Everything You Need to Know About Mopar Engine Oil Filters: Selection, Maintenance, and Performance​

2025-10-14

If you own a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle, understanding the role of your Mopar engine oil filter is critical to maintaining your engine’s longevity, efficiency, and performance. A high-quality Mopar oil filter isn’t just an accessory—it’s a precision-engineered component designed to protect your engine from harmful contaminants, ensure proper oil flow, and preserve warranty coverage. This guide will break down everything you need to know: how Mopar oil filters work, why choosing the right one matters, installation best practices, maintenance tips, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re a DIY mechanic or rely on a professional, this information will help you make informed decisions to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years.

What Does a Mopar Engine Oil Filter Actually Do?

At its core, an engine oil filter’s job is to trap contaminants in your engine oil before they circulate through critical components like bearings, pistons, and camshafts. Over time, oil breaks down and picks up dirt, metal shavings, soot, and sludge—all byproducts of combustion and normal wear. A Mopar oil filter uses a combination of synthetic media, pleated design, and pressure relief valves to:

  • ​Filter Contaminants: Most Mopar filters capture particles as small as 20 microns (about the thickness of a human hair), preventing abrasive damage to engine parts.

  • ​Maintain Oil Flow: Even under high pressure (up to 60 PSI in some engines), the filter ensures oil reaches vital components without restriction.

  • ​Prevent Backflow: A built-in anti-drainback valve keeps oil in the filter when the engine is off, so fresh oil doesn’t drain back into the pan and leave components unprotected at startup.

  • ​Handle Extreme Conditions: Mopar filters are tested to withstand temperatures from -40°F to 300°F, making them reliable in cold winters or hot summer driving.

Without a functioning filter, contaminants would quickly circulate, causing accelerated wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potentially catastrophic engine failure. This is why using a Mopar-specific filter—engineered for your vehicle’s exact specs—is non-negotiable for many owners.

Why Choose a Mopar Oil Filter Over Third-Party Brands?

While aftermarket oil filters are widely available, Mopar filters offer unique advantages tied to their design, testing, and compatibility:

1. Factory Compatibility

Mopar filters are engineered to match your vehicle’s original equipment (OE) specifications. This means the thread size, gasket type, and overall dimensions are guaranteed to fit without leaks or modifications. For example, a 2020 Jeep Wrangler JL with a 3.6L Pentastar engine requires a specific Mopar filter (part number 05091074AB) that aligns with its oil pump pressure and bypass valve settings. Third-party filters may claim “universal fit,” but even minor deviations can lead to oil starvation or excessive pressure buildup.

2. Rigorous Testing Standards

Mopar subjects its oil filters to stringent testing, including:

  • ​Flow Rate Testing: Ensures oil passes through the filter at the rate your engine demands, even under high RPMs or towing loads.

  • ​Contaminant Retention Testing: Verifies the filter captures 99% of particles 20 microns and larger, per industry standards like ISO 4548.

  • ​Burst Pressure Testing: Confirms the filter can handle pressures up to 500 PSI without failing—a critical safety measure.

Third-party brands often skip these tests or use lower-quality materials, risking premature failure.

3. Warranty Protection

Using non-Mopar parts can void your vehicle’s powertrain warranty. If your engine fails due to contaminated oil traced back to an aftermarket filter, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram may deny your claim. Sticking with Mopar filters ensures you’re covered for defects and related damages.

4. Consistent Performance

Mopar filters are designed to work seamlessly with your vehicle’s oil life monitoring system (if equipped). They maintain optimal oil cleanliness, which helps the system accurately calculate when an oil change is needed—preventing unnecessary changes or extended intervals that could harm the engine.

Key Specifications to Consider When Choosing a Mopar Oil Filter

Not all Mopar oil filters are created equal. Depending on your vehicle’s engine type, driving habits, and climate, you may need to prioritize specific features:

1. Micron Rating

The micron rating indicates the smallest particle the filter can trap. Most Mopar filters use a synthetic blend media with a 20-micron rating, which balances filtration efficiency with flow rate. For high-performance engines (e.g., the 6.4L HEMI in the Dodge Challenger SRT), some Mopar filters use a 15-micron media for added protection under extreme stress.

2. Bypass Valve Pressure

Every oil filter includes a bypass valve that opens if the filter becomes clogged, allowing unfiltered oil to flow to the engine. Mopar sets this pressure based on your engine’s design. For example, a heavy-duty truck like the Ram 2500 with a Cummins diesel engine has a higher bypass pressure (around 50 PSI) compared to a light-duty Jeep Renegade (30 PSI). Using a filter with the wrong bypass pressure could starve the engine of oil if the filter clogs.

3. Anti-Drainback Valve Material

This rubber or silicone valve prevents oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off. Mopar uses high-temperature elastomers that resist cracking in extreme heat, ensuring immediate oil pressure at startup. Cheaper filters may use inferior valves that harden over time, leading to dry starts and accelerated wear.

4. Vehicle Compatibility

Always cross-reference your vehicle’s year, make, model, and engine type with Mopar’s part finder tool (available on their website or through dealerships). For example, a 2015 Chrysler 200 with a 2.4L Tigershark engine uses a different filter (05091073AC) than a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 5.7L HEMI (05091074AA). Mixing these up can cause leaks or improper filtration.

How to Install a Mopar Engine Oil Filter: Step-by-Step Best Practices

Installing a new Mopar oil filter correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. Here’s a detailed guide to avoid common mistakes:

Tools You’ll Need:

  • New Mopar oil filter (correct part number for your vehicle).

  • Socket wrench or oil filter wrench (size depends on the filter; most Mopar filters use a 3-3/8” or 3-1/2” diameter).

  • Funnel.

  • Gloves and safety glasses.

  • Rags or shop towels.

Steps:

  1. ​Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for 5-10 minutes to thin the oil, making it easier to drain. Turn off the engine and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow oil to settle.

  2. ​Drain the Old Oil: Locate the oil pan drain plug, position a drain pan underneath, and remove the plug. Let the oil drain completely (this takes 10-15 minutes).

  3. ​Remove the Old Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to grip the filter. Turn it counterclockwise until it loosens. Be prepared for residual oil to spill—have rags handy. Once loose, unscrew it by hand and inspect the gasket. If it’s stuck to the engine block, gently pry it off with a plastic scraper (avoid metal tools that could scratch the surface).

  4. ​Clean the Mounting Surface: Wipe the engine block where the filter mounts with a rag. Check for any debris or old gasket material—this ensures a tight seal for the new filter.

  5. ​Apply a Thin Layer of Oil to the New Gasket: Dab a small amount of fresh motor oil on the rubber gasket of the new Mopar filter. This helps it seal properly and makes future removal easier.

  6. ​Install the New Filter: Screw the filter onto the mount by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block. Then, tighten it an additional ¾ to 1 full turn. Do not overtighten—this can damage the gasket or filter housing, leading to leaks.

  7. ​Reinstall the Drain Plug: Replace the drain plug with a new washer (if required) and tighten it to the manufacturer’s torque specification (usually 20-30 ft-lbs).

  8. ​Add New Oil: Use a funnel to pour in the recommended type and amount of Mopar motor oil (check your owner’s manual—for example, a 2023 Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI needs 7 quarts of 5W-20 oil).

  9. ​Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes. Inspect the filter and drain plug for leaks. If everything looks good, top off the oil if needed.

Maintaining Your Mopar Oil Filter: Tips for Longevity

A Mopar oil filter is designed to last between 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. To maximize its lifespan and effectiveness:

  • ​Follow Your Oil Change Schedule: Even if you use synthetic oil, changing the filter with every oil change prevents it from becoming saturated with contaminants. Mopar recommends checking the filter during routine oil changes for signs of clogging or damage.

  • ​Inspect After Off-Road or Towing: If you frequently drive on dirt roads, tow heavy loads, or operate in dusty environments, your filter will accumulate contaminants faster. Consider changing it every 5,000 miles in these conditions.

  • ​Avoid Over-Tightening: As mentioned earlier, overtightening can crack the filter housing or damage the gasket, leading to leaks. Hand-tighten plus a ¾ turn is sufficient.

  • ​Store Filters Properly: If you buy in bulk, store Mopar filters in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures can degrade the rubber gasket over time.

Common Problems with Mopar Oil Filters (and How to Fix Them)

Even high-quality filters can develop issues if not installed or maintained correctly. Here are the most common problems and solutions:

1. Oil Leaks

​Cause: Overtightening, damaged gasket, or a dirty mounting surface.

​Fix: Replace the filter with a new one, ensuring the mounting surface is clean and tightening only ¾ to 1 turn past hand-tight. If leaks persist, check the drain plug or oil pan gasket.

2. Reduced Oil Pressure

​Cause: A clogged filter that’s forcing oil through the bypass valve too early, or a faulty bypass valve.

​Fix: Replace the filter and check the oil pressure gauge. If pressure remains low, have a mechanic inspect the oil pump or engine bearings.

3. Engine Noise at Startup

​Cause: A dried-out anti-drainback valve, causing oil to drain from the filter overnight.

​Fix: Install a new Mopar filter with a high-quality silicone anti-drainback valve. This issue is more common with older or aftermarket filters.

Mopar Oil Filters vs. Aftermarket: When to Stick with OE

While third-party filters can be cheaper, there are scenarios where Mopar is the only safe choice:

  • ​New or Under-Warranty Vehicles: To protect your warranty, use Mopar filters.

  • ​High-Performance Engines: Vehicles with turbochargers, superchargers, or modified engines generate more contaminants and require precise filtration.

  • ​Extreme Climates: In dusty deserts or frigid winters, Mopar’s robust construction ensures reliability.

For older vehicles with no warranty, some high-quality aftermarket filters (like those from Bosch or Wix) may work—but always verify compatibility and test results before switching.

Final Thoughts: Investing in Your Engine’s Health

Your Mopar engine oil filter is a small part with a big job. By choosing the right Mopar filter, installing it correctly, and maintaining it properly, you’ll protect your engine from costly damage, improve fuel efficiency, and extend its lifespan. Whether you’re commuting daily or tackling off-road adventures, a reliable oil filter ensures your vehicle delivers the performance and reliability you expect from Mopar.

When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or a certified Mopar technician—your engine will thank you.

BACK