Just like the name implies, transmission coolers are designed to cool a vehicle’s transmission. More specifically, they cool down the transmission fluid before it goes back into the system — thus keeping temperatures down and helping to prevent overheating.
Tube and fin coolers are generally the most affordable option but they’re also less efficient than the other two primary designs. Plate and fin coolers are more efficient than the tube variety because they cool more liquid overall, although they do cost more. Stacked plate coolers round out the trio as the most efficient and most expensive option.
If you do decide to shop around for transmission coolers, bear these different types in mind. You can’t really overdo it when it comes to cooler capacity, but if you use your car to go to work and other everyday activities, the most costly stacked plate models won’t be necessary. Those are more geared toward heavy vehicles or commercial drivers who operate their vehicles in extreme conditions. Additionally, the actual dimensions of the cooler and available space around your transmission should be taken into account.
