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If your Dodge Durango runs heavy towing loads, frequent off-road miles, or long highway trips, the power steering system can run hot and accelerate wear. Choosing the right power steering cooler helps lower fluid temperatures, reduce pressure spikes, and extend the life of hoses, seals, and the steering pump. This guide covers seven shortlisted options that fit the Dodge Durango and performs well in typical use cases. We evaluated each cooler for fitment, heat rejection, and build quality to highlight choices that balance reliability and installation practicality. Continue for the factors that matter and what to expect when adding a cooler to your Durango.
Looking for other parts? See all Dodge Durango parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Edelmann Elite Power Steering Cooler 58019 for Dodge Durango / Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011–2015) |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Derale 13200 Power Steering Cooler Kit |  |
| Best budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Hayden Automotive Power Steering Oil Cooler (Model 1012) |  |
| 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 | Hayden Automotive 1011 Power Steering Oil Cooler |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | A-Premium Power Steering Oil Cooler for Jeep Grand Cherokee & Dodge Durango (2011–2015) |  |
1. Edelmann Elite Power Steering Cooler 58019 for Dodge Durango / Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011–2015)
| Manufacturer | Plews & Edelmann |
|---|---|
| Brand | Edelmann |
| Model | 58019 |
| Compatible vehicles | Dodge Durango 2015-2011, Jeep Grand Cherokee 2015-2011 |
This Edelmann Elite power steering cooler is a direct-fit cooler engineered to lower fluid temperatures in Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee steering systems from 2011 through 2015. It installs in-line with the power steering circuit to increase heat dissipation and reduce stress on pumps, hoses, seals, and fluid when the system is under heavy load such as towing, larger tires, or aggressive driving. Built to factory-spec dimensions and manufactured with high-temperature furnace brazing, the cooler aims for durable, leak-resistant construction and tighter tolerances than many aftermarket alternatives. In practice it improves long-term reliability by keeping operating temperatures down, which can prolong pump life and maintain steering responsiveness during repeated hard use. Limitations are straightforward: it is a supplemental cooler not a pump replacement so it will not fix mechanical failures, and installation requires basic access to the steering lines and mounting space in the engine bay. For performance-focused owners looking to protect a stressed steering system, it is a practical, well-made upgrade.
Best for: Performance-oriented drivers who want to protect and extend the life of their steering system under heavy use such as towing, off-road driving, or larger-tire setups.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a replacement pump or diagnostic repair rather than a supplemental cooling upgrade should look elsewhere.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011–2015 for easier installation
- High-temperature furnace brazing for durable, leak-resistant construction
- Designed to reduce power steering fluid temperatures and extend component life
- Does not replace a failing pump or resolve mechanical steering faults
Verdict: A factory-spec supplemental cooler built to lower steering fluid temperatures and protect power steering components on 2011–2015 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee models.
2. 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.
3. Hayden Automotive Power Steering Oil Cooler (Model 1012)
| Liquid Volume | 1.87 Liters |
|---|---|
| Upper Temperature Rating | 257 Degrees Fahrenheit |
| SAE J300 Viscosity Grade | 20W-50 |
| Item Form | Oil |
The Hayden Automotive 1012 power steering oil cooler installs inline to reduce operating temperature of power steering fluid and help prolong the life of the pump and hoses. It is factory tested and intended for straightforward installation in vehicles that accept an inline cooler; typical use is on street-driven cars where the steering system runs warm from sustained low-speed maneuvering or towing. The cooler is supplied as a single unit and uses vehicle fluid lines for connection, so it adds cooling capacity without complex plumbing. Practical benefits include lower fluid temperatures under load and a simple plug-in replacement-style fit for compatible setups. Limitations are that the listing provides minimal fitment guidance specific to the Scion tC, and some installations may require brackets or hose adapters not included. Buyers should verify hose sizing and mounting options before purchase.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners seeking an affordable way to reduce steering fluid temperatures and extend component life without major system changes.
Less Ideal for: Owners who need guaranteed vehicle-specific fitment, included mounting hardware, or a full kit with hoses and fittings should consider a complete cooler kit or professional-installed option.
- Factory-tested unit for consistent performance
- Designed to lower power steering fluid temperature and extend component life
- Single-unit supply simplifies installation for compatible inline setups
- No vehicle-specific fitment information or hardware such as mounting brackets or hose adapters included
Verdict: A low-cost, factory-tested inline cooler that helps lower steering fluid temperatures and protect pump and hoses.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. A-Premium Power Steering Oil Cooler for Jeep Grand Cherokee & Dodge Durango (2011–2015)
| Vehicle Fitment | Dodge Durango 2011-2015; Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2011-2015 |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Fitting Type | Male Tube |
| OEM Number | 918-340, 68069651AC/AB/AA/AD |
This A-Premium power steering oil cooler is a direct-fit replacement for select 2011–2015 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 engines and is intended to lower power steering fluid temperature to reduce wear and maintain steering performance. It installs using the vehicle's male-tube fittings and comes in a metal construction that should withstand typical underhood conditions. The length and fitting dimensions match factory connections so it can be swapped in without modifying lines on most covered models. Practical benefits are improved cooling under towing or heavy-use conditions and restoring proper fluid temperatures if a worn cooler was causing overheating. Limitations include no gasket or seal included with the unit and the need to verify compatibility with the exact engine and OEM reference numbers before purchase. Expect routine installation to require standard hand tools and basic steering system bleeding afterward.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers seeking a reliable, factory-style replacement to restore proper power steering cooling on a daily-driven Dodge Durango or Jeep Grand Cherokee without chasing performance upgrades.
Less Ideal for: Owners looking for high-performance aftermarket cooling upgrades or universal coolers for multiple vehicles should consider purpose-built options instead.
- Direct-fit design for 2011–2015 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 simplifies replacement
- Aluminum construction offers good heat dissipation and corrosion resistance
- Fitting dimensions provided for straightforward connection to existing male tube fittings
- Matches OEM reference numbers listed for easier cross-referencing
- No gasket or seal included, so additional parts may be required at installation
- Limited to the specified vehicle models and model years
Verdict: A practical factory-style aluminum replacement cooler that restores proper power steering fluid temperatures on compatible 2011–2015 Durango and Grand Cherokee models.
Choosing the Right Dodge Durango Power Steering Cooler: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment And Mounting
Physical compatibility with the Dodge Durango is essential because engine bay space and factory mounting points vary by model year and trim. A cooler that lists explicit fitment or includes universal mounting hardware with adjustable brackets reduces installation time and the risk of clearance issues.
Consider the cooler's overall dimensions, inlet/outlet locations, and whether it can be mounted in front of the condenser, on a bracket near the radiator, or behind a bumper opening without rubbing other components. Proper mounting affects airflow, vibration resistance, and the longevity of hoses and fittings.
Cooling Capacity
Cooling capacity determines how effectively the unit lowers fluid temperature under sustained load. Larger core area, multi-pass tube and fin designs, and denser fin counts typically increase heat rejection, which matters during towing, steep terrain, or stop-and-go conditions.
Look for specifications or manufacturer guidance on expected temperature drop at typical flow rates. A cooler that can consistently remove heat without causing excessive pressure drop will better protect seals, hoses, and the steering pump.
Flow Restriction And Pressure Drop
Power steering systems rely on specific flow rates and pressures, so adding a cooler should not impede fluid movement or introduce unacceptable backpressure. High restriction can increase load on the pump and reduce steering feel.
Choose designs with smooth internal passages and appropriately sized fittings to maintain factory flow. If a kit alters hose routing or uses smaller-diameter fittings, verify that the expected pressure drop stays within safe limits for the Durango's steering system.
Materials And Corrosion Resistance
Durability in the engine bay depends on corrosion-resistant materials and protective finishes. Aluminum cores are common for weight and thermal conductivity, but quality varies based on wall thickness, brazing, and coating.
Check for powder-coating, anodizing, or other protective treatments, and prefer fittings and brackets made from stainless steel or plated hardware to resist road salt and moisture. Better materials reduce the risk of leaks and extend service life.
Hose And Fitting Compatibility
A good cooler integrates with the Durango's existing hose sizes and fitting types to simplify installation. Kits that include braided hoses, correct-size adapters, and leak-resistant fittings minimize the chance of mis-matched components.
If a cooler requires custom hoses or adapters, factor in additional parts and potential leak points. Confirm thread types, O-ring requirements, and clamp styles to ensure a reliable seal and straightforward maintenance.
Ease Of Installation And Serviceability
Installation complexity affects whether you can fit the cooler yourself or need professional help. Units that include clear instructions, vehicle-specific brackets, and all necessary hardware reduce installation time and hidden costs.
Also consider future service needs like accessibility for hose replacement and leak inspection. A cooler positioned for easy visual checks and with standard fittings will simplify routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
How We Chose the Best Dodge Durango Power Steering Cooler
We focused on products designed to work with the Dodge Durango and judged each candidate on concrete, category-specific criteria. Key evaluation points included physical fitment and mounting options for Durango under-hood layouts, cooling capacity measured by surface area and tube/fin design, and recommended flow rates that avoid restricting steering fluid. We also weighed construction materials and corrosion resistance, hose and fitting compatibility with typical Durango lines, and the availability of complete installation hardware or a powder-coated mounting bracket. Units lacking clear fitment data for the Durango, those with questionable hose or fitting compatibility, or coolers using low-quality materials or thin fins were excluded. We did not consider options intended for unrelated vehicle types or those without clear installation instructions. The result is a set of shortlisted coolers that meet practical durability, compatibility, and cooling performance standards for Dodge Durango owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will adding a power steering cooler stop overheating issues in my Dodge Durango?
A properly sized cooler often reduces steering fluid temperatures during heavy use, which can lower the chance of overheating-related symptoms. However, it depends on root causes; existing leaks, a failing pump, or severe internal contamination will not be solved by a cooler alone. Treat the cooler as a preventative or mitigating measure combined with diagnosing underlying system problems.
Can I install a power steering cooler myself?
Many owners can install a cooler with basic mechanical skills and common tools if the kit includes vehicle-specific brackets and clear instructions. Installation usually involves routing hoses, mounting the core, and bleeding the system. If the kit is universal or you lack experience with hydraulic lines, consider professional installation to avoid leaks or improper routing.
How do I know what size cooler my Durango needs?
Choose a cooler based on anticipated load and space constraints. Larger cores with greater surface area suit towing and heavy-duty use, while smaller units may be fine for urban driving. Verify that the cooler fits the available mounting locations and that fittings match your Durango's hoses to avoid flow restriction.
Will a cooler affect steering feel or pump performance?
A well-designed cooler should have minimal impact on steering feel if it maintains proper flow and low pressure drop. Problems arise when fittings are undersized or the cooler introduces excessive restriction, which can increase pump work. Select a unit rated for hydraulic steering applications and compatible hose diameters to preserve normal operation.
How often should I inspect or maintain a power steering cooler?
Inspect the cooler and connections during regular service intervals or after heavy use. Look for fluid leaks, bent fins, or damaged hoses. Periodic checks of hose clamps and fittings help prevent slow leaks. There is no set replacement interval, but any sign of damage or persistent leakage warrants repair or replacement.
Are aftermarket power steering coolers a reliable upgrade for the Dodge Durango?
Aftermarket coolers can be a reliable enhancement when chosen for correct fitment, cooling capacity, and build quality. Reliability depends on materials, installation quality, and whether the unit matches the Durango's system requirements. Prioritize products with clear fitment guidance and robust construction for the best results.
Conclusion
Choose a power steering cooler for your Dodge Durango by prioritizing fitment, cooling capacity, and low flow restriction. These factors determine whether the cooler will reduce fluid temperatures without compromising steering performance. Balance durable materials and correct fittings against installation complexity. For heavy towing or frequent demanding driving, favor larger cores and proven mounting options; for light use, compact units that match hose sizes will usually suffice.
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- Check out all Dodge Durango parts & accessories
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