Excessive transmission temperatures can reduce fluid effectiveness, cause harsh shifting, accelerate clutch wear, and shorten the lifespan of the transmission. This is where the transmission oil cooler plays a critical role, these transmission oil coolers are universal designs commonly used as aftermarket upgrades for high-performance vehicles, including the BMW F90.
BMW F90 Transmission Oil Cooler
1. Hayden Automotive 678 Rapid-Cool Transmission Cooler
A reliable and widely used transmission cooler suitable for daily driving and spirited performance use.
Features:
- Tube-and-fin core design
- Large surface area for heat dissipation
- Improves transmission fluid cooling efficiency
- Includes mounting hardware and hose adapters
- Compatible with most automatic transmissions
2. Cobra-Tek Universal Transmission Oil Cooler (11 x 5.75 inches)
A compact cooler that provides effective supplemental cooling without requiring extensive modification.
Features:
- Aluminum construction for efficient heat transfer
- Universal compatibility
- Compact size for easy installation
- Designed to reduce ATF temperatures under load
- Corrosion-resistant materials
Related SBC Engine Oil Cooler Kit(Top 5 Best 2026)
3. BARTOO 32-Row Plate-and-Fin Transmission Oil Cooler
Designed for demanding performance applications that require maximum cooling.
Features:
- 32-row plate-and-fin design
- High cooling efficiency for extreme driving conditions
- Durable aluminum construction
- Large cooling surface area
- Suitable for track use and high-temperature environments
4. BARTOO 19-Row Plate-and-Fin Transmission Oil Cooler
A balanced option offering strong cooling performance with a more manageable size.
Features:
- Plate-and-fin construction
- Efficient heat dissipation
- Universal fitment
- Easier installation than larger coolers
- Durable and lightweight design
5. Mishimoto Universal Transmission Fluid Cooler
A premium option from a well-known performance cooling manufacturer.
Features:
- High-quality aluminum construction
- Designed for consistent fluid temperature control
- Universal application for automatic transmissions
- Improves transmission reliability
- Includes mounting hardware
Related ZL1 Engine Oil Cooler(Upgrade to the Best ZL1 Oil Cooler Today!)
Installation Considerations for BMW F90
When installing an aftermarket transmission oil cooler on the F90, proper installation is crucial.
Key considerations include:
- Mounting the cooler in a high-airflow location
- Using quality transmission hoses and secure fittings
- Ensuring correct fluid flow direction
- Checking for leaks after installation
- Monitoring transmission temperatures after the upgrade
Most owners install auxiliary coolers in series with the factory cooling system for optimal results.
What Does the Transmission Oil Cooler Do?
A transmission oil cooler regulates the temperature of the automatic transmission fluid (ATF). As the transmission operates, friction and hydraulic pressure generate heat. The cooler removes excess heat from the ATF before it returns to the transmission, ensuring the fluid maintains its lubricating and hydraulic properties.
Proper cooling helps:
- Prevent fluid breakdown
- Maintain consistent shift quality
- Reduce internal transmission wear
- Improve long-term transmission durability
The BMW F90 comes with a factory cooling system designed for performance use, but under extreme driving conditions, additional cooling capacity can provide extra protection.
Related Engine Oil Cooler Replacement(5 Key Tips for a Smooth Job)
Why the BMW F90 May Need Additional Transmission Cooling
While BMW engineered the F90 for high performance, certain driving scenarios push the transmission beyond normal operating limits. These include:
- Track days and performance driving
- Repeated high-speed acceleration
- Hot climates or stop-and-go traffic
- Towing or carrying heavy loads
Adding an auxiliary or upgraded transmission oil cooler helps stabilize fluid temperatures and prevents heat-related performance degradation.
Types of Transmission Oil Coolers
Understanding cooler design helps you choose the right option for your F90.
Tube-and-Fin Coolers
- Simple construction
- Suitable for light to moderate cooling needs
- Cost-effective and easy to install
Plate-and-Fin Coolers
- More efficient heat transfer
- Better airflow management
- Ideal for performance and high-load driving
Multi-Row or Stacked Plate Coolers
- Maximum cooling capacity
- Designed for extreme use
- Larger size and higher flow capability
For the BMW F90, plate-and-fin or multi-row coolers are generally preferred when upgrading.
Related Transmission Temp Gauge(Top 5 BEST Picks 2026)
Final Thoughts
The BMW F90 transmission oil cooler is a critical component in maintaining transmission performance and longevity. While the factory system is capable, additional cooling can provide valuable protection during aggressive driving or extreme conditions.
The five transmission oil coolers listed above offer a range of cooling capacities and designs, making it easier to choose the right option based on your driving style. Upgrading your transmission oil cooling system is a smart investment that helps preserve the performance and reliability of your BMW F90 for years to come.
