2010-2019 LaCrosse, XTS, & Allure Power Steering Cooler: Leaks, Noises, and Cold Weather Failures
This guide covers the common failure points, symptoms, and replacement costs for the power steering cooler found in the Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac XTS, and Buick Allure with the 3.6L V6 engine.
- The most common failures are fluid leaks from corrosion and whining noises from air entering the system.
- Vehicles in cold climates are subject to a TSB where fluid can thicken and cause leaks; using Pentosin CHF202 fluid is recommended.
- The original cooler's 'wire-fin' design is prone to damage; inspect any used part for corrosion and consider aftermarket 'stacked-fin' designs.
- Never bypass the cooler; it is essential for preventing overheating and failure of the power steering pump and rack.
Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Cooler
A bad power steering cooler can cause a chain reaction of problems. Because it's located at the front of the vehicle, it's vulnerable to damage from road debris and corrosion from road salt. Here are the most common signs that your cooler is failing.
1. Power Steering Fluid Leaks
This is the most obvious symptom. You may notice reddish or brown fluid puddles under the front of your car. The cooler itself, made with thin aluminum fins, can corrode and develop pinhole leaks. The connections where the rubber hoses attach can also degrade and leak. Since power steering fluid does not get consumed or evaporate, a low fluid level always indicates a leak somewhere in the system.
2. Whining or Groaning Noises When Turning
If you hear a whining or groaning sound from the engine bay that gets louder when you turn the steering wheel, 🎬 Watch: Hear what a failing power steering pump sounds like. it's a classic sign of air in the power steering system. A leak in the cooler or its lines allows air to be sucked in, which causes the power steering pump to make noise as it circulates a mix of fluid and air bubbles. Ignoring this noise can quickly destroy the pump.
3. Stiff or Heavy Steering
When the fluid level drops too low due to a leak, the power steering pump can't generate enough pressure to assist your steering. This makes the steering wheel feel very heavy and difficult to turn, especially at low speeds or when parking. In some cases, the system can overheat from a clogged or inefficient cooler, causing a temporary loss of steering assist.
Warning: A sudden loss of power steering assist can make the vehicle very difficult to control, increasing the risk of a crash, especially during emergency maneuvers.
Known Issues for LaCrosse, XTS, and Allure
TSB for Cold Weather Leaks & Noises
General Motors issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #13-02-32-001G for a wide range of vehicles, including the 2009-2015 Buick LaCrosse and 2013-2018 Cadillac XTS with hydraulic power steering. Owners in extremely cold climates (at or below -31°F / -35°C) may experience sudden power steering fluid leaks, whining noises, or pump failure. GM found that the standard power steering fluid can thicken in these temperatures, causing a spike in system pressure that can damage seals in the pump, hoses, or steering gear. The official fix is to replace any damaged components, flush the system, and refill it with a specialized cold-weather fluid, Pentosin CHF202.
Original Cooler Design Flaw
The factory-installed power steering cooler on these vehicles uses a "wire-style" fin design. This design is known to be susceptible to corrosion, especially in regions that use road salt in the winter. The fins can corrode, bend, and break off, reducing cooling efficiency and eventually leading to leaks. Some aftermarket replacements use an improved "stacked-fin" design that is more robust and resistant to corrosion and damage.
🎬 See how to install an upgraded, more durable steering cooler.Buying a Used Power Steering Cooler: What to Check
A used OEM power steering cooler can be a cost-effective and reliable alternative to an expensive new part, especially since aftermarket quality can vary. Here’s what to inspect before you buy.
- Inspect the Fins: Look closely at the cooling fins. Reject any cooler with significant corrosion, crumbling fins, or physical damage from impacts. The fins are critical for dissipating heat.
- Check the Body and Welds: Examine the main body of the cooler for any signs of leaks, which may look like dark, oily stains. Check where the lines connect to the cooler body for any cracks or signs of previous repairs.
- Examine the Hose Connections: The inlet and outlet ports should be clean, round, and free of cracks or severe rust. A damaged connection point will not seal properly with the power steering lines, causing a persistent leak.
- Source Vehicle History: If possible, choose a part from a vehicle that was registered in a southern or dry climate to minimize the risk of salt corrosion. A lower-mileage part is always preferable.
Pro Tip: When replacing the cooler, it's a great time to also replace the spring clamps on the hoses. Over time, they can lose tension and cause leaks. It's also critical to flush the entire system with fresh, manufacturer-specified fluid and bleed all the air out to protect the power steering pump.
Replacement Cost Comparison
The cost to replace the power steering cooler can vary significantly based on the parts you choose and whether you do the work yourself. The job typically takes a professional mechanic 1 to 2 hours.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (GM Part #13280139) | $160 - $250 |
| New Aftermarket | $40 - $130 |
| Used OEM | $50 - $100 |
| Shop Labor | $120 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I just bypass the power steering cooler?
No, you should never bypass the power steering cooler. It is not a luxury item; it's a necessary component engineered to prevent the power steering fluid from overheating. Bypassing it will lead to excessive heat, which can quickly destroy the power steering pump and steering rack, resulting in much more expensive repairs.
Is this a difficult DIY job?
For a moderately experienced DIY mechanic, this job is manageable. It has a difficulty of about 3 out of 5. The cooler is generally accessible at the front of the vehicle. The main challenges are dealing with the messy fluid drain and ensuring the system is properly bled of all air after the new part is installed. An improper bleeding procedure can cause immediate noise and damage to the power steering pump.
🎬 Watch: How to correctly bleed air from your steering system.What type of power steering fluid should I use?
Always consult your owner's manual for the specific fluid type. For vehicles covered by TSB #13-02-32-001G, especially those in cold climates, GM recommends flushing the system and filling with Pentosin CHF202 to prevent cold-weather failures. Using the wrong fluid can damage system components.
My car has electric power steering. Does this guide apply to me?
No. This guide is only for the 2010-2016 Buick LaCrosse, 2013-2019 Cadillac XTS, and 2010 Buick Allure equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine and a hydraulic power steering system. Some trim levels or model years may have used an electric power steering (EPS) system, which does not have a pump, fluid, or cooler. Verify which system your car has before purchasing parts.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13280139
Fits vehicles with 3.6L V6 engine and hydraulic power steering. The original part features a wire-fin design.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick LaCrosse:
- Cadillac XTS:
- Buick Allure:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Cooler
- 1. Power Steering Fluid Leaks
- 2. Whining or Groaning Noises When Turning
- 3. Stiff or Heavy Steering
- Known Issues for LaCrosse, XTS, and Allure
- TSB for Cold Weather Leaks & Noises
- Original Cooler Design Flaw
- Buying a Used Power Steering Cooler: What to Check
- Replacement Cost Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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