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If your Scion xD has seen heavy city driving, towing, or spirited runs, the steering system can run hotter than intended. Choosing the right Scion xD power steering cooler helps lower fluid temperature, reduce wear, and preserve steering performance under stress. This guide covers our seven shortlisted options that fit the Scion xD and explains the key criteria we used to evaluate them, such as cooling capacity and installation compatibility. Read on for the attributes to prioritize before you pick a cooler for your Scion xD.
Looking for other parts? See all Scion xD parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Derale 13200 Power Steering Cooler Kit |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Edelmann Elite 58040 Power Steering Cooler |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Derale 13309 Power Steering Cooler Kit (Black) |  |
| 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 | Derale 4-Pass Power Steering Cooler Kit |  |
1. 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.
2. Edelmann Elite 58040 Power Steering Cooler
| Brand | Edelmann |
|---|---|
| Model | 58040 |
| Exterior | Painted |
This Edelmann Elite power steering cooler is built to lower hydraulic temperatures in demanding driving conditions, helping preserve pump, hose, fluid, and seal life. It installs in-line with the power steering system and is intended to be used where higher-than-normal steering loads create excess heat, such as towing, aggressive driving, or extended hill work. Notable features include construction to factory specifications, high-temperature furnace brazing, and a painted exterior for corrosion resistance. In practice the cooler provides a passive way to reduce operating temperature without modifying steering components, which can translate to fewer failures and more consistent steering feel under stress. The unit is relatively compact and straightforward to integrate into existing lines, but buyers should confirm fitment and mounting space on their chassis since it was packaged for specific vehicle applications. This cooler is focused on thermal protection rather than increasing steering response, so expect longer component life rather than performance changes to steering behavior.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners seeking reliable thermal protection to extend steering component life during high-load driving and spirited use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking primarily for quicker steering response or a direct handling upgrade should consider performance steering components instead.
- Engineered to factory specifications for consistent fit and function
- High-temperature furnace brazing for durable construction and leak resistance
- Painted exterior offers corrosion protection for longer service life
- Not specifically listed for Scion xD fitment so may require custom mounting or hose adapters
Verdict: A robust, factory-quality cooler that reduces power steering temperatures to help protect components during heavy or performance-oriented use.
3. 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.
4. 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.
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. 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.
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 Scion xD Power Steering Cooler: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Compatibility
A cooler that does not match the Scion xD mounting points or hose fittings creates installation headaches and potential leaks. Confirming bolt patterns, hose diameter, and connector types reduces the need for adapters or custom brackets.
Proper fitment also keeps the cooler in the ideal airflow zone, which is critical for effective heat rejection. A part that requires relocating other components can add labor and increase the risk of interference with existing systems.
Cooling Capacity and Surface Area
Cooling capacity is typically tied to the cooler's surface area, fin density, and internal fluid path. A larger internal volume and more fin area usually allow the system to shed heat more effectively under sustained loads.
Understanding rated temperature drop or flow-through characteristics helps you choose a unit that will meaningfully lower steering fluid temperatures during stop-and-go traffic or towing. Balance capacity with available space to avoid fitment compromises.
Materials and Corrosion Resistance
Materials such as aluminum cores with protective coatings and stainless-steel fittings resist corrosion and prolong service life in road environments. Marine-grade or anodized finishes help prevent pitting from salt, grime, and moisture exposure.
Durable materials also withstand thermal cycling from repeated heating and cooling events. Inferior materials can fail at fittings or corrode the core, which risks contamination of the steering system and costly repairs.
Included Hardware and Hose Compatibility
Kits that include properly sized hoses, clamps, and mounting brackets reduce installation time and lower the risk of mismatched connectors. Confirm hose inner diameter and length to ensure a leak-free connection without undue tension or sharp bends.
Having the correct fittings means fewer trips to source parts and a cleaner install. If a kit omits hardware, factor in the time and cost to obtain compatible hoses and clamps designed for hydraulic fluid.
Installation Complexity and Serviceability
Some coolers mount to existing brackets or bolt directly to the chassis, while others require drilling or custom bracket fabrication. Assess how much disassembly is needed and whether the job can be completed with basic hand tools.
Easy-to-access mounting locations and straightforward hose routings make future service or inspection simpler. Also consider whether the design allows for quick replacement of hoses or the core in case of damage.
Pressure Rating and Flow Characteristics
Power steering systems operate under pressure, so the cooler and its fittings need an appropriate pressure rating to avoid bulging, leaking, or failure. Look for components rated for typical hydraulic system pressures or higher.
Flow characteristics matter because excessive restriction can increase system pressure and affect steering feel. A well-designed cooler balances adequate heat exchange with minimal flow resistance to maintain consistent steering response.
How We Chose the Best Scion xD Power Steering Cooler
We focused on parts and kits that are explicitly compatible with the Scion xD and that address elevated steering fluid temperatures in real-world driving. Primary selection criteria included verified vehicle fitment, rated cooling capacity or surface area to estimate heat rejection, and quality of materials such as corrosion-resistant fins and durable fittings. We also weighed installation complexity and whether the product includes the hoses, clamps, and mounting hardware typically needed for a straightforward install. We excluded universal or poorly documented units without clear fitment guidance and any items that rely on fragile or non-durable materials. Units that required extensive fabrication or custom brackets were deprioritized. The final list emphasizes reliable construction, straightforward installability on the Scion xD, and measurable thermal performance indicators that matter to steering system longevity and consistent steering feel.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How do I know if my Scion xD needs a power steering cooler?
If you experience overheating symptoms such as repeated steering fluid degradation, soft or inconsistent steering feel during extended drives, or unusually hot hoses near the reservoir, your system may benefit from added cooling. Vehicles used for heavy city driving, track days, or towing are more likely to run the steering system hot. A temperature-focused inspection can confirm whether fluid temps exceed recommended thresholds.
Can I install a power steering cooler on my own?
Many coolers are designed for do-it-yourself installation and come with hoses and mounting hardware, but complexity varies. If the kit matches the Scion xD fittings and includes clear instructions, a competent DIYer can complete the job with basic tools. If the installation requires welding, custom brackets, or internal system work, professional installation is safer and ensures proper leak-free connections.
Will a cooler change steering feel or performance?
A properly sized cooler should reduce fluid temperature without noticeably altering steering feel. However, adding any inline component can introduce some additional flow resistance if the cooler is overly restrictive. Choosing a unit with appropriate flow characteristics and pressure ratings helps maintain consistent steering response while lowering operating temperatures.
How often should I inspect or service the cooler?
Inspect the cooler and its connections at regular maintenance intervals or after any event that could cause damage, such as impact with road debris. Check for leaks, corrosion, and secure mounting. Hoses and clamps should also be examined and replaced if signs of wear or hardening appear. Routine visual checks help catch issues before they affect the steering system.
Will a cooler prevent all power steering problems?
A cooler reduces operating temperature and can extend component life, but it does not address mechanical wear, internal seal failures, or contamination. It is a preventive measure that helps mitigate heat-related degradation. Regular fluid maintenance and addressing leaks or worn components remain essential for long-term steering reliability.
Conclusion
When selecting a power steering cooler for a Scion xD, prioritize fitment and cooling capacity to ensure effective temperature control without creating installation complications. Durable materials, included hardware, and a design that balances heat rejection with minimal flow restriction are the most important practical considerations. Weigh the tradeoffs between larger cooling cores and available mounting space, and plan for proper hose routing and periodic inspections. Taken together, these factors will help you choose a cooler that reduces overheating risk and supports consistent steering performance over time.
Explore More:
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