cooler that fits multiple vehicle models without fitment verification should consider other options.
- Factory-quality construction with machined exterior for durability
- Designed to reduce power steering fluid temperature under load
- Pressure-impulse tested in development for long service life
- Direct-fit design that uses factory-style mounting and connections
- No vehicle-specific fitment details listed on the product page so additional verification is required
Verdict: A durable, factory-quality power steering oil cooler built to lower fluid temperatures and extend the life of steering components.
2. Mishimoto Universal Transmission/Power Steering Cooler
| Material Type | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Item Length | 15.5 Inches |
| Nominal Wall Thickness | 0.75 inches |
| Outside Diameter | 0.38 Inches |
| Included Components | Hose Plastic Ties Foam pads O-ring clamps Drain cock connector |
The Mishimoto universal cooler is a small, all-aluminum heat exchanger designed to lower operating temperatures for automatic transmissions and power steering systems. It mounts in front of a radiator or in any airflow path using the supplied ties and pads and connects with 3/8" push-on fittings for a straightforward hose hookup. For an Infiniti FX35 needing improved power steering cooling—especially when towing, spirited driving, or operating in hot climates—this cooler offers a simple way to reduce fluid heat and extend component life. The lightweight 15.5" unit and included installation hardware make fitment flexible, though you may need to adapt mounting points and routing on the FX35 to achieve optimal airflow. The kit includes hoses, clamps, and a drain cock connector but some buyers report limited hose length or quantity for specific layouts. Strong aluminum construction and Mishimoto's lifetime warranty are definite positives, but expect some hands-on trimming or custom brackets for a tidy, secure install in an FX35's front-end area.
Best for: Performance-oriented Infiniti FX35 owners looking to lower power steering fluid temps during towing, aggressive driving, or hot-weather use and who are comfortable modifying mounts or routing hoses for a neat installation.
Less Ideal for: Owners seeking a vehicle-specific, bolt-in power steering cooler with dedicated brackets and exact-length lines should consider model-specific kits instead.
- All-aluminum construction for efficient heat transfer and corrosion resistance
- Universal mounting allows flexible placement in the FX35 front end
- Includes push-on 3/8" fittings and basic hose/clamp hardware for quick hookup
- Compact footprint fits where space is limited and adds extra cooling capacity
- Backed by Mishimoto lifetime warranty for long-term peace of mind
- Universal design may require custom brackets or hose routing to fit the FX35 cleanly
- Supplied hoses or attachment hardware may be insufficient for some vehicle-specific layouts
Verdict: A compact, high-quality aluminum universal cooler that gives Infiniti FX35 owners aftermarket power steering/transmission cooling capacity with flexible mounting and Mishimoto backing.
3. Derale 4-Pass Power Steering Cooler Kit
| Model | 4-Pass Power Steering Cooler |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Derale |
| Item model number | 13212 |
The Derale 4-Pass Power Steering Cooler Kit is a compact add-on cooler that uses 1/2 inch copper tubing expanded into aluminum fins to lower steering fluid temperature. It installs inline with the power steering hose using 11/32 inch hose barb inlets and is typically mounted where airflow can pass through the fins. In normal driving it reduces heat-related wear on the pump and seals, which can prolong component life during towing, spirited driving, or extended city traffic. The cooler’s 4-pass design increases fluid exposure to the fins for more efficient cooling than single-pass units while remaining lightweight and unobtrusive. Limitations include a basic kit-level fitment that may require custom hose routing or clamps for a clean installation on some vehicles and the need to locate the cooler where it receives adequate airflow to be effective. It is a straightforward, practical upgrade for reducing steering system temperatures without major modifications.
Best for: Balanced, all-round buyers who want a practical reliability upgrade to reduce power steering temperatures and extend component life without heavy modification.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking for a bolt-in, vehicle-specific plumbing kit with dedicated brackets and fittings or those who cannot provide an airflow location for the cooler.
- 4-pass tubing design increases fluid exposure to cooling fins for better heat dissipation
- Copper tubing expanded into aluminum fins provides good thermal transfer
- Compact, lightweight kit that is easy to tuck into tight engine bays
- Helps extend pump and seal life by reducing fluid temperature during heavy use
- May require custom hose routing or additional fittings for a clean install on some vehicles
- Effectiveness depends on mounting location and available airflow
Verdict: A compact 4-pass cooler that lowers steering fluid temperatures to help extend pump and seal life with minimal space impact.
4. Derale 13309 Power Steering Cooler Kit (Black)
| Model | Power Steering Cooler (-6AN) |
|---|---|
| Item model number | 13309 |
| Exterior | Painted |
The Derale 13309 is a small, four-pass power steering cooler kit designed to lower fluid temperatures using 1/2 inch copper tubing expanded into aluminum cooling fins and extruded plastic fin guards. It installs in-line with your power steering or auxiliary cooling circuit to improve heat dissipation under load or in towing and spirited driving. The painted finish and compact footprint make it easy to tuck into tight engine bays like the Scion tC without looking out of place. Practical features include the four-pass design for increased cooling efficiency and protective plastic fin guards to reduce debris damage. Limitations to note are its modest size and capacity compared with larger, heavier-duty coolers, so it is best for everyday drivers seeking better thermal control rather than heavy towing or extreme track use. Installation will require compatible AN fittings and basic plumbing skills or a shop visit.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want an affordable, space-efficient upgrade to lower power steering or auxiliary fluid temperatures in daily-driven Scion tC vehicles without overspending on heavy-duty gear.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently tow heavy loads or push fluid temperatures to extreme limits should choose a larger, higher-capacity cooler designed for heavy-duty duty cycles.
- Four-pass cooler design improves fluid heat exchange compared with single-pass cores
- Copper tubing bonded to aluminum fins for effective thermal transfer
- Compact, painted unit fits tight engine bays common to compact cars
- Extruded plastic fin guards help protect fins from road debris
- Smaller capacity limits effectiveness for heavy towing or extreme performance use
- Requires compatible fittings and basic plumbing skills for installation
Verdict: A compact, budget-friendly four-pass cooler that delivers noticeable temperature control for everyday Scion tC driving without taking up much space.
5. Hayden 1009 Power Steering Oil Cooler (9 inch)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 9 Inches |
| Fits Hose I.D. | 3/8 Inch |
| Construction | Tube, Fin |
The Hayden 1009 is a compact aluminum power steering oil cooler intended to lower operating temperature in hydraulic steering systems by increasing fluid surface area and airflow. It mounts inline with 3/8-inch I.D. return hose lines and is commonly used on vehicles that see towing, larger tires, or prolonged low-speed steering work where fluid heat builds up. The unit includes mounting hardware and uses a tube-and-fin, two-row construction to improve heat rejection while remaining lightweight and machined for corrosion resistance. Installation is straightforward for a competent DIYer and the cooler helps reduce wear on pumps, hoses, seals, and fluid by keeping temperatures in check. Limitations include its fixed 9-inch length and 3/8-inch fittings, which restrict fitment to systems that accept that hose size, and it is a single-purpose add-on so it does not address underlying steering component faults.
Best for: Reliability-focused owners who want to reduce steering-system heat and extend the life of pumps, seals, hoses, and fluid without major modifications.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking for universal fitment or adjustable plumbing options should consider models with multiple inlet sizes or adapter kits instead.
- Aluminum tube-and-fin construction for effective heat dissipation and corrosion resistance
- Includes mounting hardware for straightforward installation
- Designed for 3/8-inch I.D. return hose common on many power steering systems
- Compact 9-inch length fits tight engine bays where larger coolers will not
- Fixed 3/8-inch hose connection limits compatibility with systems using different hose sizes
- No adjustable fittings or adapters included for nonstandard plumbing
Verdict: A compact, aluminum inline cooler that reliably lowers power steering fluid temperature to help preserve system components.
6. Derale 13200 Power Steering Cooler Kit
| Special Feature | Expanded Copper Tubing and Aluminum Cooling Fins |
|---|---|
| Inlet Size | 11/32 inch hose barb inlets |
| Model Name | 13200 |
| Installation Type | Self-Adhesive |
The Derale 13200 is a compact power steering cooler kit intended to reduce fluid temperature and help prevent heat-related pump failure. It mounts in front of the radiator or condenser and routes steering fluid through 1/2 inch copper tubing expanded into aluminum cooling fins to shed heat during normal driving and towing. The kit includes hose barb inlets and basic hardware for bolt-on installation, making it a straightforward add-on for routine maintenance or cooling upgrades. In practice it lowers operating temperature during prolonged low-speed or high-load use and can extend pump and seal life when heat is a factor. Because it is a simple inline cooler with a medium core area, cooling is effective for daily driving and light-duty towing but may be modest compared with larger or multi-pass coolers. Installation is practical for a home mechanic but may require careful routing to avoid chafing or kinking of the lines.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a simple, low-effort upgrade to reduce steering fluid heat and prolong pump life without major modification.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently do heavy towing, competitive driving, or need maximum multi-pass cooling should consider larger or purpose-built heavy-duty coolers instead.
- Compact core with expanded copper tubing and aluminum fins for efficient heat transfer
- Includes hose barb inlets and hardware for a straightforward installation
- Small footprint fits in tight spaces ahead of the radiator or condenser
- Helps lower steering fluid temperature to reduce pump and seal stress
- Cooling capacity is moderate and may be insufficient for heavy towing or extreme-duty use
- Does not include detailed vehicle-specific fitment instructions
Verdict: A compact, easy-to-install power steering cooler that reduces fluid temperature and helps extend pump life for everyday and light-duty use.
7. Hayden Automotive 1011 Power Steering Oil Cooler
| Model | Power Steering Oil Cooler 1011 |
|---|---|
| Recommended hose I.D. | 3/8 inch |
| Exterior | Machined |
| Unit count | 1.0 Count |
| Manufacturer | Hayden Automotive |
The Hayden 1011 power steering oil cooler is an inline cooler intended to reduce operating temperature in power steering systems where heat is a concern, like vehicles with larger tires or frequent low-speed work. It installs in the return hose and comes with mounting hardware for a straightforward bolt-up. By shedding heat it helps protect the pump, hoses, seals and fluid, which can reduce premature failures and maintenance on older or heavily used systems. The unit is machined for durability and sized for systems using 3/8 inch I.D. return hose; Hayden offers similar coolers for different duty levels. Limitations are that fitment depends on hose inner diameter and available mounting space, and it does not include hose or fittings beyond the supplied bracket hardware, so installers should verify hose size and routing before purchase.
Best for: A risk-averse mainstream buyer looking to protect factory steering components on a Scion tC by reducing heat-related wear and extending service intervals.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a universal, tool-free retrofit or who cannot accommodate a small inline cooler in their engine bay should consider integrated radiator-mount options or professional installation.
- Reduces power steering fluid temperature to help prolong pump and hose life
- Machined exterior for a durable, serviceable finish
- Includes mounting hardware for simpler installation
- Sized for common 3/8 inch I.D. return hoses used in many aftermarket setups
- Requires matching hose inner diameter and enough underhood space for installation
Verdict: A compact, machined inline cooler that lowers steering fluid temperatures to help extend the life of Scion tC power steering components.
Choosing the Right Infiniti FX35 Power Steering Cooler: Key Factors to Consider
Cooling Capacity
Cooling capacity determines how much heat the cooler can remove from the steering fluid and directly affects operating temperature under load. A higher-capacity cooler will keep fluid temperatures lower during prolonged towing, aggressive driving, or heavy city traffic, which reduces wear on seals and pumps.
When evaluating capacity, consider both the core size and fin density. Larger cores with more surface area and higher fin counts move more heat to ambient air, but they also require adequate airflow. Think about your typical driving conditions to choose a capacity that balances effectiveness and available mounting space.
Fitment And Mounting Options
Fitment matters because the Infiniti FX35 has limited space in common mounting locations. A cooler that offers multiple bracket options or a slim profile increases the odds of a clean installation without interfering with other components.
Check for models that provide adjustable brackets or that can be mounted in-line with existing hoses. Ease of mounting reduces installation time and the need for additional hardware. Proper placement also affects airflow and protection from road debris, so pick a cooler with a suitable shape for your preferred mounting location.
Hose And Fitting Compatibility
Compatibility with existing hoses and fittings reduces the need for adapters and minimizes leak points. Steering systems use specific hose diameters and pressure tolerances, so confirm the cooler accepts the inlet and outlet sizes used on the Infiniti FX35 or comes with appropriate adapters.
Thread type and sealing method matter as well. Look for coolers that include high-quality fittings and crush washers or O-rings rated for hydraulic fluids. If adapters are required, factor in the availability and quality of those parts to maintain system integrity.
Construction And Corrosion Resistance
Materials and construction affect longevity in a road environment that includes salt, moisture, and debris. Coolers built from aluminum cores with corrosion-resistant coatings or stainless steel components tend to last longer and maintain thermal performance.
Weld quality, brazing, and the finish on fittings are all indicators of durability. Choose a cooler with proven corrosion protection and a robust finish to avoid premature leaks or reduced heat transfer due to pitting.
Pressure And Flow Ratings
Power steering systems operate under pressure, so the cooler must withstand the system's maximum pressure and not create a flow restriction that could harm pump performance. Manufacturers that publish maximum working pressure and recommended flow ranges give you confidence the unit will perform safely in the FX35 system.
If a cooler is undersized or rated for low flow, it can cause increased pump load or reduced steering response. Match the cooler's specifications to the vehicle's steering fluid flow and pressure characteristics to avoid unintended issues.
Serviceability And Maintenance
Serviceability covers how easy it is to inspect, clean, or replace the cooler and its hoses. A cooler mounted in an accessible spot with threaded fittings is simpler to maintain and less likely to introduce contaminants during service.
Consider whether replacement hoses or fittings are readily available and whether the kit allows for in-line filter installation if you want added protection. Easy access to the cooler also makes it simpler to check for leaks after installation and to perform periodic cleaning to maintain airflow.
How We Chose the Best Infiniti FX35 Power Steering Cooler
We limited our selection to products that explicitly list compatibility with the Infiniti FX35 or that provide the necessary hose and fitting options to adapt to that vehicle without major modification. Key evaluation criteria included measurable cooling capacity or design features that improve heat dissipation, durable construction materials that resist corrosion and pressure, and mounting versatility to fit the FX35 chassis and available locations.We also considered ease of installation, including whether the kit includes fittings and brackets sized for common FX35 plumbing, and long-term serviceability such as replaceable hoses or accessible mounting. Units that required significant custom fabrication, nonstandard fittings, or were clearly intended only for racing use were excluded. Finally, we looked for manufacturers that document pressure ratings and flow direction so buyers understand real-world compatibility and reliability.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Do I need a power steering cooler for casual driving in an Infiniti FX35?
Most casual drivers do not strictly need a cooler, but it can be beneficial if you frequently encounter hot ambient temperatures, heavy traffic, or occasional towing. A cooler reduces peak fluid temperatures, which can extend seal and pump life even in everyday use.
Where is the best place to mount a power steering cooler on an FX35?
The best location balances airflow and protection from debris. Common placements are in front of the radiator or behind the grille where air moves freely. Mounting low in the bumper area can work if there is sufficient clearance and the bracketry protects the cooler from impacts.
Will adding a cooler affect steering feel or pump performance?
A properly sized cooler with the correct fittings should not noticeably change steering feel. Problems can arise if the cooler creates a flow restriction or if incompatible fittings cause leaks. Use units that match the system's hose diameter and pressure rating to avoid adverse effects.
Can I install a power steering cooler myself on the FX35?
Many coolers are designed for DIY installation with basic tools and clear instructions, especially if they include vehicle-specific brackets and adapters. If the kit lacks fittings or requires cutting hoses, you should be comfortable with simple hydraulic work or consult a professional to avoid leaks.
How do I check if a cooler is compatible with my FX35 hoses?
Measure the inner diameter of your existing power steering hoses and inspect the thread type on the fittings. Compare those measurements to the cooler's inlet and outlet specifications or included adapter list. Manufacturers that publish detailed fitment data make compatibility checks straightforward.
Conclusion
Choosing the right power steering cooler for an Infiniti FX35 comes down to matching cooling capacity with available mounting space and confirming hose and pressure compatibility. Prioritize units that document flow and pressure ratings and that include appropriate fittings or bracket options to simplify installation.Keep in mind the tradeoffs between larger cores that offer more cooling and the physical space they require. Focus on corrosion-resistant construction and serviceability to ensure the cooler delivers long-term protection against overheating and premature component wear.
Explore More:
- Check out all Infiniti FX35 parts & accessories
- Explore Power Steering Coolers Maintenance & Repair Guides
- Explore Cooling System
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