Your car engine’s oil filter has the all important job of removing all particles larger than 20-30 microns from the engine oil. Those minute particles consist of tiny metal shavings from normal engine wear. If they are not removed from the motor oil, they will constantly recirculate and act like sandpaper on your engine’s moving parts. This would dramatically increase engine wear.
Because not all oil filters are created equally, it’s very important to choose the right oil filter for your car. Because there are so many oil filters on the market, it’s not easy to pick the best filter for your budget or use.
That’s why we did the research so you don’t have to. We filtered out (pun intended) the best ones and lined them up for your convenience.
These are the oil filters we recommend:
Different Types of Oil Filters
There are basically two types of oil filters commonly used today: spin-on and cartridge-style oil filters.
The spin-on filter is by far the most widely used. It’s a sealed steel canister with a filter element inside. Spin-on filters are the easiest to replace. Any DIYer can replace them due to the simple spin-off, spin-on installation process with minimal spillage and hardly need for tools.
Cartridge-style oil filters on the other hand, were used for classic, vintage or antique cars up to the middle of the 20th century when they were replaced by the spin-on oil filter.
However, the cartridge oil filter is regaining ground fast as an eco-friendly alternative to the spin-on filter. Because its filter housing can be opened up, only the filter element has to be replaced. Most filter cartridge filter elements have no metal parts, which makes it easier and more economical to recycle.
What Makes a Good Cartridge Oil Filter?
A cartridge oil filter has a simple basic design because all filter valves are situated in the permanent filter housing. A typical cartridge oil filter consists of roughly 3 major components that have to fit perfectly and are made of quality oil resistant materials:
- Plastic frame: has to be sturdy to keep the filter element in place and ensure a correct fit. It’s the “skeleton” of the cartridge filter. Some cartridge filters are reinforced with metal parts for extra rigidity.
- Filter material: cellulose, resin-impregnated cellulose, synthetic and microglass materials are used. The material should filter out contaminants and metal particles while retaining high-flow capacities. The average oil filter retains about 95% of 30 micron particles or larger. The higher the filtration percentage and the lower the micron rating, the better the filter material performs.
- O-Gasket material: the included O-gaskets must be made from oil- and heat resistant material and fit correctly to prevent oil leaks
What Makes a Good Spin-on Oil Filter?
Contrary to a cartridge oil filter, a spin-on oil filter consists of different components. Each component has to be designed properly and made of quality materials to guarantee optimal oil filtration and engine lubrication:
- Canister material: the metal canister has to be well-built, corrosion-resistant and sturdy enough to resist oil pressure and manipulation during installment and removal of the oil filter
- Gasket material: the exterior o-gasket has to seal snugly and should be made of oil- and heat resistant material to prevent oil leaks
- Filter material: cellulose, resin-impregnated cellulose, synthetic and microglass materials are used. The material should filter out contaminants and metal particles while retaining high-flow capacities. The average oil filter retains about 95% of 30 micron particles or larger. The higher the filtration percentage and the lower the micron rating, the better the filter material performs.
- Anti Drain Back Valve: To minimize oil starvation because of the oil flowing out of the filter, and more importantly to keep larger particles trapped inside the oil filter, a nitrile or silicone valve closes the oil intake channels of the oil filter when the engine is switched off.
- Bypass valve: In cold startup conditions when the oil is very thick or when the oil filter is clogged and oil pressure builds beyond acceptable levels, a built-in bypass valve releases pressure by opening. Oil will be able to pass the filter element unfiltered, which is still better than running the engine without oil. Once the oil warms and thins, the valve will shut and normal filtering will resume. With a clogged filter, the valve will stay open, letting all contamination pass, which in turn will lead to premature engine wear.
How we did our review
We’ve tried and tested a lot of different oil filters for our cars (older daily drivers, new High Performance sports cars, classic cars…). Armed with a critical eye and an oil filter opener we gained loads of hands-on insight over the years too.
Though we clearly had our preferred oil filter brands before even starting our research for this “Best Of”, for this review we even dove deeper in the manufacturer specifications and compared other reviews to see what their experience was. We sorted through user reviews to learn how the oil filter performed on other types of vehicles and in different conditions and only recommended oil filters that did an excellent job for us as well as and the vast majority of other car enthusiasts.
In our selection, we also considered availability and pricing as a major factor. After all, what good is an oil filter that you can’t get? Or an oil filter you pay double just because there’s a different brand on it?
Our aim is to make it easy for you to select an oil filter according to your specific type of car, budget and needs.
Check out our favorite oil filters:
Best Overall Spin-on Oil Filter
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Best Overall Spin-on
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Specs:
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- Type: Spin-On
- Canister Material: Metal
- Gasket Material: Nitrile (HNBR)
- Filter Material: Synthetic
- Anti-drain Back Valve: Yes
- Bypass Valve: Yes
- Filtration: 99% efficient @ 35 microns
- Protection: up to 10,000 miles
We chose this filter from the inventors of the spin-on oil filter as our “Best Overall” because it’s a high quality filter that’s designed and manufactured without compromise at a very competitive price. And yes, we have to admit that we’re a big fan of the WIX brand because they make such great filters for affordable prices. WIX XP filters last up to 10,000 miles.
Over 96% of customers state that they are very satisfied with this oil filter and that the vast majority of reviewers say that they’ve been using WIX filters for years and they will continue to do so.
We’ve been using this type of filter for years now, and we’ve never had issues.
PROS:
- Provides superb engine protection even when towing, extreme long idling, low gear mountain climbing or driving at highway speeds for long periods
- Full synthetic filter material is made to withstands the harshest conditions
- Specifically formulated HNBR gasket resists hardening to provide excellent sealing properties during extreme cold engine starts and under elevated oil temperatures
- Silicone anti-drain back valve protects against dry starts and prevents contaminated oil flowing back
- High filtration efficiency of 99% at 35 microns
- Made for today’s OE longer service intervals
CONS:
- An oil filter pliers may be needed to remove the filter
Best Budget Spin-on Oil Filter
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Best Budget Spin-on
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Specs:
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- Type: Spin-On
- Canister Material: Metal
- Gasket Material: Nitrile
- Filter Material: Blend of natural and synthetic materials
- Anti-drain Back Valve: Yes
- Bypass Valve: Yes
- Filtration: 99.9% efficient @ 20 microns
- Protection: up to 10,000 miles
When you compare this Bosch oil filter to its budget priced competitors, it’s obvious that it has more to offer for less. That’s why we’ve selected it as our “Best Budget” oil filter.
The Bosch Premium Filtech Oil Filter meets all OEM requirements with a variety of sizes that will fit just like the original filter. Its filter material is made from a blend of natural and synthetic fibers that give it 99.9% efficiency and it can hold up to 14 grams of dirt, which is way better than the average.
Customers agree that this is just the most bang for your buck and that they are very satisfied with their purchase. And we’re talking large numbers here, this is one of the best selling budget filters out there.
Knowing you get all this trusted Bosch technology for just over a fiver, we think that’s an unbeatable deal. No need to “twist our wrist” on this one, pun intended.
PROS:
- OE fit and strong canister with strong steel base plate prevent warpage, leaks, and poor fit
- Exclusive FILTECH media technology filters more harmful particles, preventing premature wear and engine failure
- 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns
- Can hold up to 14 grams of dirt and particles
- High lubricity nitrile gasket design provides a tight, leak-proof seal
- Silicone anti-drain back valve ensures engine receives a supply of clean oil at cold startup
CONS:
- An oil filter pliers may be needed to remove the filter
Best Premium Spin-on Oil Filter
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Best Premium Spin-on
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Specs:
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- Type: Spin-On
- Canister Material: Heavy-Duty Metal
- Gasket Material: High Temperature Nitrile
- Filter Material: Synthetic blend High Flow premium media
- Anti-drain Back Valve: Yes
- Bypass Valve: Yes
- Filtration is 98% efficient @ 30 microns
- Protection: up to 20,000 miles
The reason why we chose this K&N oil filter as our “Best Premium” is because it combines a very fine, effective oil filtration with an exceptionally high flow rate. This makes this premium filter best suited for all kinds of High Performance, race or Heavy Duty applications. It can also be used on any standard vehicle, of course.
Customers write in their reviews that they buy this oil filter because it is the best oil filter, period. They say they don’t mind paying a few bucks more to get the best. Users also love the nut on the top because it makes it so much easier to get it off.
In our experience, this filter can make a big difference in providing better filtration when an engine is under heavy loads like high revving speeds or high torque.
K&N’s Premium oil filter will increase oil flow by up to 10% in these situations, which is a big deal when it comes to lubricating and cooling a stressed engine. Our opinion is that any High Performance vehicle should be equipped with this awesome filter. It will easily withstand the service intervals recommended by vehicle manufacturers under any circumstances up to 20,000 miles.
PROS:
- Synthetic blend filtration media provide exceptionally high oil flow rates while removing most harmful contaminants
- For use with all synthetic, conventional, and blended motor oils
- Excellent capacity and extreme burst strength, laboratory tested
- Fast and easy Wrench-Off® removal with welded one-inch hex nut
- Heavy-duty canister for outstanding durability
- High capacity to cope with longer service intervals recommended by vehicle manufacturers
- High efficiency filtration: traps up to 98% of contaminants at 30 microns
CONS:
- Premium price for Premium Quality
Best Overall Cartridge Oil Filter
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Best Overall Cartridge
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Specs:
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- Type: Cartridge
- Filter material: Cellulose
- Frame material: Plastic
- Gasket material: Nitril
- Filtration: 17 micron
- Flow rate: Normal
- Protection: up to 10,000 miles
We chose this WIX cartridge oil filter, which is available in different designs for different applications, for our “Best Overall” because it combines a solid construction with an excellent filtering capability of 17 micron without breaking the bank. Good seals ensure a perfect fit without oil leaks. It provides excellent engine protection using conventional, synthetic, or blended motor oils and in all driving conditions. This filter is designed to last way past the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended service mileage.
The vast majority of reviewers agree that this WIX oil filter fits snugly just like the OEM ones but at a much more affordable price.
We think this oil filter series is excellent value and we highly recommend it if you’re looking for a filter that outperforms the OEM ones at a much lower price.
PROS:
- Very fine filtration: 17 micron
- For use with all synthetic, conventional, and blended motor oils
- For use in all driving conditions
- Proven WIX know-how and technology
CONS:
- We don’t think it’s fair that the industry charges more for a simple non-metal cartridge filter than for a metal spin-on filter with a complex design. Guess that’s because it’s “ECO”?
Best Budget Cartridge Oil Filter
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Best Budget Cartridge
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Specs:
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- Type: Cartridge
- Filter material: Cellulose Synthetic Blend
- Frame material: Plastic
- Gasket material: Nitril
- Filtration: 95% @ 20 microns
- Flow rate: Normal
- Protection: up to 10,000 miles
We chose a FRAM cartridge oil filter for our “Best Budget”, although we know that may make some of our visitors frown. In the past, there seem to have been some problems with FRAM spin-on filter materials that were no good. However, that doesn’t mean that all FRAM filters are rubbish! The vast majority works just fine with no issues at all and often they’re more affordable than most competitors.
This FRAM Extra Guard cartridge filter design is a good example of decent FRAM engineering: a great fit, innovative cellulose-synthetic blend filter media and good reliable seals. And, because of those minor hiccups in the past that scared some people away, you can now benefit from arguably the most affordable pricing in the cartridge oil filter market, in an effort to win you back. It offers proven protection for up to 10,000 miles. Go and check it out for yourself, we’re already convinced.
Customers who have tried this filter series agree that it is an excellent choice and a big cost-saver. Over 94% of customers are very satisfied about their purchase and would buy this filter again.
In our experience, this cartridge filter is a great way to save some money and still get the job done decently, even if you’re on a tight budget.
PROS:
- Ideal oil filter for daily drivers with oil changes at recommended intervals
- For use with all synthetic, conventional, and blended motor oils
- Extended 10,000 miles engine protection
- Quality gaskets and O-rings manufactured to endure the high pressures and high temperatures
- Cellulose-synthetic blended media traps and holds 95% of 20 micron particles and larger
CONS:
- We don’t think it’s fair that the industry charges more for a simple non-metal cartridge filter than for a metal spin-on filter with a complex design. Guess that’s because it’s “ECO”?
Best Premium Cartridge Oil Filter
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Best Premium Cartridge
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Specs:
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- Type: Cartridge
- Filter material: SmartFUSION Full Synthetic
- Frame material: Plastic / Polymer Mesh
- Gasket material: PuroSEAL Ethylene-Acrylic
- Filtration: 99%
- Flow rate: High Flow
- Protection: Up to 15,000 miles
Our choice for “Best Premium” is the Purolator BOSS filter, which comes in many designs according to your type of vehicle.
Since Purolator invented the first automotive oil filter in 1923, it’s been innovating oil filtration systems continuously, making the brand one of the authorities in the industry.
With its SmartFusion filter media and steel casing, this is arguably the most performant cartridge filter you can get. This unique full synthetic filter media features a reinforced polymer mesh backing for expanded dirt holding capacity. Once filtered, the contaminants won’t be able to escape because of the superior PuroSEAL gasket made from ethylene-acrylic.
Reviewers say that it looks the part: it feels sturdy and the filtration material inspires confidence. They say that it’s a snug fit too.
In our opinion, you pay what you get. In this case, you get a premium quality that’s worth every single dime.
PROS:
- Designed for full synthetic oils, but can be used for all types of oil
- Extreme engine protection up to 15,000 miles
- High 99% filtration efficiency
- Unique SmartFUSION full-synthetic filter media with reinforced polymer mesh backing for expanded dirt holding capacity
CONS:
- We don’t think it’s fair that the industry charges more for a simple non-metal cartridge filter than for a metal spin-on filter with a complex design. Guess that’s because it’s “ECO”?
Comparison Table of the Best Oil Filters
| Brand | Name | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall Spin-on | WIX | XP Oil Filter |
| Best Budget Spin-on | BOSCH | Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology |
| Best Premium Spin-on | K&N | Premium Oil Filter |
| Best Overall Cartridge | WIX | Cartridge Lube Metal Free Oil Filter |
| Best Budget Cartridge | FRAM | Extra Guard 10K Mile Change Interval Cartridge Oil Filter |
| Best Premium Cartridge | Purolator | BOSS Maximum Engine Protection Cartridge Oil Filter |
Final Thoughts
Which one is the winner?
Well, that depends on your car’s specifications and your budget. Each of these oil filters have their specific advantages:
If your car needs a spin-on oil filter and you don’t mind spending more to get the best oil filter, we highly recommend K&N’s Premium Oil Filter. K&N was born on the unforgiving dirt racetrack and packs over 50 years experience. If this filter doesn’t cut it, nothing will.
Budget-wise, the Bosch Filtech makes the most sense. It is the most bang for your buck and we can’t believe how much you get for that little money.
Don’t want to spend more than you need to but you’re looking for the best balance between quality and price? You should definitely go for a WIX XP filter then. This may be the best deal ever: It’s trusted high quality filtration technology for an affordable price.
If your car needs a cartridge oil filter and you won’t settle for anything less than the best, the Purolator BOSS series is the perfect match for you. It’s the best oil filter from the inventors of the oil filter. It outperforms most, if not all competitors.
Don’t want to spend that much? If budget is priority, you should go for the Fram Extra Guard. It’s worth much more than what you pay for, that’s for sure! Don’t let the FRAM brand name scare you, this filter won’t disappoint!
If you’re the type of smart consumer that is looking for that steal that offers high quality at an affordable price, grab a Wix Cartridge Metal Free Filter, you won’t find this awesome quality at a lower price!
Well, we’re all filtered and done…
We hope that our article was helpful in your search for an oil filter. Hope you enjoyed reading our “Top 6 Best Oil Filters” as much as we did researching and writing it.
See you on the next!
Happy Cruisin’!
FAQ’s
How Do I Know When to Change the Oil Filter?
On average, an engine oil filter needs to be changed every 5,000-8,000 miles, some only need to be replaced every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.
However, it’s better to change your oil filter sooner than later, especially for heavy duty vehicles and vehicles that only do short distances. For more specifics, consult your car owner’s manual.
How Do I Know Which Type of Oil Filter Fits My Car?
First check your car owner’s manual for specifications.
If you don’t have a car owner’s manual or you can’t find the information you need, you can just click on any oil filter link anywhere in this article and you’ll be redirected to a page with a search bar at the top. Fill in your car brand, model and year and the right oil filters will pop up.
It’s that simple!
Why You Should Trust Our Reviews And Content
All our website content and reviews are 100% unique, protected and based on our own thorough research.
They are the result of our hands-on testing, data analytics, expert consultation and customer review analysis, enhanced by our own extensive expertise.
We do not compromise: our focal point is always on you, our valued visitor.
Our website content and reviews are your unbiased, unsponsored tools to get the job done better and quicker, with less expense.
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3 thoughts on “Top 6 Best Oil Filters 2024”
It is hard to take you seriously when you include the fram extra guard as a top filter based on how cheap it is. Obviously you have not seen how little it actually filters. I actually used it for over 35 years until I saw how it was made. But I recently saw a brand rank review where they actually tested the four fram oil filters for filtering efficiency and capacity. The extra guard left over 1500 parts per million at 20-38 microns. Worse it left over 300 parts per million at 38-over 70 microns. The ultra guard left 42 particles per million at 20-38 microns and 2-3 of the larger particles.
Hi, thank you for visiting our website and sharing your thoughts. Your input is valuable to us!
We appreciate your concerns about Fram filters, especially given the varying opinions found online. It’s true that there’s a widespread belief, often fueled by anecdotal evidence and potentially influenced by competing oil filter brands, that Fram filters are subpar. However, in our research for the best oil filters, we didn’t find conclusive evidence supporting these claims.
While it’s clear that Fram filters may not match the performance of premium, high-end filters, our findings suggest that the negativity surrounding them, particularly the “Orange Can Of Death” narrative, seems to be more of a sensationalized internet phenomenon than a reflection of their actual quality.
Regarding past incidents of filter failure, such occurrences are not unique to Fram and have been reported across various brands over the years. Most mechanics we’ve consulted agree that Fram filters perform adequately for their price point, effectively filtering out a significant percentage of particles. This makes them a viable option for everyday vehicles serviced at regular intervals.
It’s important to note that most engine issues are not directly linked to the brand of oil filter used, but rather to overall maintenance practices. Regular oil changes, ideally every 10,000 miles for filters like Fram’s, are crucial. Often, there’s an observed correlation between those opting for more economical oil filters and a tendency towards infrequent maintenance. This lack of regular care, rather than the filter itself, typically leads to engine problems. The same issues would likely arise with premium filters if maintenance is neglected.
Your experience of using Fram filters for over 35 years without any major issues is noteworthy. It suggests that, at least in your case, these filters have been reliable. This aligns with many user reviews and testimonials we’ve encountered during our research, indicating that Fram filters can be a cost-effective solution for routine vehicle maintenance.
We understand that Fram filters might not be the ideal choice for high-performance or luxury vehicles, but for standard daily use, they offer a reasonable balance of efficiency and affordability.
In the spirit of providing balanced information, we’ve included some links to reviews that present various perspectives on Fram filters:
YouTube Review 1,
YouTube Review 2
We believe it’s important to consider both positive and negative feedback to make an informed decision.
Ultimately, the choice of oil filter depends on individual preferences and vehicle requirements. You can choose the option that you feel is most suitable for your vehicle.
Thank you again for engaging with us, and we wish you safe and enjoyable driving!
Best regards!
This makes a lot of sense. I was scratching my head too when I saw all the negative comments about the Fram filters. I used multiple of them over 20 years and didn’t have any issues with them. When you dig deeper you never see anyone complain about one failing them, so I’m wondering where this narrative comes from?