Just did the first oil change on my Mazda after the service plan they gave me expired. Found that they used a Fram Extra Guard filter instead of an OEM/Mazda factory filter. I'm not too bothered by this as the plan called for changes every 5K, but I am surprised that a Fram would be cheaper than OEM for a dealer. Or is this common?
Mazda dealer using Fram instead of OEM oil filter
- Thread starter jdeare
- Start date
- Status
generally dealers are ran/owned by independents so its not uncommon for them to stock products from the lowest bidder.
Because of the way the oil drain is located, the filter was covered with oil when it came out. But it didn't look old or anything (the filter condition would be preserved on this car because there is a plastic underbody shield that covers the filter). But, that doesn't really concern me, I would use the same kind of filter for 5K myself. I was more intrigued that they would use a Fram vs a jobber filter like Motomaster or something (or, ideally, OEM).
What kind of oil filter and oil did you replace it with?
Mazda filters are usually made by Tokyo Roki and are top quality. It wouldn't surprise me if the Fram Extra Guards are cheaper given their cheaper construction. They are generally fine but not as good as the OEM filters.
Also some Mazda Skyactiv engines have a specific high flow filter and I don't know if the Fram filters meet this.
Also some Mazda Skyactiv engines have a specific high flow filter and I don't know if the Fram filters meet this.
If I was paying dealer price, I want OEM filters.
The only time we use non OEM filters at my work is when it is a competitive brand that there is no Motorcraft filter for that application. Mazda's always get Mazda filters, unless we goofed in parts and then we use a Motorcraft in its place.
- Status
