Power Steering Cooler

Power steering coolers are designed to draw heat out of the power steering fluid in order to reduce the stress put on power steering components. While many drivers never think about their power steering system until something goes wrong, understanding the role of proper fluid cooling can save you from costly repairs and maintain the reliability of your vehicle's steering performance.

Why Power Steering Fluid Needs Cooling

The power steering pump is a positive displacement oil pump, so the fluid is constantly circulating whenever the engine is running, even if you aren't steering. The turbulence from the fluid circulation plus friction of the moving parts inside the pump is constantly adding a small amount of heat to the power steering fluid. Heat is generated through friction produced in both the power steering pump and either the steering gear or rack and pinion unit, and is also generated due to the system's close proximity to the vehicle's engine.

When power steering fluid exceeds its operating temperature, it no longer performs its intended purpose of lubricating and cooling the mechanical parts of the power steering system, and when the mechanical parts fail to have proper lubrication and heat reduction, they will ultimately fail. This is especially critical for vehicles that experience heavy use, towing, off-road driving, or operation in hot climates.

When You Need a Power Steering Cooler

Not every vehicle requires an aftermarket power steering cooler, but certain driving conditions make them essential. Any time a vehicle is not moving or if there is extra weight in the vehicle or because the vehicle is towing, it makes it harder for the power steering components to do their job, and this extra stress produces heat which can damage the power steering pump and break down its fluid. Power steering oil coolers are particularly important in vehicles with large tires such as motorhomes and off-road vehicles.

Power steering coolers significantly reduce the temperature of the fluid by both increasing the system's fluid capacity as well as the amount of time it takes for the fluid to return to the pump where it is pressurized and heated again. Even for street-driven vehicles, adding a cooler can extend component life by reducing wear on pumps, seals, and gearboxes while decreasing fluid degradation.

Top Power Steering Cooler Brands

When selecting a replacement power steering cooler, choosing a quality manufacturer ensures proper fit, durability, and performance. Dorman offers an extensive line of direct-fit replacement coolers engineered to match OEM specifications, featuring corrosion-resistant construction and vehicle-specific designs that simplify installation. For performance and universal applications, Derale Performance provides both tube-and-fin and plate-and-fin cooler designs with copper tubing and aluminum fins, known for their excellent heat dissipation in demanding conditions.

Hayden Automotive specializes in thermal management solutions with coolers specifically designed for motorhomes and vehicles with oversized tires. Borgeson brings decades of power steering expertise to their cooler offerings, particularly beneficial when used with conversion boxes and custom steering setups. Four Seasons rounds out the category with reliable replacement options backed by their reputation in automotive thermal management components.

How Power Steering Coolers Work

The fins in power steering coolers pull heat away from the fluid as it passes them, and the fins are then cooled by the ambient air outside of the system. Traditionally power steering fluid coolers are placed at the front of the vehicle, in front of the radiator and AC condenser, in a position referred to as first air, meaning the component gets the air passed over it first prior to it reaching any other cooling components. This strategic placement maximizes cooling efficiency by exposing the cooler to the coldest available airflow.

Whether you're replacing a failed factory cooler or adding cooling capacity to a modified vehicle, selecting the right power steering cooler ensures your steering system operates within safe temperature ranges, preventing premature component failure and maintaining consistent steering feel.