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Why do Fram Filters have such a bad rep?

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5.8K views 85 replies 47 participants last post by  CamdensDad  
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#1 ·
I'm not going to install one in my Jetta. I prefer OEM for the piece of mind, but Canadian Tire gave me a free FRAM oil filter yesterday with my 4L bottle purchase of GTX 20W-50.
So that got me thinking... why does FRAM oil filters have such a bad rep? I did a search and members on this forum (and others) say the filters are glued together so they aren't dependable. Also lots of members where sayings that FRAM destroyed their engine, caused presuure drop, etc.
What about the OEM? How is it constructed? What makes it so much superior?I also read someone stating that the FRAM was "missing a valve." No other details was provide. Is this true?
One final thing, if Fram does have such a bad rep, why are they so popular and many manufactures rebranding their product? Even HONDA OEM is a rebranded FRAM extra guard.
Is Fram crap, or just poor marketing, a bad rep and lots of opinion/personal preference?
Modified by majesus at 8:48 AM 4-16-2007


Modified by majesus at 8:55 AM 4-16-2007
 
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#3 ·
Re: Why do Fram Filters have such a bad rep? (vuu16v)

The valving is incorrect, the filter media isn't nearly as good and they are just plain garbage.
We crush oil filters at my shop. Frams crush like butter while Mahle & Mann filters provide substantially more resistance to the crushing machine. I've also done cross section cuts on both styles of filters. Mann & Mahle filters contain alot more trapped particles every time. Whenever we get a VW in with an oil light on and a Fram or Jiffy lube oil filter installed, first thing I sell is an oil change. 9/10 Times, it fixes it. Frams just plain suck.
 
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#4 ·
Re: Why do Fram Filters have such a bad rep? (vuu16v)

I always use Bosch in mine. From what I heard is Fram doesn't have the anti-dran valve like Bosch does.
Features* Benefits


Exclusive FILTECH media technology Screens out more harmful contaminants for greater engine protection

Stronger steel baseplates and housings Prevent warpage, leaks and poor fit

Silicone anti-drain back valve Ensures a supply of clean oil when you start your car

High lubricity gasket design Provides a tight seal, yet easy removal

Double-locked rolled seam Forms a leak free canister
 
#8 ·
Re: Why do Fram Filters have such a bad rep? (dubbin_87)

I once owned a '92 Jetta ECOdiesel, whose previous owner worked for Allied Signal, the company that makes FRAM filters. Even he did not use FRAM! He only used VW OEM oil filters.
Also be warned that several companies sell repackaged FRAM filters, including STP and Wal-Mart's house brand "SuperTech". These filters are equally as bad as FRAM!
 
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#16 ·
Re: (jetmk2)

Quote, originally posted by jetmk2 »
What about purolator filters?I only use their Pureone filter and haven't had any problems so far.
Image

Don't listen to the drunk newbie. Purolator Pureone's are some of the best filters on the market. Period. http://****************.com/smile/emthup.gif
 
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#17 ·
Re: (vuu16v)

Quote, originally posted by vuu16v »

Don't listen to the drunk newbie. Purolator Pureone's are some of the best filters on the market. Period. http://****************.com/smile/emthup.gif

Yeah, I have no clue. No experience. Brand new to the industry. Ignore me. I am a drunk newbie. Thanks for clearing that up.
 
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#18 ·
Re: (IDrankBeer)

Quote, originally posted by IDrankBeer »

Yeah, I have no clue. No experience. Brand new to the industry. Ignore me. I am a drunk newbie. Thanks for clearing that up.

Well then, quit posting BS that you obviously think is right. http://****************.com/smile/emthup.gif
 
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#20 ·
Re: Why do Fram Filters have such a bad rep? (majesus)

Quote, originally posted by majesus »
Even HONDA OEM is a rebranded FRAM extra guard.

They rebrand Nippon filters. I know this is a fact because I have dealt with a Honda Rep on this issue, and now I get the Nippon filters because all they do is stamp their logo on it.
 
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#22 ·
Re: (RandomDubber)

Quote, originally posted by RandomDubber »
guys listen to idrankbeer, he works at vw and deals with this **** everyday. he's helped more people then you have posts...

But an idiot is an idiot. I don't care where they work. http://****************.com/smile/emthup.gif
And I've owned a MKII 16v since this boy was 7 years old. Yeah, I think I'll keep ignoring his "advice", thanks.
Image
 
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#24 ·
Re: (vuu16v)

Quote, originally posted by vuu16v »
But an idiot is an idiot. I don't care where they work. http://****************.com/smile/emthup.gif

Proof? Any of it? You keep calling me an idiot "Newbie". I really don't care at all. But you have no base of this judgment. Do you really have nothing better to do than follow me around and contradict my posts?
 
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