Just a question. Is there a noticeable difference in filter capacity from one brand to another? Check a couple of web sites but nothing on capacity, just flow gpm.

 

Compare size of the filter body. Most manufacturer web site will give you dimensions of the filter. For the most part if it is the correct filter for the application it will not vary by much from one filter to another. In all honestly most filters are made buy one of one 2-3 major filter manufacturers in the US.

Your best bet is to pick the quality filter you like and then fill the car to capacity according to the owners manual. Run the car for a few min to let the media in the filter saturate and then shut it off for about 15 min. Che your level and see where you are at. I bet you will be right on the money, but if not you can adjust from there. You never want to be way over full or way under full but being just under or just over the line will not hurt anything at all.

I always run my cars just a little overfull, but thats just me. HAHA I have also been known to fill them to the nearest quart. My Altima takes 4.5 buy the book, but it always just gets 5...

 

One of the things you will find is Some of the Bargain Filters don't have the correct Drainback Valve and you may notice Lifter tap on a cold start. It accelerates wear as well.

Two Filters the same size may hold Different amounts of oil because one has more Filter material inside. If you ever get a chance hold a Ford Racing Filter in one hand and the same Motorcraft application in the other. It is a much noticible weight difference. Or do the Same with a Bargain Brand and a Motorcraft. It's Like potato chips. A lot of time you get a huge bag of Air.

KC