Original GM Oil Filters

What Do Oil Filters Do?

They capture infiltrates in motor oil, a lot like air filters do for engines and HVAC systems and fuel filters do for the fuel system. More specifically, they trap the byproducts of the oil's production process, plus the pollution that builds up during engine parts lubrication. Doing so helps protect the oil pump, its bearings, and other components, prolonging their lives.

Where is the Oil Filter Located?

Underneath the engine compartment, most of the time, as far as accessibility goes. To get to it, though, you may have to pull out an undertray. Some models make it so you can access it from above the bay, though. For the final word on where to find the one in your vehicle, check your owner's manual.

What are the Parts of an Oil Filter?

The filter medium itself, plus a housing and a gasket. You can usually find the housing right next to the engine cover in the engine bay; it's what holds the filter and connects it to the engine. The gasket is a rubber seal that helps close off the filter and prevent oil leaks.

When Do You Change Oil Filters?

Regularly -- that means every 4,800 kilometers or 3 months, during an oil change, or during every other one, according to most owner's manuals. Otherwise, when the media clogs or wears out from use and age. Replace the housing gaskets, however, if they become brittle and crack, as oil will invariably start to leak from them. In such a case, oil pressure loss and an engine oil warning lighting up the dash will tell you it's time. (Both conditions will also most likely cause engine performance problems.)

How Do You Tell Which Oil Filter Fits Your Vehicle?

By determining what thread and gasket sizes it requires. You can find this info in your owner's manual's maintenance schedule. It's critical to install a filter that fits your vehicle. One that's the wrong size can cause oil leakage, much like a bad housing gasket can. It can also cause the filter to detach from the oil pump, and that usually results in serious (and expensive) engine damage.

Why Buy a Genuine OEM Oil Filter?

It'll be the correct size for the make and model you drive, right off the shelf (as will a factory housing and brand-name gaskets). That's compatibility guaranteed.

Where Can I Order a Replacement Oil Filter?

Online, at our auto parts store. The same goes for oil filter housings and gaskets. Just browse our catalog by make, model, and year to find what you need more easily. Buy now, and we'll ship directly to your door; you'll be swapping out the old for the new in no time.