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If your Infiniti QX60 sees heavy towing, frequent stop-and-go driving, or spirited use, its power steering system can run hotter than intended. Choosing the right Infiniti QX60 power steering cooler helps protect seals, hoses, and the pump from heat-related wear and sudden failure. This guide presents seven shortlisted coolers that meet common fitment and performance needs for the QX60 and explains the factors that guided our choices. Below you will find concise notes on each top pick and what makes it suitable for different driving demands.
Looking for other parts? See all Infiniti QX60 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Derale 13309 Power Steering Cooler Kit (Black) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Nissens Power Steering Oil Cooler 90633 |  |
| 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 | Hayden Automotive 1011 Power Steering Oil Cooler |  |
| 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 1010 Power Steering Oil Cooler |  |
1. 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.
2. Nissens Power Steering Oil Cooler 90633
| Manufacturer | Nissens |
|---|---|
| Model | Power Steering Oil Cooler |
| Item model number | 90633 |
| Position | Left |
| Exterior | Machined |
The Nissens Power Steering Oil Cooler 90633 is a direct-fit heat exchanger intended to lower power steering fluid temperatures and improve system reliability under sustained or demanding driving. It installs in place of the original cooler and channels fluid through a machined aluminum core to shed heat before it returns to the steering rack or pump. Typical use is on vehicles that see towing, spirited driving, or extended idling where steering fluid can overheat and cause premature wear or reduced steering performance. Notable features include factory-style construction, internal pressure impulse testing during development, and a machined exterior finish that resists corrosion. In practice it reduces thermal stress on hoses, seals, and pump internals and can extend component life and maintain firmer steering feel during heavy use. Limitations are standard for standalone coolers: it requires proper hose routing and secure mounting to be effective and it does not address unrelated steering system issues like worn rack components.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners seeking to protect steering components during towing or spirited driving and who prioritize cooling upgrades that maintain factory-quality fit and function.
Less Ideal for: Casual drivers who do not subject their vehicle to heavy loads or repeated high-temperature use and those looking to repair mechanical steering faults rather than manage fluid temperature.
- Factory-quality construction tested with pressure impulse protocols for long service life
- Machined exterior finish and aluminum core improve corrosion resistance and heat transfer
- Designed to reduce steering fluid temperature during heavy or prolonged use
- Direct-fit replacement that integrates with existing power steering lines and mounts
- Requires correct hose routing and secure mounting to achieve advertised cooling benefits
- Does not fix mechanical steering wear or internal rack issues
Verdict: A durable, factory-quality power steering cooler built to lower fluid temperatures and protect steering components during demanding driving.
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. 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.
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 1010 Power Steering Oil Cooler
| Part Number | 1010 |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Liquid Volume | 100 Milliliters |
| Item Form | Oil |
| Included Components | 1010 |
The Hayden 1010 power steering oil cooler is a simple inline cooler intended to lower power steering fluid temperatures in vehicles that see heavy steering loads. It installs in the return hose using the supplied rubber hoses, clamps, and mounting hardware and is typically placed where airflow can pass over the fins. The stainless steel/aluminum construction and finned core provide heat dissipation that reviewers report can drop fluid temperatures substantially, which helps preserve pump seals, hoses, and fluid life. For an Infiniti QX60 this cooler would be used when towing, running large tires, or when the factory cooler is damaged or marginal. Installation is straightforward for a DIYer but the supplied hoses can be a bit short and the fins are relatively delicate, so careful routing and a secure mount are important to avoid contact or bending. This unit is aimed at longevity and ease of fitment rather than maximum heavy-duty cooling capacity, so users expecting transmission-grade cooling should consider a dedicated transmission cooler instead.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who prioritize protecting the factory steering system and prefer a straightforward, proven add-on to prevent overheating during towing or heavy steering use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking maximum heavy-duty or transmission-level cooling capacity or who want a beefier, reinforcement-style cooler; those unwilling to make small routing adjustments during installation should consider a professional install or an alternative kit.
- Designed to lower power steering fluid temperature to protect pump, hoses, seals and fluid
- Includes mounting hardware and basic hoses and clamps for direct inline installation
- Finned core and stainless steel material aid heat dissipation and corrosion resistance
- Supplied rubber hose may be shorter than needed for some installations
- Fins are relatively delicate and can bend if contacted during installation or service
Verdict: A compact, easy-to-install cooler that lowers power steering fluid temperature to help extend steering system life.
Choosing the Right Infiniti QX60 Power Steering Cooler: Key Factors to Consider
Cooling Capacity and Core Size
A cooler's core size and internal design determine how effectively it sheds heat. Larger core surface area and multi-pass flow paths increase heat transfer and lower fluid temperature more consistently during prolonged loads.
If you tow, drive in traffic, or operate in hot climates, prioritize a cooler with higher thermal capacity. Keep in mind that excessively large assemblies may complicate mounting, so balance required cooling performance with available space in the QX60's engine bay.
Fitment and Mounting Options
Proper fitment ensures the cooler mounts securely and receives adequate airflow. Look for units that offer vehicle-specific brackets or flexible mounting points that align with the QX60 firewall, frame, or radiator support.
Mounting location affects both cooling effectiveness and hose routing. A well-placed cooler avoids kinks in lines and minimizes exposure to road debris while still getting sufficient airflow for passive cooling.
Material Quality and Corrosion Resistance
Materials determine durability against road salts, moisture, and vibration. Aluminum cores and brass or plated fittings are common because they combine thermal conductivity with corrosion resistance.
Weld quality, brazing, and protective coatings also matter. Inferior materials can corrode or leak over time, so choose units with robust construction to reduce the chance of premature failure in everyday driving conditions.
Pressure Rating and Fluid Compatibility
Power steering systems operate under pressure, so the cooler and its fittings must tolerate expected system pressures and the chemical nature of the fluid. Check that hoses and fittings have ratings that exceed the QX60 system's operational pressures.
Compatibility with common power steering fluids and resistance to swelling or degradation will preserve sealing surfaces and hose integrity, decreasing leak risk and maintenance needs.
Hose and Fitting Quality
Hoses and fittings form the connection between the cooler and the steering system, and their quality affects both sealing and ease of installation. Look for reinforced hoses, crimped fittings, and correct thread types or adapters to match the QX60.
Poor fittings can loosen or leak under vibration and pressure. Higher-quality kits often include stainless or plated fittings and well-terminated hoses that resist abrasion and heat exposure.
Installation Complexity and Serviceability
Ease of installation affects how likely an owner or technician will route lines correctly and secure the cooler in a protected location. Kits that include clear brackets, hoses sized to fit, and straightforward instructions reduce installation time and error.
Consider future serviceability too. Coolers with accessible locations and standard fittings simplify fluid changes, inspections, or replacement without major disassembly.
How We Chose the Best Infiniti QX60 Power Steering Cooler
We focused on components that directly reduce power steering fluid temperature and improve long-term system durability for the Infiniti QX60. Key evaluation criteria included cooling capacity under sustained loads, physical fitment and mounting options compatible with the vehicle, fluid flow characteristics and pressure rating, build materials and corrosion resistance, and the quality and compatibility of fittings and hoses. We also considered ease of installation where it affects reliability, and whether kits provided necessary hardware or required significant modification. Exclusions included products lacking clear pressure or flow specifications, units designed only for non-automotive hydraulic systems, and items without documented vehicle-specific fitment or adaptable mounting solutions. The result is a short list of durable, suitably rated coolers and kits that align with how the QX60 is commonly used.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How do I know if the Infiniti QX60 needs a power steering cooler?
Signs include unusually warm or burning-smelling fluid, decreased steering responsiveness during extended driving, or repeated failure of seals and hoses. High-duty use such as towing or frequent low-speed driving increases heat load. Having a cooler is not always required, but it can help protect components if your driving conditions regularly stress the steering system.
Can I install a power steering cooler on the Infiniti QX60 myself?
Many coolers are designed for do-it-yourself installation, but difficulty varies with mounting location and hose routing. Basic mechanical skills, proper tools, and attention to fluid flushing and bleeding are important. If you are not comfortable working on hydraulic lines or lack space to mount the unit securely, professional installation is advisable.
Will adding a cooler change my power steering fluid maintenance schedule?
A cooler can reduce operating temperatures and may extend fluid life by slowing thermal breakdown. However, it does not eliminate the need for regular inspection and scheduled fluid changes. Continue to follow manufacturer service intervals and inspect hoses and fittings periodically for leaks or wear.
Where is the best place to mount a cooler in the Infiniti QX60?
An ideal location provides steady airflow and protects the unit from road debris, commonly near the radiator support or behind a lower grille opening. Avoid mounting where hoses must bend sharply or where the cooler will be impacted by debris. Choose a position that allows secure brackets and straightforward hose routing for reliable service.
Does a power steering cooler require a specific type of hose or fitting?
Yes, hoses and fittings should meet the steering system pressure and use compatible thread types and sealing methods. Reinforced hoses and crimped or threaded fittings rated for hydraulic use reduce the risk of leaks. When using a kit, confirm the included fittings match the QX60 system or plan to obtain proper adapters.
Will a cooler completely prevent power steering overheating problems?
A cooler significantly reduces fluid temperatures and lowers the chance of heat-related failures, but it is not a guaranteed cure. Underlying issues like a failing pump, clogged lines, or incorrect fluid type can still cause overheating. Use a cooler as one part of a broader maintenance approach addressing seals, hoses, and system health.
Conclusion
When choosing an Infiniti QX60 power steering cooler, prioritize proven cooling capacity, secure fitment, and durable materials. Balancing core size with available mounting space and ensuring correct pressure-rated fittings will deliver the most reliable results.Remember that a cooler reduces thermal stress but does not replace good maintenance. Factor in installation complexity and serviceability so the solution you pick stays effective over time.
Explore More:
- Check out all Infiniti QX60 parts & accessories
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- Explore Cooling System
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