Mopar Oil Filter: Everything You Need to Know for Optimal Engine Protection​

2025-10-14

If you own a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle, understanding the role of your Mopar oil filter is non-negotiable for maintaining engine health, performance, and longevity. Mopar, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ (FCA) original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts brand, designs its oil filters specifically to work in harmony with your vehicle’s engine, ensuring contaminants are trapped before they can cause wear, overheating, or costly damage. Whether you’re a DIY mechanic or rely on professional service, this guide will break down why Mopar oil filters matter, how to choose the right one, installation best practices, and common pitfalls to avoid—all grounded in real-world engineering and user experience.

What Is a Mopar Oil Filter, and How Does It Work?

At its core, a Mopar oil filter is a small but critical component in your vehicle’s lubrication system. Its primary job is to remove contaminants from engine oil, such as dirt, metal shavings, soot, and sludge, before the oil circulates through the engine. Over time, these particles can scratch bearing surfaces, clog oil passages, and reduce lubrication efficiency—leading to accelerated engine wear or even failure.

Mopar oil filters are engineered with three key layers of protection:

  1. ​Filter Media: A synthetic or cellulose blend that captures particles as small as 20 microns (about the thickness of a human hair). Mopar’s proprietary designs often use multi-layered media to balance flow rate with filtration precision.

  2. ​Anti-Drainback Valve: A rubber or silicone flap that prevents oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off. This ensures instant oil pressure when you start the vehicle, reducing startup wear—a critical factor for engines with tight tolerances, like many modern Mopar powertrains.

  3. ​Relief Valve: A safety feature that opens if the filter becomes clogged (due to extreme contamination or infrequent changes). This allows unfiltered oil to bypass the filter temporarily, preventing oil starvation while alerting you to service the filter.

Why Choose a Mopar Oil Filter Over Aftermarket Options?

With countless aftermarket oil filters on the market, it’s tempting to opt for a cheaper alternative. However, Mopar’s OEM design offers unique advantages that generic filters often can’t match:

1. Precision Fit and Compatibility

Mopar filters are engineered to match the exact dimensions, thread size, and gasket type of your vehicle’s oil filter housing. Aftermarket brands may claim “universal fit,” but even minor variations—such as a gasket that doesn’t seal properly or a threads-per-inch (TPI) mismatch—can lead to leaks, reduced filtration efficiency, or even damage to the engine block. For example, a 2022 Jeep Wrangler 3.6L Pentastar engine requires a filter with a specific 3/4"-16 thread and 16mm flange diameter; Mopar’s part #05197724AB is calibrated for this application, whereas some aftermarket filters may use a 1/2"-20 thread, risking a poor seal.

2. Consistent Performance Under Extreme Conditions

Mopar tests its oil filters under the same rigorous conditions as the vehicles they’re designed for—from subzero winters in Minnesota to dusty desert trails in Arizona. The brand’s filters are subjected to:

  • ​Pressure Testing: To ensure they handle high oil pressures (up to 80 PSI in some performance engines) without bursting.

  • ​Contaminant Capacity: Measured by how much debris they can trap before the relief valve opens. Mopar filters often outperform generics by 15–20% in independent lab tests.

  • ​Temperature Resistance: Synthetic media in newer Mopar filters resists breakdown at high temperatures (over 300°F), a common issue with cellulose-based aftermarket filters that can clog or lose structure when hot.

3. Warranty and Support

Using a Mopar oil filter keeps your vehicle eligible for factory warranty coverage. If an engine issue arises and the repair shop finds non-OEM filters, manufacturers like FCA may deny warranty claims, arguing that improper parts caused the damage. Mopar also backs its filters with a 12-month/12,000-mile limited warranty, covering defects in materials or workmanship.

How to Identify the Right Mopar Oil Filter for Your Vehicle

With over 50 Mopar oil filter part numbers in circulation, matching the correct filter to your vehicle is crucial. Here’s how to find it:

1. Use Mopar’s Online Part Finder

Visit Mopar’s official website (www.mopar.com) and navigate to the “Parts” section. Enter your vehicle’s year, make, model, and engine type (e.g., “2020 Dodge Charger 5.7L HEMI”). The tool will generate a list of recommended filters, including part numbers, descriptions, and pricing.

2. Cross-Reference with Your Owner’s Manual

Your vehicle’s owner’s manual lists the factory-recommended oil filter part number. For example, a 2019 Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI engine specifies part #05091027AA. Always verify this number against online databases to ensure it hasn’t been superseded by a newer version (e.g., #05091027AB, which may include improved seals or media).

3. Consult a Mopar Dealer or Certified Mechanic

Dealerships and certified Mopar service centers have access to technical service bulletins (TSBs) that may recommend specific filters for certain model years or regions. For instance, some 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0L EcoDiesel models require a high-efficiency filter (#05197725AC) to handle soot from diesel combustion, a detail not always listed in generic online guides.

Step-by-Step: Installing a Mopar Oil Filter Like a Pro

Proper installation is just as important as choosing the right filter. Follow these steps to avoid leaks, under-lubrication, or premature wear:

Tools You’ll Need:

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

  • New Mopar oil filter (correct part number)

  • Funnel

  • Gloves and safety glasses

  • Shop towels or rags

  • Oil drain pan

  • Correct engine oil (check your manual for viscosity and capacity)

Installation 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 the drain pan, and remove the plug. Let the oil drain completely (10–20 minutes). Replace the drain plug with a new gasket (if needed) and tighten it to 20–25 ft-lbs (do not overtighten).

  3. ​Remove the Old Filter: Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter. Be prepared for residual oil to spill—have a rag handy. Once loose, unscrew it by hand and inspect the gasket on the old filter. If it’s stuck to the engine block, gently pry it off with a plastic scraper (avoid metal tools to prevent scratches).

  4. ​Prep the New Filter: Dip your finger in fresh oil and lubricate the gasket on the new Mopar filter. This creates a better seal and prevents the gasket from sticking or tearing during installation. Do not fill the filter with oil—this can cause leaks or air pockets.

  5. ​Install the New Filter: Screw the new filter into place by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block. Tighten it an additional ¾–1 turn. Over-tightening can damage the gasket or filter housing.

  6. ​Refill with Oil: Use a funnel to pour the recommended amount of new oil into the engine. Check the dipstick to ensure you’ve added the correct volume (most vehicles require 5–7 quarts).

  7. ​Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for 2–3 minutes. Turn off the engine and inspect the filter and drain plug for leaks. If there’s seepage, tighten the filter slightly (no more than ¼ turn).

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Mopar Oil Filters

Even with the right filter, improper maintenance can lead to problems. Here are the top errors to steer clear of:

  • ​Ignoring the Relief Valve: Some cheap aftermarket filters omit or poorly design the relief valve. If your Mopar filter’s valve is stuck closed, excess pressure can cause the filter to bulge or burst. Inspect the valve periodically during oil changes.

  • ​Overlooking the Anti-Drainback Valve: A cracked or worn anti-drainback valve means oil drains out of the filter when the engine is off. This leads to dry starts, where the engine runs without immediate oil pressure—damaging bearings and camshafts over time. If you notice delayed oil pressure on your dashboard gauge after startup, replace the filter.

  • ​Reusing Old Gaskets: Always install a new gasket with each filter. Reusing the old one can cause leaks, as the rubber degrades over time.

  • ​Skipping the Pre-Lube: Forgetting to lubricate the new filter’s gasket can result in a poor seal. Even a thin layer of fresh oil ensures the gasket conforms to the engine block.

How Often Should You Replace Your Mopar Oil Filter?

Mopar recommends changing your oil and filter every 5,000–7,500 miles under normal driving conditions (city/highway mix, moderate temperatures). However, several factors may require more frequent changes:

  • ​Severe Driving: Frequent short trips (under 10 miles), stop-and-go traffic, towing, or driving in extreme heat/cold can double the need for changes (every 3,000–5,000 miles).

  • ​Diesel Engines: Diesels produce more soot, so Mopar suggests 5,000-mile intervals for 3.0L EcoDiesel models.

  • ​Synthetic Oil: If you use synthetic oil (recommended for many Mopar engines), you can extend intervals to 7,500–10,000 miles, but always check the oil life monitor in your vehicle’s dashboard.

Spotting a Fake Mopar Oil Filter: Protect Your Engine

The rise of counterfeit auto parts has made it harder to trust third-party sellers. Fake Mopar filters often have:

  • ​Poor Packaging: Misspelled logos, blurry printing, or missing barcodes.

  • ​Inconsistent Build Quality: Loose threads, thin rubber gaskets, or a filter media that feels flimsy.

  • ​No Manufacturer Markings: Legitimate Mopar filters have a stamp or label with the part number, date code, and “Made in USA” (or other origin) marking.

To avoid fakes, buy from authorized Mopar dealers, Amazon storefronts with “Ships from and Sold by Amazon.com” badges, or reputable auto parts chains like O’Reilly or Advance Auto Parts.

Final Thoughts: Investing in Mopar Oil Filters Pays Off

A Mopar oil filter isn’t just a replaceable part—it’s a small investment in your vehicle’s longevity. By choosing OEM, you ensure a perfect fit, consistent performance, and peace of mind knowing your engine is protected against wear. Whether you’re tackling an oil change yourself or visiting a shop, taking the time to select and install the right Mopar filter will save you money on repairs down the road and keep your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram running smoothly for years.

Remember: Your engine is only as good as its lubrication system. Treat your Mopar oil filter with care, and it will return the favor.

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