Filters clean air, oil, fuel and transmission fluid of contaminants, protecting the engine, the transmission and the occupants. They are service items replaced at regular intervals. This category contains aftermarket filters for American vehicles.
In this guide: Air filters, Automatic transmission filters, Cabin air filters, Fuel filters, Oil filters.
Air filters
What it is: The filter cleans the air drawn into the engine of dust and sand, which would act like an abrasive on the pistons, rings and turbocharger.
Where it is fitted: In the air filter box at the start of the intake system in the engine bay.
Signs of wear: A clogged filter reduces power and increases fuel consumption; replace it per the service schedule or sooner in dusty conditions.
Did you know: When replacing it, also clean the inside of the box and make sure the filter seats properly, because air that bypasses the filter carries dust straight into the engine.
Automatic transmission filters
What it is: The filter traps metal particles and friction material circulating in the automatic transmission fluid. It protects the valves of the valve body that controls shifting.
Where it is fitted: Inside the transmission, in the oil pan, at the fluid pump inlet.
Signs of wear: A clogged filter causes harsh shifts, delayed engagement and overheating; it is replaced together with the transmission fluid.
Did you know: On the ZF 8-speed automatics used in Jeep and RAM vehicles, among others, the filter is integrated into the plastic oil pan and the two are replaced together.
Shop — Automatic transmission filters
Cabin air filters
What it is: The filter cleans the air entering the cabin through ventilation and A/C of dust, pollen and pollutants; activated carbon versions also reduce odours.
Where it is fitted: In the ventilation duct, usually behind the glovebox or under the cowl.
Signs of wear: A clogged filter weakens airflow, encourages window fogging and bad smells; it is usually replaced once a year.
Did you know: When fitting, note the airflow direction arrow on the filter frame, because a filter installed backwards works less well.
Fuel filters
What it is: The filter traps contaminants and, on diesels, also water before the fuel reaches the high-pressure pump and injectors.
Where it is fitted: Under the vehicle along the fuel line, in the engine bay (especially on diesels) or inside the pump module in the tank.
Signs of wear: A clogged filter causes loss of power, stumbling under load and hard starting; on a diesel it is replaced regularly per the service schedule.
Did you know: On many American gasoline vehicles the filter is part of the in-tank pump module with no separate filter to replace, while on diesels the water separator should be drained regularly.
Oil filters
What it is: The filter traps metal particles, soot and other contaminants in the engine oil, protecting the bearings, camshafts and turbocharger.
Where it is fitted: On the engine: as a spin-on filter screwed into the block or as a cartridge in a filter housing.
Signs of wear: It is replaced at every oil change; a clogged filter can reduce lubrication.
Did you know: Lightly oil the seal of a spin-on filter before fitting and tighten it by hand rather than cranking it down with a wrench.
Where to next
- Catalogue: filters — choose your make, model and generation.
- Parts by VIN — we will check the fit for your car.
- Parts guide — other systems.
We sell aftermarket replacement parts, not genuine parts from vehicle manufacturers. Descriptions are general — check the fit for your vehicle by OEM number or VIN.