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If your Kia Soul has experienced hot, foamy steering fluid or heavier-than-normal steering effort, fitting a dedicated cooler can help restore consistent performance. Choosing the right Kia Soul power steering cooler affects fluid temperatures, steering feel, and long-term component wear, so matching capacity and fitment to how you drive is important. This guide covers seven shortlisted power steering coolers that match common Kia Soul installations and driving demands. Read on to understand the evaluation criteria used and which features matter most before you install a cooler.
Looking for other parts? See all Kia Soul parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Derale Series 7000 Power Steering Cooler Kit |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Edelmann Elite 58032 Power Steering Cooler |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Hayden Automotive Power Steering Oil Cooler (Model 1012) |  |
| 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 | Derale 4-Pass Power Steering Cooler Kit |  |
1. Derale Series 7000 Power Steering Cooler Kit
| Material | Aluminum/Copper |
|---|---|
| Inlet/Outlet | 11/32 in Hose Barb |
| Finish | Black Powder Coat |
| Type | Tube and Fin Core |
The Derale Series 7000 power steering cooler kit is a small tube-and-fin cooler intended to lower steering fluid temperature for improved system longevity and consistent steering feel. It installs inline using 11/32 inch hose barb fittings and includes mounting hardware and hose, so it is typically used between the power steering pump and rack or reservoir to shed heat during towing, spirited driving, or stop-and-go traffic. The aluminum and copper construction with a black powder coat gives corrosion resistance and a tidy under-hood appearance. Its compact core fits in tight spaces behind the bumper or near the radiator while still offering better thermal transfer than an uncooled line. Limitations are its modest core size, which means it is best for everyday performance improvement rather than heavy-duty cooling for large towing loads, and hose barb fittings require secure clamp connections to avoid leaks. Overall it is a straightforward, durable factory-replacement style cooler for owners who want lower steering fluid temps without complex plumbing.
Best for: Balanced all-round buyers who want a reliable, easy-to-install cooler to lower power steering fluid temperatures for improved steering consistency and component life without major modifications.
Less Ideal for: Owners who need heavy-duty cooling for frequent towing, motorsport use, or substantially modified steering systems should choose a larger or purpose-built cooler.
- Aluminum/copper tube-and-fin design provides efficient heat transfer for its size
- Compact core and included hardware allow installation in tight engine bays
- Black powder coat finish offers corrosion resistance and a clean appearance
- Includes hose and fittings for a mostly complete install
- Small core size limits cooling capacity for heavy towing or extreme use
- Uses hose barb fittings that require careful clamping to prevent leaks
Verdict: A compact, durable inline power steering cooler that lowers fluid temperatures with minimal fuss for everyday driving and light towing.
2. Edelmann Elite 58032 Power Steering Cooler
| Brand | Edelmann |
|---|---|
| Model | 58032 |
| Manufacturer | Plews & Edelmann |
The Edelmann Elite 58032 power steering cooler is a direct-fit style cooler intended to reduce heat in hydraulic steering systems and extend component life. It installs inline with the power steering circuit to dissipate excess heat generated under heavy use, which helps protect pumps, hoses, seals, and fluid from premature degradation. The unit is manufactured to factory-spec dimensions and uses high-temperature furnace brazing for a durable, leak-resistant construction. In practice this cooler is most useful on vehicles that see sustained low-speed work, towing, or steep repeated steering input where the steering system runs hot. Because it follows OEM fit and mounting points, installation is straightforward for a competent DIYer or a shop and does not require major plumbing changes. Limitations are that fitment and routing must match the vehicle's existing lines and brackets, and a cooler by itself cannot correct mechanical steering faults or fluid contamination issues.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize component longevity under demanding driving and want a high-quality, factory-spec upgrade to control steering system heat.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a universal or multi-vehicle cooler or those trying to fix existing steering mechanical failures should look elsewhere.
- Designed to factory specifications for straightforward fitment
- High-temperature furnace brazing for improved durability and leak resistance
- Reduces system temperature to help extend life of pump, hoses, seals, and fluid
- Compatibility limited to vehicles with matching line routing and mounting provisions
Verdict: A factory-quality cooler built to lower power steering temperatures and protect steering components under heavy 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 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. 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.
Choosing the Right Kia Soul Power Steering Cooler: Key Factors to Consider
Cooling Capacity and Surface Area
Cooling capacity is the core function of a power steering cooler. Larger core area and higher fin density increase heat transfer from the fluid to the air, which matters when you are in stop-and-go traffic or towing where fluid temperatures rise quickly.
A cooler that cannot dissipate enough heat will provide limited benefit, while an appropriately sized cooler reduces the frequency of overheated or aerated fluid. Consider your driving habits and whether you need a compact unit for tight under-hood space or a larger core for heavy use.
Fitment and Hose Compatibility
Correct fitment prevents leaks and simplifies installation. The cooler must fit in the available space in the Kia Soul's engine bay and align with existing hose routing without excessive bending or kinking.
Check the hose diameter, thread types, and included adapters so you do not have to modify factory lines. A unit that matches common steering line sizes and comes with clear fittings reduces the risk of leaks and the time required to install the cooler.
Material and Corrosion Resistance
Materials determine longevity in a road-exposed location. Aluminum cores are common because they transfer heat well, but the finish and brazing quality affect resistance to road salt and debris.
Look for corrosion-resistant coatings, quality welds or brazing on end tanks, and stainless or plated fittings. Better materials reduce the chance of leaks and extend service life in climates with moisture or salt exposure.
Mounting Options and Hardware
A secure, vibration-free mount keeps the cooler aligned and prevents chafing of hoses. Different coolers offer brackets for radiator mounting, A-arm attachment, or bolt-on options to chassis points, which affects where you can place the unit on a Kia Soul.
Assess available mounting points in your vehicle, and prefer kits that include robust hardware and anti-vibration features, rather than relying on improvised brackets that can loosen over time.
Hydraulic Flow and Pressure Rating
Power steering systems operate under pressure. A cooler must allow adequate flow while withstanding system pressures without collapsing or inducing pressure drop that could affect steering feel.
Verify manufacturer pressure ratings and internal hose diameters. Avoid coolers designed only for low-pressure gravity feed systems; choose units sized for hydraulic steering applications and rated for the expected operating pressures.
Ease of Installation and Included Parts
Installation complexity affects time, cost, and the chance of errors. Kits that include hoses, clamps, adapters, and clear instructions reduce the need for additional parts and make the job easier if you plan to install the cooler yourself.
Consider whether the kit requires routing lines near hot exhaust components or tight clearances and whether it includes hardware that matches the Kia Soul's build. Simpler installations mean fewer trips to a workshop and lower risk of improper connections.
How We Chose the Best Kia Soul Power Steering Cooler
We prioritized components and kits that specifically suit the Kia Soul in terms of physical fit, plumbing layout, and capacity to lower fluid temperatures under typical driving conditions. Key evaluation criteria included cooling capacity measured by surface area and fin density, hose and fitting compatibility with Kia Soul steering lines, durability of construction and corrosion resistance, mounting options that work with the Soul's engine bay, and ease of installation including included fittings and instructions. We also considered fluid flow restrictions and pressure ratings to avoid introducing steering system issues. Exclusions included any units that lacked clear fitment guidance for compact cars, coolers designed only for heavy commercial vehicles, or products with inadequate materials for wet, road-exposed installations. The result is a focused list of seven options that balance thermal performance, compatibility, and practical installability for the Kia Soul.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How do I know if my Kia Soul needs a power steering cooler?
Signs often include unusually hot or foamy steering fluid, increased steering effort after sustained driving, or a smell of overheated fluid. These symptoms can appear during heavy city traffic or prolonged towing.If you notice these issues repeatedly, adding a cooler can reduce fluid temperature and help protect seals and the pump. Have a quick inspection to rule out leaks or low fluid before adding a cooler.
Can I install a power steering cooler myself on a Kia Soul?
Many owners can install a cooler with basic hand tools if the kit includes matching fittings and clear instructions. Expect to drain some fluid, route hoses, and secure the cooler with supplied brackets.If you are unsure about hose sizes, pressure fittings, or routing near hot components, consult a professional to avoid leaks or damage to steering lines.
Will a cooler change steering feel on my Kia Soul?
A properly sized cooler should not negatively affect steering feel, because it is designed to maintain normal hydraulic flow while reducing fluid temperature. Excessive restrictions or improper hose sizing can introduce pressure changes that may alter feel.Choose a cooler rated for hydraulic steering systems and ensure fittings and hose diameters match factory lines to minimize any impact on steering responsiveness.
Where is the best place to mount a power steering cooler on a Kia Soul?
Common mounting locations include in front of the radiator, ahead of the condenser, or near an open airflow path behind a lower bumper opening. The goal is consistent airflow without exposing the cooler to road debris or hot exhaust components.Pick a location that allows secure mounting, straight hose runs, and accessible fittings for future maintenance.
Does adding a cooler require changing power steering fluid more often?
Not necessarily. A cooler lowers operating temperatures, which can reduce fluid degradation and potentially extend fluid life. However, follow the vehicle manufacturer's maintenance intervals and monitor fluid condition periodically.If you switch fluid types during installation, be sure to follow proper flushing procedures to avoid contamination.
Conclusion
Prioritize cooling capacity, correct fitment, and durable materials when choosing a Kia Soul power steering cooler. Matching hose compatibility and pressure ratings to the vehicle preserves steering feel while lowering fluid temperatures.Balance installation complexity with long-term corrosion resistance and mounting security. Selecting a kit that suits your driving conditions and offers clear fitment guidance will deliver the best combination of reliability and thermal protection for the Kia Soul.
Explore More:
- Check out all Kia Soul parts & accessories
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