I've read a bunch of reviews on here...mostly either people saying that Fram makes the worst oil filters on the planet, or that there's absolutely nothing wrong with them.
I've read a bunch of reviews on here...mostly either people saying that Fram makes the worst oil filters on the planet, or that there's absolutely nothing wrong with them.I just want to know, so long as I change my oil at the proper intervals, does the brand of filter I use make any difference? Fram's are available everywhere, will they work as good as the next filter? Wal-Mart has their SuperTech brand...are they just as good as the name brands, or would I be slowly sabotaging my car by saving $2 per filter? Or, are the people who bash Fram correct, in that I should be shelling out $15-20 for a top-notch oil filter?I also read a lot of reviews by people obsessed with using only Bosch oil filters.... never tried one, so I don't know.So, what's your opinion? Are there any brands you'd definitely stay away from? What about listing two or three quality brands? And are discount filters to be avoided?
Let’s not run from the truth. You’ll save a few bucks on an aftermarket oil filter — no doubt about it. But take a step back for a second. Businesses need to make some money in order to stay in business. So when an aftermarket oil filter is sold for less than the price of fast-food coffee, you’ve got to wonder what that filter costs to produce.
The real answer is next to nothing. Aftermarket oil filters are produced on the cheap because inferior materials are used. There’s almost no quality control, not to mention the final assembly coming from unskilled hands at a high-volume facility where one size is supposed to fit all.
This isn’t just true for Chevy and other GM vehicles. This rule holds for all other OEMs. The highest level of quality and attention to detail comes with OEM parts. Manufacturers spend years developing their vehicles, and in order to ensure consumer satisfaction, all parts must uphold the highest level of fit, finish, and performance.
Sure, you’ll pay a little more for a premium product, but we’ll help you save as much as we can with our invaluable oil filter coupons. Now, here’s the other thing concerning OEM vs. aftermarket oil filters: your warranty.
Did you know that your original powertrain warranty demands proper service and maintenance? Failure to use OEM oil filters can void your engine’s warranty. Saving a few bucks at the quick lube has led some of our customers to the brink of a financial crisis. We’ve seen it all — incorrect oil weights and types. Loose, missing, or the wrong oil filter installed. Low oil. You name it.
When you sign off on the work order from the quick lube, what you don’t see should scare you. Usually, on the back of the work order, there’s a disclaimer saying that by signing the work order, you waive the shop of any potential liabilities if mechanical damage results from their service.
And guess who is on the hook for major engine repairs? Yup. You.
Oil filter quality does make a difference. Friction, heat, and particles are your engine’s enemy. Only an OEM filter is designed to lubricate according to your engine specifications. An OEM filter is also designed to protect your engine but also the company. Think about that for a second. Sure, they want you happy. But they also want to safeguard themselves from potential liabilities. And the best way to do that is with quality materials — every time.
Look at it another way. Do you think million-dollar race teams use the $2.99 oil filter? Nope. They don’t. Every part counts, and one of the best ways they can ensure a finish — and a win — is with parts they can rely on.