Wondering which oil filter is best?
Knowing which oil filter is best for your car is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is running properly. There are many on the market and it’s important to understand which one is best for your vehicle.
We’ve chosen Bosch 3330 Premium FILTECH Oil Filter as our top overall pick. Consumers report that after testing particulates in oil samples, there was <0.1 percent. It has synthetic media, silicone anti-drain back, and an easy-grip cap. And you can’t beat the price.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR TOP PICK >>>
This article provides you with a list of the best oil filters, making it easier for you to determine which one is best for your car.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may receive a small commission (at zero cost to you).
The Top 3 Oil Filters For Cars
IN THIS GUIDE
TOP PICK – Oil Filter
Bosch 3330 Premium FILTECH Oil Filter
What We Like
- Easy to replace
- Leak-proof Metal Case
- Affordable
- Offers a reliable engine protection
What We Don’t Like
- Requires regular changes
Summary: The Bosch 3330 Premium FILTECH is an affordable oil filter that is efficient in removing oil contaminants.
This oil filter’s base plates and the casing is made of strong steel that prevents leaks, poor-fitting, and warpage.
Moreover, it has silicone anti-drain back valves that supply clean oil every time you start the engine.
While this product has countless benefits when installed in your cars, it also has a few minor flaws. The main drawback is that some of the latest products include filters that don’t fit in tightly.
BEST BUNDLE – Oil Filter
Motorcraft FL- 820 – S Oil Filter
What We Like
- Easy to install
- Rust-resistant finish
- Efficient
- Highly affordable
What We Don’t Like
- Quite bulky
Summary: If your vehicle needs an oil filter change and you are on a low budget, then the Motorcraft FL- 820 oil filter will solve your needs.
It comes with pressure relief valves that minimize the chances of contaminated oil circulating to the engine.
The pressure relief valves also ensure constant oil flow even in significantly low temperatures or when the oil filter is completely clogged.
This oil filter is highly rated and commended by users due to its efficiency in trapping and collecting dirt.
BEST BUDGET – Oil Filter
FRAM PH7317 Extra Guard Oil Filter
What We Like
- Excellent dirt-trapping efficiency
- Non-slip finish for easy installation and removal
- Durable
- Ideal for conventional oil
What We Don’t Like
- Sometimes it can have issues with fit
Summary: FRAM is a well-known brand that manufactures affordable oil filters, and their PH7317 Extra Guard is one of the brand’s award-winning products.
It’s designed specifically for use with conventional oil and offers proven protection of up to 5,000 miles.
The oil filter delivers more than 95% dirt-trapping efficiency, which guarantees you that unwanted substances will not enter into your engine.
Installing and removing this oil filter is relatively easy since it has a non-slip texture of the SureGrip surface.
While there are a few complaints about the fit, this oil filter offers a perfect fit for most recommended vehicles, unless your car has some modifications.
Bosch 3323 Premium FILTECH Oil Filter
What We Like
- Delivers a tight seal
- Easy to install and remove
- Strong steel plates
- Greater engine protection
What We Don’t Like
- The larger outer shell can be problematic to tighten
Summary: Bosch 3323 features an exclusive Filtech media technology that makes it an excellent oil filter for cars.
It can screen out more than 99% of all contaminants to deliver greater engine protection.
Strong steel base and plates and a sturdy housing in this filter prevent warpage, poor fits, and leaks.
This oil filter also comes with an internally lubricated gasket, which is extremely durable and prevents it from drying out.
With an anti-drain back valve, Bosch 3323 allows for the supply of clean oil when starting your car.
While its larger outer shell can be problematic to tighten with a standard filter wrench, its non-slip feature ensures that you get a tight fit with your hand.
Bosch 3300 Premium Filter
What We Like
- Easy Removal
- Higher engine protection
- Offers a tight fit
- Effective
What We Don’t Like
- Requires frequent changes
Summary: The Bosch 3300 premium FILTECH technology screens and removes more contaminants for maximum engine protection.
It comes with a high lubricity gasket that makes removal a breeze and also gives a tight fit.
Just like other Bosch oil filters, it has Silicone anti-drain valves to ensure a supply of clean oil when you start the vehicle.
The strong steel base and plate makes it durable and prevents leaks, poor fits, and warpage.
Despite its efficiency, this filter will require more frequent changes, unlike most oil filters from different brands.
K and N Premium Oil Filter
What We Like
- Durable
- Comes with a warranty
- Ease to replace
- Versatile
- High dirt holding capacity
What We Don’t Like
- Some users have reported leaks
Summary: K and N premium oil filters are specially designed to offer exceptional oil filtration service to users.
It’s constructed with a heavy-duty canister that gives it outstanding durability and strength.
The most fascinating thing about this product is its versatility. It’s designed to filter all types of oils, including synthetic, conventional, and blended oils.
It has a pleated synthetic-blended media that is very effective in removing contaminants.
A one-inch welded hex nut that this filter comes with makes removing and replacing it as easy as ABC.
There have been a few leak reports from consumers of this product. This is not common and thanks to the one-year warranty that comes with this filter, your problem is addressed.
FRAM Synthetic XG10575
What We Like
- Premium anti-drain-back valves
- High mileage
- 99%+ dirt removal
- Easy to install and remove
What We Don’t Like
- May have fit issues in some vehicles
Summary: Ultra synthetic oil filters are the best for users who intend to use and utilize synthetic oil fully.
It’s very durable and has a long mileage. It is proven to last up to 20,000 miles with quality service and protection for your vehicle.
The FRAM synthetic XG10575, but in some vehicles, users have detected fit issues due to the filter’s lubricity gasket design.
The ultra-synthetic oil filters have a high filtering efficiency that removes more than 99% of dirt, including particles smaller than 20 microns.
It has a much advanced dual-layered media reinforced with metal straps that increase the dirt holding capacity for more extended filtering services.
This oil filter has many benefits for synthetic oil, but it may not fit well in some cars.
Mobil 1 M1 – 110A Extended Performance Oil Filter
What We Like
- Prevents dry starts
- Consistent even under high operating pressure
- High dirt holding capacity
- Lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
Summary: If you are looking for a high mileage oil filter, then Mobil 1 M1-110 is the right product for you.
It has a high dirt holding capacity of 28 grams. This is twice as much as many other types of oil filters.
This Mobil 1 M1-110 oil filter is highly rated due to its durability and ability to withstand very high operating pressure.
It also has silicone anti-drain valves that eliminate leakage when the engine is off. You will never experience dry starts with this oil filter.
The only downside of this oil filter is that it comes with a little high price tag, but it’s worth the money due to the high engine protection it delivers.
Mann HU 925/4 X Metal-Free Oil Filter
What We Like
- Easy to remove and replace
- Pleat Structuring
- High Contaminants holding capacity
- Great Separation efficiency
What We Don’t Like
- It Might not fit well in older models.
Summary: The Mann oil filter is very efficient in holding dirt and is the most preferred by BMW owners.
The filter is metal-free and is made of a mixture of fibers meant to increase the filter’s dirt holding capacity. It will last for a more extended period before requiring a change.
Mann filters are effortless to remove and replace. A couple of wrench tools will have the job done.
This oil filter comes with a pleat structuring design that allows the entire surface area to be effective throughout the operation time.
Some people have reported compatibility issues. Always be keen while checking the compatibility of this product with your vehicle to avoid this problem.
Mobil 1 M1 – 108A Extended Performance Oil Filter
What We Like
- Withstands high operation pressure
- Efficient
- Reduces resistance to oil flow
- High dirt holding capacity
What We Don’t Like
- High price tags
Summary: Mobil is a big name that you can trust due to experience and many years in the automobile world.
This filter will extend your vehicle’s engine’s longevity by supplying it with clean oil thanks to its synthetic fibres.
The Mobil 1 M1-108A is very efficient as it removes more dirt and reduces oil flow resistance than other conventional filters.
Its ability to withstand nine times standard system operating pressure is a sign that you can trust this oil filter with your engine.
Mobil 1 M1 – 108A oil has a few setbacks that include high price tags, and in some rare cases, the gasket comes damaged.
6 Types of Oil Filters
Mechanical
This oil filter is made of bulk materials like filter papers and cotton to filter contaminants from the oil. As the contaminants accumulate, the oil will not flow with ease. Hence, it requires regular changing.
Cartilage and Spin-on
This filter consists of a self-contained housing and a replaceable component. It comes in various materials and designs. It’s easy to change, and they last longer than other traditional filters.
Magnetic
Magnetic filters use magnets to attract and trap ferromagnetic particles in the oil. They are easy to maintain and replace.
Sedimentation
This type of oil filter uses gravitational force to sediment contaminants from the oil. It pulls impurities heavier than the oil to the bottom of the filter.
Centrifugal Oil Filter
As its name suggests, it uses centrifugal force to suspend and remove contaminants. You should change it regularly to prevent build-ups of sediments that may interfere with the engine’s functioning.
High Efficiency
High-efficiency oil filters are a type of bypass filter that have microscopic pores. These pores allow for long oil drain for maximum engine protection.
5 Signs You Need to Change the Oil Filter
Low Oil Pressure
On your vehicle’s dashboard is an oil pressure gauge. The pressure gauge primary will display the oil pressure in your car as you drive.
In normal conditions, when the oil is flowing well, the pressure gauge reading should be consistent.
If you realize that the reading on the pressure gauge is dropping very fast, it’s a sign that there is a problem with oil flow.
Metallic Noise
A clogged and dirty oil filter will prevent oil from entering the engine and other moving parts.
Without enough oil, the first thing you will expect is the engine overheating and metal grinding against other metals.
Whenever you hear this noise, you should bring your car to an immediate halt and seek professional help in changing your oil filter.
Dirty Exhaust Fumes
A clogged oil filter will most likely leak oil into the exhaust pipe. This is the main reason a vehicle will give dirt and dark, grey, or bluish smoke.
If you ever realize dirt smoke and oil burn smoke coming from your tailpipe, it may be a sign that the filter needs a replacement.
Overheating Engine
A problem with the oil filter means there is little or no oil entering the engine. This will result in metals grinding with each other.
The friction as a result of grinding will generate heat in the engine. An overheating engine will lead to many problems.
Engine Sputtering
A dirt oil filter will not release enough oil to the engine as it should. This will affect the speed of your vehicle.
If you realize a softer sputter that worsens as you move, it’s a sign that you need to change your oil filter.
6 Things to Consider When Buying an Oil Filter
1. Size and Model Number
Size and model number are critical considerations when it comes to choosing the best oil filter.
You will want to ensure that you buy the oil filter that is the right size for your vehicle so that it fits correctly.
Installing the wrong oil filter size in your car will result in leaks and other related issues. The best thing to do is to refer to your car’s manual to see the recommended size and model number.
2. Filter Medium
It’s essential to keep in mind that different filter media work differently. Some are made of cellulose while others are made of synthetic fibers. Also consider buying a filter that has up to 50% usable membrane surface, usually made of cellulose, synthetic media, or micro-glass fiber.
Cellulose filters can go up to 3000 miles before they need replacement while synthetic filters can go up to 7000 miles.
There are also some filter media that are made of micro glass because and they are the most preferred since they go up to ten thousand miles without replacement. These membranes effectively remove particles. and they are the most preferred they are durable.
3. Capacity
This refers to the filter’s ability to hold contaminants. In oil filters, the filtration medium used and the build quality plays a crucial role in determining the filter’s capacity.
Oil filters with a larger capacity have a longer change interval, and they are better since you won’t have to worry about changing your oil filter often.
While most oil filters offer a capacity of at least 10 grams, there are other premium options that can deliver up to 28 grams.
4. Ease of Use
Whether you are good with vehicles or not, the best oil filter should be easy to install. It shouldn’t require you to hire a mechanic.
However, not all oil filters are easy to use or install. Before buying your oil filter, it’s crucial to ensure that you can install it.
Some of the essential things you should check for ease of installation include size, weight, and the overall housing design. The installation instructions are also crucial.
5. Construction
It’s also vital to ensure that the oil filter you want to buy is made from quality materials to guarantee that it can withstand high pressures.
Keep in mind that poorly made oil filters will not be durable enough. Some of the best materials for oil filters include metals like steel and aluminum.
6. Cost
Lastly, it’s important to consider the amount of money you are willing to spend on the best oil filter.
Generally, the oil filter’s price ranges from $5 to $25 and above. Plan your budget well and buy a product that is best for your money.
7. Size of the internal valving, threads, and gasket
If you are buying a spin-on filter, choose an oil filter that is similar to the manufacturer oil filter with:
- a hole at the bottom that has the same diameter as the manufacturer installed one
- similar thread as the manufacturer
- and the filter should be marked SAE
- the positioning of the new gasket matches the original
Using the incorrect oil filter can result in oil leakages and damage to the mounting.
FAQs For The Best Oil Filter
What makes a good oil filter?
A good oil filter has:
1. Up to 50% usable membrane surface, made of cellulose, synthetic media, or micro-glass fiber.
2. An anti-drain-back valve that holds the motor oi inside the oil filter and does not allow it to drain when the ignition is turned off. When the engine is turned back on, the oil pressure is better and allows it to reach vital engine parts sooner.
3. A bi-pass valve that prevents the oil from reaching vital components when there is a clog.
4. A non-slip coating that will make it easier to replace the oil filter media when required. This is specific to spin-on oil filters.
Are cheap oil filters okay?
Cheap oil filters are made of a low standard material and introduce the potential for:
– Oil leak from the oil seal
– Stripped threads
– bursting
– By pass valve failed
– Drain back failure
– Media breakdown blocking oil galleries
– Media breakdown blocking timing chain tensioner
– Engine manufacturers warranty denied because of cheap oil filter fitted
What happens if you change the oil but not the oil filter?
If you change the oil but not the oil filter, the filter can become clogged and reduce the volume of oil passing through the filter and cause your engine damage.
How do I know if my oil filter is clogged?
Here are 5 signs that your oil filter is clogged if:
1. Low Oil Pressure gauge signal is on or dropping
2. Sound of metal grinding against other metal
3. Dirty Exhaust Fumes
4. Overheating Engine
5. Engine Sputtering
Summary – The 10 Best Oil Filters
Knowing which oil filter is best for your car is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is running properly. There are many on the market and it’s important to understand which one is best for your vehicle.
We’ve chosen Bosch 3330 Premium FILTECH Oil Filter as our top overall pick. Consumers report that after testing particulates in oil samples, there was <0.1 percent. It has synthetic media, silicone anti-drain back, and an easy-grip cap. And you can’t beat the price.
If you’re on a budget, the FRAM PH7317 Extra Guard Oil Filter is a great option. Consumers report that they believe this filter works well enough and they really like the price point.
Last update on 2023-07-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API