Key Takeaways
- OEM oil filters fit perfectly, follow factory standards, and keep your warranty safe.
- Aftermarket oil filters vary in quality, but premium ones can match OEM performance.
- OEM filters cost more but offer consistent build, while aftermarket filters offer more options and lower prices.
- Choose OEM for guaranteed reliability or aftermarket for value with careful brand selection.
What Is An OEM Oil Filter?
OEM oil filter is the original filter made or approved by the vehicle’s manufacturer. It is designed to match the exact fit, shape, and function needed for your specific engine.
OEM oil filters follow factory standards for quality, pressure handling, and filtration performance. It uses the same materials, valves, and design as the filter your car had when it was brand new.
Using an OEM oil filter keeps the engine safe and the warranty valid. It reduces the chance of leaks, clogs, or wrong fit during oil changes.
What Are The Main Components Of OEM Oil Filter?
OEM oil filter includes 6 main components. Each part ensures correct oil flow, high filtration, and engine protection.
Filter Media
Filter media is the material inside the filter that captures dirt, sludge, and metal particles. OEM oil filters use synthetic or cellulose blends that trap particles as small as 20 microns to protect the engine.
End Caps
End caps are the disks that seal both ends of the filter media. OEM end caps are made from durable metal or resin, ensuring the filter structure stays intact under pressure.
Center Tube
Center tube is the inner support that keeps the filter media stable. OEM center tubes are designed to handle oil flow without collapsing or bending during engine operation.
Anti-Drain Back Valve
Anti-drain back valve prevents oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off. OEM valves maintain oil inside the filter, allowing fast lubrication at startup.
Bypass Valve
Bypass valve allows oil to flow around the filter if the media gets clogged. OEM bypass valves are pressure-calibrated to open only when needed, preventing engine oil starvation.
Canister Shell
Canister shell is the metal casing that encloses all internal parts of the filter. OEM canisters are built to withstand high temperatures and pressure without cracking or deforming.
Pros And Cons Of OEM Oil Filters
| Pros of OEM Oil Filters | Cons of OEM Oil Filters |
| Exact fit for specific engine models | Higher cost compared to budget aftermarket options |
| Maintains factory warranty protection | Limited availability outside authorized dealerships |
| Tested under manufacturer’s quality and performance standards | Fewer high-performance variants (e.g., extended-life filters) |
| Reliable sealing and pressure performance | Less flexibility in customization for unique driving needs |
| Consistent filtration efficiency and build quality | Usually lacks enhanced features found in premium aftermarket filters |
| Engineered for precise oil flow and pressure balance | Often available in limited quantities or brands only |
Top 5 OEM Oil Filters In 2025
1. Mopar 4892339AA Oil Filter
Mopar 4892339AA covers Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Chrysler, and Fiat engines with factory‑correct fit and OEM seal integrity. It utilizes high‑efficiency filter media that removes particles as small as 20 microns.
The robust shell and precision end caps ensure the filter holds up under extreme pressure while preventing leaks.
Built‑in bypass and anti‑drain‑back valves keep engine lubrication consistent, especially during cold starts.
2. Motorcraft FL500S Oil Filter
Motorcraft FL500S is Ford’s direct‑fit OEM filter designed for numerous Ford engines, offering exact compatibility. It uses synthetic blend media that captures fine debris to maintain clean oil.
Its high‑strength canister and end caps prevent structural failure at high operating temperatures.
Diagnostic‑tested valves secure oil flow and prevent dry starts, preserving engine components.
3. Fram OE PH6607 Oil Filter
Fram OE PH6607 is built to meet factory OE specifications for Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles without compromising quality. It delivers improved filtration efficiency using cellulose‑synthetic media blend.
The solid steel casing resists crushing under extreme pressure, and the precision sealer prevents leaks.
Its bypass valve ensures oil flow continuity, even if the media is clogged, and anti‑drain‑back valve maintains oil during shutdowns.
4. ACDelco 25013759 Oil Filter
ACDelco 25013759 serves as GM’s genuine factory replacement filter for Chevrolet and GMC vehicles, ensuring ideal fit. It incorporates high‑efficiency media that filters particles down to approximately 20 microns.
Reinforced shell and end caps maintain structural integrity under engine stress and thermal cycles.
The high‑performance bypass and anti‑drain‑back valves ensure consistent lubrication and protect during cold starts.
5. Genuine Honda 15400‑RTA‑003 Oil Filter
Genuine Honda 15400‑RTA‑003 is the official filter for Honda and Acura engines, guaranteeing exact OEM compliance. It uses premium filtration media to remove contaminants and protect tight‑tolerance engine parts.
Durable shell construction resists pressure and temperature stresses in high‑rpm conditions.
Its bypass valve ensures oil flow even during media saturation, while the anti‑drain‑back valve prevents dry starts after extended idling.
What Is An Aftermarket Oil Filter?
Aftermarket oil filter is a replacement filter made by third-party manufacturers, not by the original vehicle maker. It is designed to fit and function in multiple car models beyond just one brand.
Aftermarket oil filter follows general industry specifications, not factory-specific standards. It comes in different types based on material quality, lifespan, and filtration design.
What Are The Main Components Of Aftermarket Oil Filter?
Filter Media
Filter media is the material that removes dirt and metal from engine oil. Aftermarket oil filters use cellulose, synthetic, or blended media with filtration sizes ranging from 20 to 30 microns.
End Caps
End caps are the pieces that hold the filter media together. In aftermarket filters, these can be made from metal, resin, or cardboard, depending on the brand and price.
Center Tube
Center tube keeps the filter media in place and allows oil to pass through it. Aftermarket center tubes vary in strength and may flex or collapse under high pressure if poorly made.
Anti-Drain Back Valve
Anti-drain back valve stops oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off. High-quality aftermarket filters include silicone or nitrile valves for better durability.
Bypass Valve
Bypass valve allows oil to flow if the filter media is blocked. In aftermarket filters, this valve may not always match the factory pressure specs, which can affect engine protection.
Canister Shell
Canister shell holds all internal components together. Aftermarket shells range in strength, with some low-cost filters using thinner metal that is prone to damage under high pressure.
Pros And Cons Of Aftermarket Oil Filters
| Pros of Aftermarket Oil Filters | Cons of Aftermarket Oil Filters |
| Lower price compared to OEM filters | Risk of poor fitment if not matched carefully |
| Available for a wide range of vehicles | May not meet engine-specific pressure or flow standards |
| Greater variety in filtration types and materials | Inconsistent quality across different brands and models |
| Some premium brands offer extended service life | Cheaper options use weaker materials and sealing components |
| Easy to find at auto parts stores and online | Warranty coverage might be affected if used improperly |
| Options available with performance or synthetic media | Pressure valves may not match manufacturer calibration |
Top 5 Aftermarket Oil Filters In 2025
1. WIX XP WL10010 Oil Filter
WIX XP WL10010 is a high-efficiency aftermarket filter designed for extended oil change intervals. It uses synthetic wire-backed media to capture particles down to 21 microns.
Its heavy-duty canister resists heat and internal pressure spikes during long drives. Built-in silicone anti-drain back valve maintains oil inside the filter and protects during startups.
2. K&N HP-1008 Performance Oil Filter
K&N HP-1008 is a performance-grade aftermarket filter with a high flow rate for turbo and high-RPM engines. It includes resin-impregnated media for filtration without restricting flow.
The filter has a durable outer shell and a welded nut on top for easy removal. K&N valves ensure oil pressure consistency even during aggressive driving.
3. Bosch Premium FILTECH 3330 Oil Filter
Bosch FILTECH 3330 uses a blend of cellulose and synthetic media that removes 99% of contaminants. Its long filter length increases dirt-holding capacity for extended protection.
The metal base plate and steel bypass valve deliver strong sealing and pressure regulation. Bosch includes a silicone anti-drain back valve to keep oil stable after shut-off.
4. Purolator BOSS PBL12222 Oil Filter
Purolator BOSS PBL12222 is built for extended oil change intervals up to 15,000 miles. Its synthetic media filters out 99% of engine-damaging particles.
The steel end caps and pressure-tested canister offer durability under extreme temperature changes. Its smart valve design prevents oil starvation and ensures stable flow.
5. Royal Purple 10-2876 Oil Filter
Royal Purple 10-2876 offers high-performance filtration for synthetic oil users. It captures 99% of particles ≥25 microns using micro-glass filter media.
The shell and end caps withstand heavy loads and oil flow surges without deformation. Its silicone anti-drain back valve keeps the engine lubricated on every cold start.
OEM Vs Aftermarket Oil Filter – Key Differences
| Aspect | OEM Oil Filter | Aftermarket Oil Filter |
| Manufacturer | Made or approved by vehicle’s original manufacturer | Made by third-party brands not linked to car manufacturer |
| Fitment | Exact fit for specific engine models | May fit multiple models; fit varies by brand |
| Filtration Quality | Uses factory-tested media with high accuracy (≈20 microns) | Quality ranges from 20 to 30 microns based on brand and type |
| Build Materials | Consistent high-grade components (metal caps, synthetic valves) | Materials vary—may include resin, cardboard, or thinner metal |
| Valve Calibration | Matches engine’s pressure and flow requirements | May not always match factory specs |
| Warranty Impact | Maintains factory warranty coverage | Risk of voiding warranty if failure results from filter use |
| Price Range (USD) | $10 – $25 | $5 – $20 |
| Availability | Available at dealerships and OEM service centers | Widely available online and in retail auto stores |
| Performance Consistency | High consistency across all units | Quality varies significantly between budget and premium brands |
| Customization Options | Fixed to factory specs | Includes high-flow, extended-life, or performance-specific filters |
Are OEM Oil Filters Better Than Aftermarket?
OEM oil filters are better when you want perfect fit and factory-level engine protection. They are made to match your car’s original parts, so they work without any risk of leaks or pressure issues.
Aftermarket oil filters can be good if you pick a trusted brand. Some high-quality ones give similar performance, but cheaper options might not fit well or filter as effectively.
If you want zero guesswork and full safety, choose OEM. If you want to save money and know what you’re buying, a premium aftermarket filter can still protect your engine.
