12 What oil filter should I use on my VW?
Description
This article is from the VW Technical FAQ, by with numerous contributions by Jan Vandenbrande others.
12 What oil filter should I use on my VW?
A: VW's, MANN's or Bosch (OEM). FRAM (PH2870) or other brands do NOT have the
same valving (backflow, bypass), valving rates, rigidity of construction,
and quality. The other brands will work ok, but you may be running a risk.
Several known cases of Corrado G60s blowing FRAM filters open. Some known
cases of Porsches ruining engines with FRAM filters due to inadequate
gaskets.
MANN filters are also available from Beck Arnley World Parts, and are
packaged under that brand, so they are much cheaper than the factory
filters.
The function of the bypass valve is to bypass the oil filter if the filter
is clogged or the oil is too viscous during a cold start. Dirty oil is
better than NO oil.
The anti-backflow valve prevents the oil from draining out of the engine
block into the oil pan. This means that oil will be available almost
instantaneously at a start up, which is also when the majority of wear
occurs (SLICK 50 is not lying about that). The VR6 engines have this valve
build into the engine!
[Jan: Compared to the SLC oil filters (~15-20US$), the regular filters now
seem cheap (~4-6US$)]
NOTE: Newer VWs DO NOT use the same filters as before. The G60 filter is
recognizable by the "nut" welded on the bottom, the SLC does NOT use a
filter but a replaceable insert (two kinds available, a short and a long
one, measure before you buy).
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