Oil filters are like the unsung heroes of your car’s engine. They work hard to keep your engine oil clean, allowing your vehicle to purr like a kitten instead of rumbling like an old tractor. But not all oil filters are created equal. Some, unfortunately, just don’t cut it. Literally. Mechanics have been slicing them open to see what’s inside, and let me tell you, some of the results are a bit shocking. Here are five oil filters that didn’t pass the cut-open test with flying colors.
1. FRAM Extra Guard PH3614
FRAM is a name you might recognize—it’s everywhere. But when mechanics cut open the Extra Guard PH3614, they found that it had some pretty serious shortcomings. The filter media was found to be thin and flimsy, which is just not what you want when your engine is relying on it for protection. Think of it like wearing a raincoat that’s really just a thin plastic bag. Sure, it’s better than nothing, but you’ll be soaked in no time!
The adhesive used to hold the filter media together was also underwhelming. Some mechanics noted that it didn’t hold up well, leading to the potential for unfiltered oil to pass through. That’s like trying to bake a cake without the right ingredients—things just won’t turn out as expected. In the world of oil filters, this one’s a bit of a letdown.
2. STP S10060
Another contender in the “failed cut-open test” category is the STP S10060. While it may seem like a budget-friendly option, the results were less than stellar. Mechanics found that the internal structure was lacking, with poor filtration capabilities. You want your oil filter to catch all those nasty little particles floating around in your engine oil, and this one just didn’t do the job.
Plus, the bypass valve didn’t function as well as it should’ve. Essentially, that means if the filter clogs up, the oil can bypass it entirely, which is like having a lifeguard on duty who’s busy scrolling through their phone instead of watching the pool. Yikes! If you’re serious about keeping your engine in tip-top shape, it might be best to steer clear of this one.
3. ACDelco Professional PF46
ACDelco is often praised for their quality, but the Professional PF46 didn’t impress mechanics during their cut-open tests. Although it’s marketed as a high-performance filter, the internal construction left much to be desired. The filter media was found to be less effective than expected, and a few mechanics raised concerns about its durability.
Think of it like buying a fancy pair of shoes that look great but fall apart after just a few wears. You want something that’s going to last, and this filter just doesn’t deliver. It’s a bit of a letdown when you consider the reputation that ACDelco has built over the years. Sometimes, even the big names can miss the mark.
4. Duralast Gold DF120
Now, Duralast Gold is often a go-to for many DIY mechanics, but the DF120 model didn’t fare well under scrutiny. Mechanics found that the filter media was insufficient to handle the demands of modern engines, which can be a real bummer. It’s like trying to run a marathon in flip-flops—not exactly ideal for endurance!
One of the more concerning issues was the lack of proper sealing. A poorly sealed filter can lead to leaks, and nobody wants that mess in their engine bay. It’s a classic case of “you get what you pay for.” If you’re looking for reliability, this one might not be your best bet.
5. Bosch 3300 Premium Oil Filter
Lastly, we have the Bosch 3300 Premium Oil Filter. Now, Bosch usually has a solid reputation, but this particular model didn’t impress during the cut-open tests. Mechanics noted that the filter media was not only flimsy but also had inconsistent pleats, which can lead to uneven filtration. Imagine trying to filter your morning coffee with a crumpled-up napkin—definitely not the best idea!
Additionally, some mechanics found that the anti-drainback valve wasn’t functioning properly. This valve is crucial because it keeps oil in the filter when your engine is off. If it fails, you might end up with a dry start every time you crank the engine, which isn’t ideal for longevity. So, while Bosch usually hits the mark, this was a swing and a miss.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right oil filter is more important than you might think. It’s not just about saving a few bucks but ensuring the longevity and health of your engine. While these five filters didn’t pass the cut-open tests, they serve as reminders that not everything on the shelf is worth your hard-earned cash.
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