Are OEM filters worth it?

Author: Eden Effertz DVM  |  Last update: Saturday, May 31, 2025

You bet your new car warranty and the long life of your engine! An OEM filter is designed to handle the exact flow rates, pressures, temperatures, and filtration requirements demanded by your performance engine. Going with anything less than OEM quality can lead to costly repairs.

Are OEM engine filters better than aftermarket?

The actual truth is the OEM can flow more air than your engine can use. While it is true that an oiled filter can flow more air it does it by letting more dirt through. Since the OEM is not a bottle neck the downside of dirt and maintenance tip the scales to make OEM the best bang for the buck.

Do I have to use OEM air filter?

It's not only imperative to replace your filters at the right times and frequencies, but with the right type: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) filters are a far better option than “knockoff” brands.

Are OEM fuel filters better?

The Bottom Line

OEM is the far better and more economical choice. Aftermarket fuel filters fall short in terms of material quality, fitment, and warranty. It's because while an aftermarket fuel filter functionally replaces the original part, it's not an exact fit.

Is fram as good as OEM?

For what it's worth the OEM filter is made by Mahle. They are similar for sure, but the quality is definitely much higher on the OEM part. The mold flashing on the Fram was terrible, where as OEM was nice and clean.

My Rant on Cheap Oil Filters and why I use OEM

Why was FRAM banned?

Fram was banned as the Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) perceived that he was harassing users; the full details of this have not been released.

Is a Wix oil filter better than a FRAM?

In most respects, the Wix and the OEM Toyota filter match up, so it's not really clear that one is any better than the other. What's more, the Fram/MicroGard filters would seem to be close to the Wix and OEM filters in terms of performance.

Are expensive fuel filters worth it?

Anyone using a high-quality filter and regularly replacing it as specified by the vehicle manufacturer does not make any compromises, which could be costly, in protecting the engine and fuel system. For the inspected filter, the maintenance interval would have been four years, which was significantly exceeded.

How long does OEM air filter last?

Service experts generally recommend changing an engine air filter every 30,000 miles, or sometimes, every 45,000 miles. Still, even this range can vary depending on how you drive. Read on or contact our service experts to learn more about engine air filter maintenance and replacement.

Is there a difference between cheap and expensive oil filters?

Cheap and economy oil filters use inferior-quality materials like plastic and have cardboard end discs that can not withstand long service intervals, repeated shocks, vibrations, and thermal cycles.

What does OEM mean in filters?

OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. In the world of refrigerator water filters, an OEM filter is a water filter manufactured by the same company that made your refrigerator.

Do cars really need new air filters?

Not only will this help ensure that your engine is getting sufficient airflow, but it can also help improve fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact. It's recommended that you change your car's air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on how often you drive and the type of environment you live in.

How do you clean an OEM air filter?

Directions for Cleaning an Air Filter:
  1. Remove the filter. Take the air filter out, taking care to make sure no dirt or debris falls into the airbox or intake. ...
  2. Apply cleaning solution. Spray the filter with Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner and let it soak.
  3. Rinse. ...
  4. Dry. ...
  5. Oil and replace.

Is it OK to use aftermarket air filters?

Some may even be superior to OEM parts.

But when it comes to air filters at least, research has shown that there is little to no improvement in performance to using aftermarket air filters.

How long does an OEM oil filter last?

Generally, oil filters can last between 5,000 and 10,000 miles or up to one year.

Why are K&N oil filters better?

Your oil filter also has to strike a balance between filtering out pollutants and allowing oil to flow freely into your engine. K&N premium oil filters balance high flow rates with outstanding filtration, making them a top choice for performance-minded drivers from the race track to the on-ramp.

Do expensive air filters last longer?

Expensive air filters are made from higher-quality materials, like fiberglass, that can last for up to 12 months. This not only saves you money, but it's also more convenient since you won't have to remember to replace your air filters as often.

How often should I replace my car air filter?

Q: Do you know how often to change the car air filter? A: Typically, it should be inspected once a year or every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, but this can vary based on the car and driving environment. If you often drive through dusty terrain or on unpaved roads, you may need to change it more frequently.

Does a better air filter increase mpg?

New and clean air filters improve gas mileage

It has been scientifically proven that by simply replacing the air filter on a car, it's possible to get at least 10% better gas mileage. That's as good as saving 15 cents a gallon every time you fill up, all whilst helping to keep your engine in optimal condition.

Are premium filters worth it?

But do consider that if you go with a High-Efficiency Particulate Filter (HEPA), the most expensive on the market, they typically last twice as long as a regular filter. So if you choose to go expensive, it might make sense to go all out on HEPA filters and buy filters less often.

Does a K&N fuel filter make a difference?

K&N® performance fuel filters help to protect your engine from fuel debris and contaminants which can cause wear and/or build-up on your intake valves, fuel injectors, and even carburetor jets.

Are Napa and Wix filters the same?

NapaGold Oil Filter vs Wix

Wix makes the NapaGold and the Napa Platinum; they are identical in construction and are made on the same production line.

Who has the best oil filters?

Best oil filters reviews for 2022
  • STP Extended Life Oil Filter. One of the best oil filters for synthetic oil is the STP Extended Life Oil Filter. ...
  • STP Oil Filter. ...
  • ACDelco Oil Filter. ...
  • Fram Extra Guard Oil Filter. ...
  • K&N High Performance Oil Filter. ...
  • Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil Filter.

Who is FRAM oil made by?

FRAM Conventional/Synthetic Motor Oil | Advance Professional. FRAM Motor Oil is engineered for superior performance by Amalie Oil and sold exclusively at Advance Professional and Carquest.

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