I am going to install an aftermarket hitch on my 2006 MDX (Touring edition). I see things our there about the coolers needed for the transmission and power steering? I haven't been able to find mention of them here. Are these needed and/or does the 06 come with these already? I will only be towing a very light trailer or Jetski. Don't want to mess anything up by not adding coolers if needed, but also don't want to spend all that money if not. :-)

 

I would do it right the first time. The 2004-2006 transmission isn't the worst Acura has made but i wouldn't take any chances. Plus i think they can void your warranty on transmission/power steering components if they found out you have been towing without the coolers.

I would at least get the ATF cooler, I can provide you with instructions for everything if you feel comfortable doing it yourself. It could save you a pretty penny.

 

Thanks for the input. I would like to do this right, but I can't see paying the dealer $1100 for a hitch install. Are the coolers pretty simple to install? I am no machanic, but I can definitely handle a simple install if I have some detailed instructions. Any idea on the cheapest place to get both coolers?

 

acuraoemparts has the OE cooler kit for ~$130 + s/h.. easy install. You might already have it installed, check your radiator for this bad boy.. should sit behind, if you see something similar in front it's the p/s cooler. If you don't have the OE kit or it's a little out of your price rance, you could get a B&M aftermarket cooler for about half that price but you'll have to figure out the pipe fitting & mounting yourself (not a biggie).

 

Sorry for bringing this old post back to life, but I need a little help in identifying if I have the ATF cooler already or not. I am thinking not, but if someone could help with exactly where this sits I would appreciate it. In teh front of the radiator I see two bars running the length of it, doesn't really look like the bars in the picture above. Behind I see two large fans, not much else? No real machanical ability at all as you can probably tell from my post, but any assistance would be appreciated.