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If you drive a Subaru Crosstrek and want steadier oil temperatures under load, the right oil cooler can make a measurable difference in engine longevity and performance. You face choices about cooling capacity, fitment, and installation complexity, and picking the right option affects how your vehicle handles highway towing, spirited driving, or hot-weather conditions. This guide highlights seven shortlisted oil coolers for the Crosstrek that met our selection criteria. Below we summarize how each option performs on key factors like cooling efficiency and ease of installation before the detailed reviews.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | DriveMedley Transmission Oil Cooler (8-pass, Aluminum) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Readair Engine Coolant Radiator with Transmission Oil Cooler for Subaru Crosstrek/Forester/Impreza |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | A-Premium Radiator Assembly with Transmission Oil Cooler for Subaru Crosstrek 2016–2017 2.5L Automatic |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Magimaker Transmission Oil Cooler 31237AA100 Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek/Outback/Forester |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | A-Premium 8‑Pass Aluminum Transmission Oil Cooler Kit |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | BARTOO 1/2" Transmission Cooler — 16-Pass Aluminium Tube-and-Fin |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | EVIL ENERGY 30-Row Stacked-Plate Oil Cooler (10AN fittings) |  |
1. DriveMedley Transmission Oil Cooler (8-pass, Aluminum)
| Core design | 8 pass tube-and-fin |
|---|---|
| Connection size | 5/16 inch ID lines |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Operating hose temp range | -40 to 257°F |
This DriveMedley transmission oil cooler is a compact, aftermarket aluminum unit intended to reduce transmission fluid temperatures by routing fluid through an 8-pass tube-and-fin core while air flows across the fins. It is typically mounted on the vehicle front where airflow is available and connects to 5/16 inch ID transmission lines with the included fittings and brackets. The cooler’s aluminum construction and fin design improve heat transfer, and the CPE hoses are rated for a wide temperature range and high peak pressure, which helps durability under load. For a Subaru Crosstrek, this type of cooler can provide extra protection during towing, mountain driving, or repeated high-load shifts by lowering fluid temps and slowing fluid degradation. Limitations are that it is a universal cooler so fitment may require extra trimming, custom brackets, or routing to avoid interference with factory components, and installation requires basic mechanical skills and hose routing care to prevent kinks or contact with hot/exhaust parts.
Best for: Reliability-focused owners who prioritize extending transmission life under heavier duty or repeated high-load driving and who are willing to fit a universal aftermarket cooler to their Crosstrek.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking for a bolt-in, vehicle-specific factory-replacement cooler or those who want a purely plug-and-play upgrade without any custom mounting or routing work.
- 8-pass tube-and-fin core for improved heat transfer compared with simpler single-pass coolers
- Aluminum construction resists corrosion and dissipates heat efficiently
- Supplied CPE hoses rated for wide temperature range and high peak pressure
- Compact profile that fits into tighter front-end spaces with creative mounting
- Universal design may require custom mounting or modification for clean fitment on a Crosstrek
- No vehicle-specific instructions or guaranteed fitment for Subaru Crosstrek
- Smaller core height may offer less cooling capacity than larger application-specific coolers under extreme continuous loads
Verdict A compact, reliability-minded aftermarket transmission cooler that can lower fluid temperatures on a Subaru Crosstrek but may require custom fitment and installation.
2. Readair Engine Coolant Radiator with Transmission Oil Cooler for Subaru Crosstrek/Forester/Impreza
| Transmission Oil Cooler Included | Yes |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil Cooler Included | No |
| Core Height | 13-3/8 inch |
| Core Thickness | 5/8 inch |
| Core Width | 27-1/16 inch |
This Readair radiator replaces the factory unit and includes a brass transmission oil cooler built into the assembly, so it handles both engine cooling and transmission fluid cooling without additional plumbing. It is intended as a direct-fit replacement on compatible Subaru H4 automatic-transmission models and is typically used when a worn or leaking radiator needs a one-for-one swap. The aluminum core with plastic inlet/outlet tanks and a treated coating aims to resist leaks and corrosion, and the unit is TIG-welded for stronger joints. Practical benefits include saved time over custom solutions since the integrated oil cooler eliminates adding a separate cooler, and many buyers report factory-like fit and easy installation when following vehicle-specific guides. Important limitations are variability in quality control reported by some users and the fact that longevity depends on correct installation and coolant maintenance; some buyers experienced early tank cracks. Budget-conscious buyers should weigh the convenience of a ready-made assembly against potential durability concerns.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a ready-made, direct replacement that restores both engine and transmission cooling without modifying the vehicle or adding extra components.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking the most durable, heavy-duty cooling upgrades or long-term race use should consider higher-end all-metal or performance-focused coolers instead.
- Direct-fit design with integrated transmission oil cooler for a single replacement part
- Aluminum core with TIG-welded joints for improved heat transfer and structural strength
- Treated coating and leak testing intended to reduce corrosion and early leaks
- Many users report accurate fit and straightforward installation compared with aftermarket modifications
- Some reviewers report inconsistent quality control, including tank cracks and early leaks
- Plastic inlet/outlet tanks are less robust than full-metal designs
Verdict If you want a convenient, direct-fit radiator that also cools transmission fluid on compatible Subaru H4 automatics, this assembly saves installation time, but expect mixed reports on long-term durability.
3. A-Premium Radiator Assembly with Transmission Oil Cooler for Subaru Crosstrek 2016–2017 2.5L Automatic
| Vehicle fitment | Subaru Crosstrek 2016-2017 2.5L Automatic |
|---|---|
| Transmission oil cooler included | Yes |
| Engine oil cooler included | No |
| Core height | 13-3/8 inch |
| Core thickness | 5/8 inch |
This A-Premium radiator assembly swaps into the Subaru Crosstrek 2016–2017 2.5L automatic as a direct replacement and integrates a transmission oil cooler for combined engine and trans cooling. It is used to replace a failed or leaking factory radiator and to restore normal operating temperatures for the engine and transmission by routing coolant and providing a separate heat-exchange path for transmission fluid. Notable features include the integrated transmission cooler and factory-style connections intended to match Subaru routing. In practice buyers report generally good fit and packaging and several installations that behave like a factory-quality part. Limits to consider are that some installers find the transmission line fittings a bit fiddly to tighten and a few users in cold climates reported durability issues over months; heavier-duty OEM units may resist physical damage and temperature cycling better. For a performance-oriented Crosstrek looking to maintain cooler trans temps without separate aftermarket coolers, this is a practical, space-saving replacement option.
Best for: Performance-oriented Crosstrek owners who prioritize preserving transmission temperatures and want a single replacement part that restores cooling functionality without adding external coolers.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning heavy towing, racing, or sustained high-load use who need a dedicated aftermarket transmission cooler with higher capacity and extra durability should consider purpose-built coolers instead.
- Integrated transmission oil cooler eliminates the need for a separate add-on cooler
- Designed to match factory mounting and hose routing for straightforward replacement
- Well packaged and arrives ready for installation according to multiple user reports
- Some transmission line connections reported as difficult to tighten and potentially prone to minor leaks
- A few users reported durability problems in very cold climates compared with OEM units
Verdict A space-saving, factory-style radiator with an integrated transmission cooler that works well for maintaining trans temps on a Crosstrek but may not match heavy-duty OEM durability for extreme use.
4. Magimaker Transmission Oil Cooler 31237AA100 Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek/Outback/Forester
| Brand | Magimaker |
|---|---|
| Model | 31237AA100 |
| Exterior | Metal |
This Magimaker transmission oil cooler is a budget replacement designed to match the factory part number 31237AA100 for select Subaru Crosstrek, Outback, Forester, WRX, and Impreza applications. It installs in place of the original cooler and works continuously to lower and stabilize transmission oil temperature, which can improve lubrication and reduce wear during towing, hill driving, or heavy use. The unit is metal-bodied and marketed as thoroughly tested for durability, and several user reports indicate straightforward fitment when the part number matches. Practical benefits include maintaining oil viscosity under load and potentially extending transmission life without the cost of an OEM cooler. Limitations are typical of low-cost aftermarket parts: fitment depends entirely on confirming the part number for your vehicle, and long-term reliability is less documented than factory replacements. Expect a simple swap for DIY installers or professional shops, but if you need confirmed long-term durability or extended warranty coverage, consider higher-end options.
Best for: Budget-conscious Subaru Crosstrek owners looking for an affordable, direct-replacement transmission oil cooler to restore cooling function without replacing OEM components.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a heavy-duty or performance-grade cooler for severe towing, track use, or long-term high-load applications should consider upgraded aftermarket or factory-quality coolers instead.
- Made to replace Subaru part number 31237AA100 for direct-fit installation when correct match is confirmed
- Metal construction intended to handle transmission oil temperatures and provide basic durability
- Helps maintain optimal transmission oil temperature to improve lubrication and reduce wear
- Low-cost option compared with factory replacement, suitable for budget repairs
- Limited long-term reliability data compared with factory or premium aftermarket coolers
- Fitment requires careful verification of the vehicle part number before purchase
Verdict A cost-effective direct-replacement cooler for Crosstrek owners who need a quick, budget repair but not a high-end performance upgrade.
5. A-Premium 8‑Pass Aluminum Transmission Oil Cooler Kit
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Core type | 8 pass tube and fin |
| Reference numbers | 1405, 405, 53003 |
This A-Premium kit is an 8‑pass tube-and-fin aluminum transmission oil cooler supplied with silicone hose and a simple mounting kit. It is designed to be plumbed inline with your transmission cooler circuit to pull extra heat out of fluid during towing, hill climbs, or prolonged highway runs. The 8‑pass core offers more surface area than single‑pass coolers, so in real use it can lower fluid temps noticeably when mounted behind the grille or in front of an existing condenser. The kit includes hose and fittings but reviewers commonly report needing additional barbed fittings or stronger clamps for a leak‑proof installation and that brackets are minimal. Build quality appears solid for an aftermarket universal cooler, though you will need to plan mounting points and possibly buy adapter fittings for the factory lines. For a risk‑averse Crosstrek owner this offers a straightforward way to add extra cooling capacity, but expect a modest DIY install and a couple of extra parts to achieve a clean, durable fit.
Best for: Crosstrek owners who prioritize protecting their transmission and want a conservative, low‑risk upgrade to lower operating temperatures during towing or sustained uphill driving.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a bolt‑in, vehicle‑specific cooler with full factory‑style fittings and brackets should consider a model engineered specifically for the Crosstrek instead.
- 8‑pass aluminum tube-and-fin core provides substantial extra cooling capacity compared with single‑pass cores
- Includes silicone hose and basic mounting hardware so you can complete most installs without sourcing major components
- Universal design can be positioned to maximize airflow when mounted in front of the radiator or condenser
- Many users report meaningful transmission temperature drops after installation
- Minimal bracketry and fittings included so additional adapter fittings or stronger clamps are often required
- Universal kit requires planning and fabrication for a tidy, factory‑quality installation
- Not vehicle‑specific so fitment and hose routing must be verified for the Crosstrek
Verdict A cost‑effective universal 8‑pass cooler that meaningfully reduces transmission temperatures but needs extra fittings and careful mounting for a clean Crosstrek installation.
6. BARTOO 1/2" Transmission Cooler — 16-Pass Aluminium Tube-and-Fin
| Core type | 16 pass tube-and-fin |
|---|---|
| Material | T-6061 aluminium |
| Compatible line ID | 1/2" ID |
| Working pressure | 145 psi |
| Burst pressure | 900 psi |
This BARTOO transmission cooler is a budget-friendly, universal aftercooler built from T-6061 aluminium with a 16-pass tube-and-fin core that helps shed heat from automatic transmission fluid. It is typically installed in front of the radiator or behind the grille where airflow is good and connects to 1/2" ID transmission lines using standard fittings. In practice the cooler lowers fluid temperature, which can reduce thermal stress during towing or spirited driving and extend fluid life. Notable features include a high working pressure rating and a multi-pass design for improved heat transfer, plus relatively compact dimensions that make it easy to fit into tight Crosstrek front-end spaces. Limitations are its universal fit approach rather than Crosstrek-specific brackets, so expect to fabricate or adapt mounts and source the correct fittings or adapters for Subaru lines. Build quality is solid for the price but some users report certain fittings or ports can chip if overtightened, so install carefully with proper torque and thread sealant.
Best for: A practical optimizer seeking the best cooling performance per dollar who is comfortable adapting mounting points and sourcing small fittings to tailor a universal cooler to a Crosstrek.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who want a plug-and-play, vehicle-specific kit with factory-style brackets and fittings or who prefer professional OEM-fit installations without modification.
- 16-pass tube-and-fin core offers efficient heat transfer for a compact unit
- T-6061 aluminium construction with high working and burst pressure ratings
- Compact footprint that fits into limited front-end spaces
- Simple universal design installs in standard 1/2" ID transmission lines
- No Subaru Crosstrek-specific mounting hardware provided requiring bracket fabrication or modifications
- Universal fittings may need adapters to match Subaru factory line ends
- Some users report fragile threads or ports if fittings are overtightened
Verdict A cost-effective, compact cooler that delivers strong cooling for a Crosstrek when you are willing to adapt mounts and fittings rather than needing a vehicle-specific kit.
7. EVIL ENERGY 30-Row Stacked-Plate Oil Cooler (10AN fittings)
| Oil capacity | 0.74 L |
|---|---|
| Test pressure | 116 PSI |
| Burst pressure | 232 PSI |
| Material | Aluminum alloy |
This EVIL ENERGY 30-row stacked-plate oil cooler is a compact aluminum unit intended to lower oil temps and improve lubrication on high-heat applications. It installs where there is good airflow and connects via -AN fittings, which makes it straightforward to integrate with braided lines or aftermarket adapters. The stacked-plate design gives higher cooling efficiency in a smaller footprint than tube-and-fin cores, so it is useful for tight engine bays or engine-swap setups. Buyers will appreciate the included mounting holes and the ability to add brackets for a tidy installation. Important limitations: the unit is a universal part so specific fittings or adapters are often required for a proper hookup to a Subaru Crosstrek, and some users report occasional fitting failures or the need for careful installation to avoid stress on connections. For heavier-duty or high-horsepower builds a larger core may be necessary to achieve bigger temperature drops.
Best for: Balanced all-round buyers who want a compact, efficient oil cooler to reduce operating oil temperatures on a Crosstrek and are willing to plan fittings and mounting before installation.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a direct bolt-on, vehicle-specific cooler or those planning extreme high-power builds that need much larger cores should consider purpose-made or higher-capacity options instead.
- High cooling efficiency from stacked-plate design in a compact package
- -AN fittings simplify hookup to aftermarket braided lines
- Multiple mounting holes for flexible bracket placement
- Aluminum construction resists corrosion and is lightweight
- Universal design may require adapters or custom brackets for a direct Subaru Crosstrek fit
- Some reviewers report fitting breakage or durability issues under heavy use
Verdict A compact, efficient stacked-plate cooler that works well for general Crosstrek cooling upgrades if you prepare for fittings and mounting adaptations.
Choosing the Right Subaru Crosstrek Oil Cooler: Key Factors to Consider
Cooling Capacity
Cooling capacity determines how much heat the oil cooler can remove during sustained high-load driving. Higher capacity units use larger cores, more rows, or denser fin patterns to increase surface area and airflow, which reduces oil temperatures more effectively.
You should match capacity to your driving: routine commuting needs modest cooling, while towing, track days, or heavy-load use require greater capacity. Keep in mind that larger coolers can introduce higher pressure drop and may need careful plumbing to preserve oil flow rates.
Fitment and Mounting
Fitment is crucial because the engine bay on the Crosstrek offers limited space and specific mounting points. A cooler that follows the vehicle's available mounting locations reduces the need for custom brackets or trimming.
Evaluate how the cooler mounts relative to airflow paths, crash structures, and other components. Proper mounting minimizes vibration and potential interference with wiring, hoses, or steering components, which affects both safety and longevity.
Core Design and Materials
Core design and construction affect heat transfer efficiency and durability. Multi-row cores, brazed-aluminum construction, and optimized fin geometry typically offer better thermal performance and resistance to vibration.
Materials matter for corrosion resistance and lifespan. Aluminum cores are common for weight and conductive properties, but coatings and quality of end tanks and seams influence how the cooler holds up to road salt and temperature cycling.
Compatibility With Factory Plumbing
Some oil coolers connect directly to stock oil lines, while others require adapter fittings or replacement lines. Choosing a solution that works with the Crosstrek's factory plumbing reduces installation time and risk of leaks.
If adapters or replacement lines are needed, confirm thread types, hose diameters, and sealing methods to avoid common oil cooler leak symptoms like seepage at connectors or hose failures. Ease of sourcing compatible hoses and fittings also affects long-term maintenance.
Installation Complexity
Installation complexity ranges from straightforward bolt-on kits to systems requiring line rerouting and bracket fabrication. Consider the tools, mechanical skill, and time needed for the job.
If you plan to DIY, pick a kit designed for Crosstrek fitment with clear instructions and minimal disassembly. For more complex installs involving core relocation or transmission oil cooler integration, professional installation can reduce the risk of mistakes that could lead to leaks or oil pressure issues.
Serviceability and Parts Availability
Long-term ownership favors systems with replaceable components such as cores, hoses, and fittings. Easy access to replacement oil cooler cores and lines helps keep maintenance straightforward and can extend service life.
Consider whether seals, o-rings, and adapters are standard sizes or proprietary. Readily available parts reduce downtime, and designs that allow partial repair rather than full replacement often lower lifetime ownership costs.
FAQ
How do I tell if my Crosstrek needs an oil cooler?
You may notice higher than normal oil temperatures during sustained heavy use, frequent oil top-ups, or the vehicle running hotter than usual under load. Those signs often indicate the engine could benefit from additional oil cooling. Confirm with an oil temperature gauge or a diagnostic check before modifying the cooling system.
Will adding an oil cooler cause oil pressure problems?
Properly designed systems preserve oil pressure by minimizing excessive flow restriction. However, incorrect hose sizes, restrictive cores, or poor fittings can create pressure drops. Use components sized for the engine's flow rate and follow manufacturer guidance to avoid pressure-related issues.
Can I install an oil cooler myself on a Crosstrek?
Many bolt-on kits are designed for owner installation with standard tools, but difficulty varies by kit. Expect tasks such as draining oil, routing hoses, and securing brackets. If the kit requires line modifications or routing through tight spaces, professional installation may be safer.
Are oil cooler leaks common and how are they diagnosed?
Leaks most often occur at connections, hose ends, or damaged cores. Common symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle, drop in oil level, or oily residue near fittings. Inspect fittings and hoses visually and use a pressure or dye test if needed to locate the source.
Does an oil cooler help with towing?
Yes, additional oil cooling can reduce sustained oil temperatures during towing, which helps maintain oil viscosity and engine protection under load. Choose a system sized for the additional thermal load towing imposes and ensure robust mounting for the added stress.
What maintenance does an oil cooler require?
Regularly inspect hoses and fittings for signs of wear, check for external debris on the core that can block airflow, and monitor oil levels and temperature. Replace damaged hoses, clamps, or seals promptly to prevent leaks and maintain cooling performance.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Crosstrek Oil Cooler
We focused on parts and kits that specifically fit the Subaru Crosstrek platform and offer measurable improvements in oil temperature management. Selection prioritized cooling capacity under sustained load, physical fit and mounting options for the Crosstrek engine bay, compatibility with factory oil lines or available adapters, and evidence of durable construction such as quality cores and corrosion-resistant materials. We also considered installation complexity and the availability of replacement components like lines and fittings, since ease of maintenance matters to many owners.We excluded universal-fit items that require major fabrication or significant modification to chassis or plumbing. Also omitted were solutions that only provided minimal temperature benefit or lacked clear specifications for flow rate and core design. The result is a group of candidates that balance thermal performance, fitment confidence, and serviceability for Crosstrek owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choosing the right oil cooler for a Subaru Crosstrek means balancing cooling capacity, fitment simplicity, and long-term serviceability. Prioritize systems that match your typical driving load and offer reliable connections to the vehicle's plumbing.Remember that larger coolers improve temperature control but can increase installation complexity and potential pressure drop. Focus on fitment for the Crosstrek, quality core construction, and easy access to replacement parts to get the most durable solution.
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- Check out all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories
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