It is common knowledge among car owners that having your car’s oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles can improve gas mileage and keep your engine running for a long time. But did you know changing your oil filter can also help your car’s health?
Changing your oil filter regularly stops dirt and grime from leaking into your engine causing engine failures. In the long term, a high-quality oil filter is an investment in keeping your engine oil and car clean.
This article is dedicated to comparing FRAM vs Mobil 1 oil filters. We will compare them to several factors to help you decide which is best. Check out this Mobil 1 and FRAM oil filter comparison table below:
| Factors | FRAM Oil Filter | Mobil 1 Oil Filter |
| Filtration Efficiency | 99%+ at 20 microns | 99% at 30 microns |
| Durability | Can withstand pressure up to 300 psi | Can withstand up to 615 psi |
| Longevity | 3,000-7,500 miles | 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Price | $11 | $6-$8 |
Table of Contents
What is an Oil Filter?
The primary use of an oil filter is to remove waste and capture any debris or dirt mixed into your engine oil. It filters any harmful junk that may cause your engine and engine oil to degrade.
Here are the parts your oil filter has that allow it to work:
1. Tapping Plate
This is the major source of flow for your engine oil. The tapping plate edge has several small holes allowing oil to flow freely. The Tapping plate is attached to the engine through the threaded center hole, which is also where it exits.
2. Anti-drain back Valve
This rubber valve closes when your engine is turned off to ensure the oil does not reach the filter.
3. Filter Medium
The filter medium comprises microscopic cellulose fibers to create a porous filter medium. Synthetic fibers like polyester and glass improve durability and effectiveness. Resin is also added to rigidity and strength.
4. Center Steel Tube
The center steel tube is important in the oil filter’s structure. It provides support and allows the filtered oil to return to the engine.
5. Relief Valve
The relief valve prevents a cold engine from starving by letting unfiltered oil into the center tube.
What are Mobil 1 Oil Filters?
High-performance lubricants are a trademark of the Mobil 1 brand, and their oil filters are no exception. Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil filters use synthetic mix media giving your car better performance and longer engine life.
Mobile 1 offers a 1-year warranty for their oil filters which is ideal for long-lasting protection. When combined with their Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Mobil 1 Oil Filters can increase their performance.
What Are FRAM Oil Filters?
FRAM is one of the top brands of oil filters in the USA. It continues to produce and sell a wide range of high-quality oil, air, fuel filters, and other vehicle accessories.
If you are looking for the best performance and engine protectionFRAM Ultra Synthetic oil filters offer up to 20,000 miles of protection and 99% filtering efficacy.
Difference Between Oil Filters
1. Filtration Efficiency
One of the main differences between Fram and Mobil 1 oil filters is their filtration efficiency. Filter efficiency measures a filter’s capacity to capture and hold particles of a particular size.
Particulate sizes are measured in Microns which is precisely a millionth of a meter.
- FRAM oil filters are 99%+ efficient for particles greater than 20 microns.
- While Mobil 1 oil filters have a 99% efficiency rating for particles greater than 30 microns.
While Mobil 1 filters do a good job of filtering out dirt and contaminants, FRAM oil filters are designed to capture even the smallest particles, ensuring that your engine remains clean and efficient.
2. Build
Another difference between Fram and Mobil 1 oil filters is their construction.
- FRAM oil filter walls include O-rings and gaskets that are designed to withstand pressures of up to three times what a typical car engine can generate.
- Mobil 1 oil filters, however, have an amazing build that can withstand up to 615 psi or nine times the typical engine operating pressure.
3. Longevity
An important factor to consider when choosing your oil filter is how long they last. Various oil filters are available from Mobil 1 and Fram, all of which are intended to last for different lengths of time.
Mobil 1 oil filters are known for their durability and long-lasting performance when combined with their Extended Performance Engine Oil. These filters typically last for 20,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first, and are guaranteed with a warranty.
FRAM also has a decent amount of longevity. One of their more expensive options, the FRAM titanium oil filter can last for up to 20,000 miles while Extra Guard, the cheapest option lasts for 3,000 to 5,000 miles which is about the same as a Mobil 1 oil filter with any other oil.
4. Price
Fram oil filters are generally more affordable than Mobil 1 oil filters. This is because Fram is a more budget-friendly brand, while Mobil 1 is a premium brand that offers advanced features and technology.
The Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil Filter can go up to $11 while most FRAM filters go about $6-$8 on Amazon.
Tips to Find the Right Oil Filter for You
Finding the right engine oil filter for your car is an essential part of routine maintenance. Here are some tips to help you find the right oil filter for your needs:
1. Look up your owner’s manual
Your car’s manual will have detailed information on the type of oil filter recommended for your specific make and model. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure you get the right oil filter for your vehicle.
2. Match the filter to your Driving Style
Consider your driving habits when selecting an oil filter. If you drive in dusty or dirty conditions, you may need a filter with a higher filtration rating.
If you drive in extreme temperatures, you may need a filter designed to perform well in those conditions. Installing a wrong filter may break its bypass valve, allowing unfiltered oil to enter your engine.
3. Use Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oils are made from refined petroleum. Unlike mineral oil which is derived from crude petroleum, fully synthetic oils provide better performance for your vehicle.
By incorporating additives into synthetic oils, they become much more viscous, better at resisting heat and cleaning your engine, and provide much better lubrication.
Pros and Cons
Now that we have a good idea about Fram and Mobil 1 oil filters let’s check out this breakdown of the pros and cons of each product.
FRAM
- 99+% Efficient at 20 microns
- Can last up to 20,000 miles
- Cheaper compared to Mobil
- Weaker build with only 3x engine pressure
- No warranty
Mobil 1
- Strong build that can withstand up to 9x engine pressure
- Can last up to 20,000 miles or 1 year with a warranty.
- Less efficient at 99% but only at 30 microns
- Is more expensive compared to FRAM.
FAQ
How often should I change my oil filter?
Following the manufacturer’s suggested oil change interval is recommended. This is typically every 5,000 miles. Make sure to check your car’s manual to know exactly when to change your oil filters for your specific model.
Can I use any type of oil filter on my car?
Technically yes. Most cars use a spin-on cartridge or full-flow oil filter. While cartridge filters are harder to replace than spin-on, there are after-market adaptors in the market.
What happens if I don’t change my oil filter?
If you do not change your oil filter in the recommended time it can cause a build-up of particles that can clog your filter. Clogged filters can cause your engine to lose lubrication which can shorten its lifespan.
Who makes FRAM motor oil filters?
Fram filters are made in Michigan, Kentucky, and Ohio. The FRAM company was recently bought by the Trico Group in 2019.
What is wrong with FRAM oil filters?
FRAM oil filters have been reported not to have strong construction, and their end caps are not as strong compared to other brands.
However, don’t fret if you ask yourself “What’s wrong with FRAM oil filters?” FRAM oil filter end caps are made of impregnated resin which bonds better to the paper filter media.
Conclusion
As we come to a close on this article about FRAM vs Mobil 1 oil filter, we know you have a question in mind. So which is better? FRAM synthetic oil vs Mobil 1 oil filter?
Both the FRAM and Mobil 1 have their strengths and weaknesses. FRAM prides itself on being the cheaper option with a weaker build but with slightly better filtration.
Mobil 1, on the other hand, is a bit more expensive but with a better build and slightly less filtration for smaller particles.
As both brands have the same amount of longevity, the race is a close one. At the end of the day, the choice should depend on the needs of your vehicle and the size of your budget.
Working with Vernon and Ryley has been a great experience for me. Together with the rest of the team, I hope to create reliable and useful information for our readers, no matter where they are and their experience with car maintenance.
