I hope this isn't a repost or anything.
Noticed this only because I got a new order of fram ultra filters to refill stock.

When did they change from 15 to 20k?
Anything changed in the filter at all, does it mean I can use my old batch up to 20k miles?

Got this early October

I asked the same question a few months back when the change (from 15 to 20K recommendation) occurred and I was told that the filter has NOT changed...only the recommendation because Fram was conservative with a 15K recommendation.

Recommendations don't mean anything. The warranty/guarantee is what counts.
Fram Warranty here
http://www.fram.com/media/62425/2015_FramWarranty_EN.pdf

Yup, the 15k to 20k change was nothing to do with any changes, just further testing showed that 15k was conservative.

From what I have seen, an Ultra could be used almost indefinitely on a clean running engine.

If I drove more, I may try one for a 30k run, but that would take me ~4 years at my current driving (plus I have a bunch of other clearance filters to use up first).

Fram Ultra can go 3 OCI's and 20K miles.

I just installed one on my mom's car, she does 4K miles per year so this will be on her car for 5 years.

Just make sure you give the filter a twist on every OCI or you'll need tools to remove it. My CRV filter is a pain to reach and even for 1 year and 24k km, I've had to use a strap wrench to get it off if I forgot to loosen and tighten it on the middle change.

Mobil did the same thing with their filters - appended A to the model numbers and upped it to 20k miles. Filters look and feel identical.

There must be a difference in the media between the "A suffix" and non-A suffix Mobil 1 filters. Wonder if they just put more media in the A suffix filters to increase the holding capacity. Part numbers typically don't change unless there is actually a difference in configuration.

Are you guys using the filter for multiple OCIs due to
- laziness
- convenience
- cost savings?

I guess I don’t see the point when filters are so cheap and engines are not.

Cost savings and some cars oil filter removal makes a big mess.

I had a Mobil 1 oil filter on my dad's Honda for 5 years and 15K miles.
Doom and gloom of filter getting clogged is hog wash.

Iffy lube started it wil the 3000 mile oil / filter change. not based on science

+1

Fram and Purolator are heavy, very heavy, on the box marketing. Who can attract the shopper to put the box in their cart, wins. Have to take the marketing as such, sales hype.
Cut open filter and look at it. If think it's OK to run longer do it, if not don't do it according to personal preference. As far as I know freedom of preference is still allowed.

What about time wise will a Fram Ultra media start to break down or fall apart from hot and cold cycles or fuel in the oil over time? Is it recommended for more then a year in service?