Filters

chad_55 · #1 04-23-2008, 11:55 AM

There seems to be a lot of different opinions on what automotive filters are the best to improve gas mileage. I use STP brand oil & air filters from AutoZone. Can I get some opinions on this?

PaleMelanesian · #2 04-23-2008, 11:58 AM

I highly doubt an oil filter will improve or harm MPG. The difference will be how well they filter. I use SuperTech.

Air filters don't really matter if you're driving for efficiency. The surface area is more than adequate to flow all the air we need. Standard paper filters clean the air the best, proven by multiple lab tests.

JusBringIt · #3 04-23-2008, 12:03 PM

stay away from fram oil filters, everything else should be good. for air filters, I use a washable/reusable filter that makes it easier to breathe, whether you choose warm or cold, that is up to you.

xcel · #4 04-23-2008, 12:10 PM

Hi Chad:

___Just like Andrew, a SuperTech oil filter because it is HQ and inexpensive (adds nothing to FE) and a std. Fram air filter. Just make sure the Air filter is not dirty (yearly replacement) and you have maxxed your FE where that item is concerned.

___Good Luck

___Wayne

PaleMelanesian · #5 04-23-2008, 12:14 PM

Bobistheoilguy (BITOG) did a comprehensive air filter test. Here it is. His findings are that even the highest-flow (K&N) flows barely better than the lowest-flow paper filter. Also, the dirt collected downstream of all the high-flow filters is scary! It's a long read, but good information.

MetroMPG tested K&N vs oem paper for mileage. Here. OEM actually gave him better mpg.

Also, according to this post at BITOG, oil filters with brands STP, Supertech, mobil 1 and others are all from the same maker. Pick a cheap one from the list.

Douglas in CT · #6 04-23-2008, 06:03 PM

According to my research on Oil Filters:
- Buy WIX Oil filters

NOTE:
WIX Oil Filters are also Privately Labeled for NAPA as NAPA GOLD.

kwj · #7 04-26-2008, 11:35 AM

The best filters are the ones you replace frequently. Air filters probably don't get changed as often as recommended. As to MPG increases, the oil you use probably has more of an effect than the filter you use. A good filter will keep your engine oil cleaner to a point, but typical motor oils get inundated with things a filter won't remove, so change the oil as recommended. Oil Filters are inexpensive, change them at each oil change. As to brand, everyone has an opinion, but some are really better than others. Choose ones that filter out smaller particles. I've used Fram filters for many years. They've given me good service, as all my vehicles see in excess of 150,000 miles and still pass hydrocarbon emissions tests

phoebeisis · #8 04-26-2008, 11:49 AM

I'm a sucker for the Mobil One filters even though I'm still pissed at Mobil for changing to a not really synthetic cheapo oil in their Mobil I.I still use Mobil I, but I'm still pissed at them;I hold a grudge. Pep Boys offers a DIY special 5 qts Mobil I + filter for $30-not bad.
Charlie