Wow, you really have been saving up oil filter questions for 50 years, Randy. I'm glad you didn't wait another 10 years or I'd have to take over the Real Estate section to finish this answer.
The reason there are so many different filters is because engines are all different. And space is at a premium. Most engine compartments I work on these days have no room to spare. So when designing an engine, all the immovable parts are designed first. Then later in the process, they find a place for the filter, preferably right on the engine block. In order to fit oil filters into the nooks and crannies manufacturers ultimately allot for them, filters have to come in all different shapes and sizes.
Generally speaking, more expensive filters are better than cheap ones, because they use better filtration materials. Instead of plain old Charmin, filters now use materials like synthetic glass microfibers, which do a better job of filtering the oil. That's also why smaller filters can be used. With better filtration materials, they can provide all the filtration the engine needs in a smaller volume.
We tend to stick with OEM filters -- the filters made by the car's manufacturer. You can never go wrong with those. Modern filters also have check valves, which explains why the oil doesn't drain out of your Subaru filter, even though it's mounted upside-down. Without a check valve, the oil would drain out, and that would be a problem. If the oil drained out, every time you started your car, your oil pump first would have to fill the oil filter, leaving other parts under lubricated for those first few crucial seconds that the engine is running. But the check valve keeps the filter full and completely solves that problem.
So, basically, Randy, there's nothing to worry about. Stick with a Subaru filter or other quality brand, and you'll get all the filtration you need. I'll look forward to hearing from you in 50 years.
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.