What is the purpose of the power steering cooler?

The purpose of the power steering cooler is to reduce fluid temperatures. Power steering systems can generate significant heat during operation, especially under heavy steering loads or in high-temperature environments. This heat can negatively impact the performance and longevity of the power steering fluid, leading to potential degradation and reduced effectiveness of the steering system.

By using a power steering cooler, the fluid is routed through a heat exchanger that dissipates the heat away from the fluid before it returns to the power steering pump and steering gear. Maintaining appropriate fluid temperatures is crucial for ensuring consistent steering performance and protecting the components of the steering system from damage caused by overheating.

Increasing pressure in the steering system, maintaining appropriate fluid levels, and enhancing steering feel are functions related to the steering system as a whole but do not directly pertain to the specific function of a power steering cooler. Thus, the correct answer focuses on its role in temperature regulation.